Who Is Gjalp
Gjalp is a fearsome giantess known as one of the daughters of Geirrod. She appears in the story of Thors perilous journey to the hall of Geirrod where she and her sister attempt to destroy the god of thunder using water force and brute strength.
When Thor approaches Geirrods stronghold Gjalp causes a raging river to swell and rise against him. Later inside the hall she stands with her sister Greip ready to crush Thor between them. Her role in the tale highlights the deadly hostility held by the family of Geirrod toward the gods.
Though Gjalp does not appear widely in other myths her actions leave a strong impression revealing cunning elemental power and fierce loyalty to her father.
Character and Nature
Controller of Waters
Gjalp raises a violent river against Thor showing her power to manipulate the flow and strength of water.
Deadly Aggressor
She joins her sister in an attempt to crush Thor inside Geirrods hall a direct attack meant to end his life.
Daughter of Geirrod
Gjalp acts in support of her father playing a key role in Geirrods schemes against Thor.
Gjalp in the Tale of Thor and Geirrod
As Thor approaches the hall of Geirrod he must cross a river that Gjalp has forced to rise and crash against him. The river becomes nearly impassable and Thor must use both strength and quick thinking to survive the assault.
Once inside the hall Gjalp and her sister Greip stand on either side of the chamber. They attempt to crush Thor between them but he reacts swiftly and defeats both giantesses ending their plot.
Through these actions Gjalp represents the wild and dangerous opposition that giant clans can hold toward the gods.
Quick Facts
Symbolism
Gjalp embodies the harsh elements that giants can command. Her actions reflect raw destructive nature especially in water and sheer physical force both turned against a god of strength.