Loki (Comics)

Loki's History
Although he often associates with the Asgardian gods, Loki is not a god himself: he is actually a frost giant born with an unnaturally small size. The son of the king of the frost giants, Laufey, the young Loki was hidden from giant society because Laufey feared he would be mocked for his size. Laufey and many of his subjects were killed in battle with the Asgardian ruler, Odin, who found Loki and took him in as his own son, as a sign of respect to a fallen king.

Loki grew jealous of his foster brother, Thor, resenting the hero's strength and valor, which were respected by the Asgardians. Loki himself studied the arts of magic, coming to be one of the most powerful sorcerers in existence. As the god of mischief, Loki often pulled tricks on his brother or the other gods. These pranks grew more malign over time, until Loki caused the death of Balder, the cherished god of light. Loki was exiled from Asgard for this crime, imprisoned within a tree until someone shed a tear for his plight.

Thanks to more trickery, Loki eventually escaped, attempting to kill his now-hated brother and rule the gods. Loki's works were fated to lead to Ragnarok, the end of Asgard. However, again thanks to Thor's efforts, the gods were eventually restored, including Loki, who continues to wreak havoc upon both Asgard and Midgard (Earth)