Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjstr

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Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr are two magical goats in Norse mythology, meaning "teeth-barer" and "teeth-grinder." They belong to Thor, the thunder god, and possess the unique ability to regenerate overnight after being killed and cooked, provided their bones remain intact. This is exemplified when a peasant breaks one of the goat's legs, resulting in its lameness upon regeneration.

The goats are mentioned in both the Poetic Edda and Prose Edda, highlighting their significance in Norse literature. Scholars suggest they symbolize ritual sacrifice, drawing parallels with Sæhrímnir, a beast consumed daily by gods and warriors in Valhalla which regenerates each night. Similar themes appear in Scandinavian folklore, where witches magically replenish food like herring, with bone-breaking stopping the magic.

In modern culture, these goats have been adapted into various media: as Toothgnasher and Toothgrinder in Marvel Comics, featured in video games like Yu-Gi-Oh!, literature such as Rick Riordan's "Magnus Chase" series, and films. Their cultural impact is evident through their appearances in music, comics, and even video games, showcasing their enduring legacy beyond mythology.