Ogres vs. Trolls: (What's The Difference?)

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From folktales to fantasy fiction, ogres and trolls have been a part of popular culture for centuries.

Both creatures are often thought of as being similar, but in reality, there are some important distinctions between them.

Let’s take a look at what sets these two mythical creatures apart.

Though they look similar, there are some key differences between them that set them apart.

Let’s take a look at how these two creatures compare!

Ogres

In both literature and folklore, ogres are commonly portrayed as large, brutish humanoid beings with green skin.

They are often depicted as living in caves or forests and having an insatiable appetite for human flesh.

Many traditional tales feature ogres trying to capture humans or animals to eat, which is why fairy tales often involve heroes outsmarting these monsters so that they can be saved from their fate.

Trolls

Trolls, on the other hand, tend to be smaller than ogres and are usually not as violent or aggressive.

In Scandinavian folklore, trolls were often seen as magical creatures who lived in the hills or mountains and guarded bridges and caves.

Unlike ogres, trolls rarely associate with humans though they might occasionally be tricked into doing so by clever adventurers.

They can also come in different shapes and sizes depending on which culture they originate from; while some may appear human-like, others may have animal-like features like horns or claws.

It's believed that the term "troll" comes from the Old Norse word "trolldom," which means "magical practice."

This gives us some insight into why trolls tend to be more mysterious than ogres; after all, if you believe that trolls possess magical abilities, it makes sense that they would remain hidden away from human interaction!

In modern-day stories like Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings trilogy, trolls are depicted as being less intelligent than their ogre counterparts but still possessing certain magical powers.

Physical Characteristics

Ogres are large, hulking beasts known for their brute strength and intimidating size.

They often have green skin, unruly hair, and long noses. On the other hand, trolls tend to be smaller in stature and less muscular than ogres.

They typically have gray or brown skin, pointy ears, and a more human-like face than an ogre’s.

Personality Traits

Ogres tend to be solitary creatures who prefer to stay away from other people, though they will fight fiercely if provoked.

They can be somewhat lazy but are also fiercely protective of their territory.

Trolls, on the other hand, are mischievous by nature and enjoy causing trouble for humans whenever possible especially when it comes to stealing food or kidnapping children!

They also tend to travel in small groups and make their homes near rivers or bridges.

Dietary Habits

When it comes to food choices, ogres prefer meat, especially raw meat, while trolls enjoy fruits and vegetables as well as the occasional fish or bird eggs.

Ogres will also hunt animals such as deer or wild boar for food while trolls primarily feed on plants or scavenge from garbage dumps.

Conclusion

Both ogres and trolls have been popular characters in folklore for centuries but there are some key differences between these two mythical creatures that can help you tell them apart!

Ogres are larger with green skin while trolls tend to be smaller with gray or brown skin; ogres prefer meat while trolls eat fruits and vegetables; lastly, ogres tend to be solitary while trolls travel in small groups.

With this newfound knowledge about ogres vs. trolls, you can now explore these fantastic creatures with even greater appreciation!