In Norse mythology, the giants known as the Jotnar are significant figures often in opposition to the gods of Asgard. They inhabit the realms of Jotunheim and represent raw nature, chaos, and elemental powers. The Jotnar play a central role in many myths, often embodying challenges or adversities faced by the gods. Their interactions with deities like Thor further emphasize themes of balance and conflict within the cosmos. Some Jotnar, such as Skadi and Freyja, even intermarry with gods, demonstrating the complex relationships that exist between these two groups in Norse mythology.