The Most Famous Trickster, Ranked

Choose the trickster you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 25, 2024 07:51
Tricksters have been a part of storytelling traditions across cultures and histories, often embodying the spirit of rebellion and the power to upend the norm. Their tales illuminate the complexities of morality and inspire through their cunning and creativity. However, within the myriad tales and interpretations, certain tricksters have resonated more profoundly with audiences, shaping the cultural and literary landscapes. By organizing these colorful characters into a live ranking, every fan gets a voice in deciding which trickster stands out among the rest. This ranking not only reflects personal preferences but also creates a community dialogue around the values and attributes that define a memorable trickster. Voting in such rankings helps ensure the list remains current and reflective of the changing tastes and cultural appreciations.

Who Is the Most Famous Trickster?

  1. 1
    65
    points
    Loki

    Loki

    A Norse god known for his mischievous and complex nature, often causing trouble for gods and humans alike.
    • Origin: Norse mythology
    • Notable Acts: Shape-shifting, causing the death of Baldr
  2. 2
    40
    points
    Anansi

    Anansi

    A trickster god from West African folklore, often depicted as a spider who uses his intelligence to outsmart others.
    • Origin: Akan folklore
    • Notable Acts: Bringing stories to the world, tricking other gods
  3. 3
    24
    points
    Br'er Rabbit

    Br'er Rabbit

    A central figure in African American folktales, known for using his wits to outsmart larger animals.
    • Origin: African American folklore
    • Notable Acts: Escaping from traps, teaching moral lessons
  4. 4
    23
    points
    Coyote

    Coyote

    A key figure in Native American mythology, known for his cunning nature and for teaching through his mistakes.
    • Origin: Native American mythology
    • Notable Acts: Shape-shifting, creating the Milky Way
  5. 5
    14
    points
    Puck

    Puck

    Also known as Robin Goodfellow, a mischievous fairy from English folklore, famously depicted in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
    • Origin: English folklore
    • Notable Acts: Causing mayhem, leading people astray
  6. 6
    10
    points
    Hermes

    Hermes

    An Olympian god in Greek mythology, known for his speed, cunning, and being a messenger between the gods and humans.
    • Origin: Greek mythology
    • Notable Acts: Stealing Apollo's cattle, inventing the lyre
  7. 7
    8
    points
    Sun Wukong

    Sun Wukong

    Also known as the Monkey King, a character from the Chinese novel 'Journey to the West', known for his strength, speed, and magical powers.
    • Origin: Chinese mythology
    • Notable Acts: Rebelling against heaven, protecting the monk Xuanzang
  8. 8
    1
    points
    Eshu

    Eshu

    A trickster deity from Yoruba mythology, known for his unpredictability and for serving as an intermediary between the gods and humans.
    • Origin: Yoruba mythology
    • Notable Acts: Delivering messages, causing confusion
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Reynard the Fox

    Reynard the Fox

    A character from medieval European folklore, a red fox known for his cunning and deceitful ways.
    • Origin: Medieval European folklore
    • Notable Acts: Outsmarting nobles, escaping from tricky situations
  10. 10
    0
    points
    Till Eulenspiegel

    Till Eulenspiegel

    A trickster figure from German folklore, known for his practical jokes on both common folk and authorities.
    • Origin: German folklore
    • Notable Acts: Mocking the clergy, outwitting the greedy

Missing your favorite trickster?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous trickster. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Trickster is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3075 views
  • 185 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Trickster once every 24 hours. The rank of each Trickster is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Trickster

Loki
Rank #1 for the most famous trickster: Loki (Source)
Tricksters appear in stories from many cultures. These figures often use wit and cunning to outsmart others. They challenge norms and bend rules. Their actions can cause chaos, but they also bring change and insight.

Tricksters often have a dual nature. They can be both hero and villain. Their cleverness allows them to escape difficult situations. They might steal, deceive, or play pranks. Yet, they can also teach valuable lessons. Through their antics, they reveal truths about human nature.

These characters can take many forms. Some are animals, like foxes or spiders. Others are humans or gods. Regardless of their form, they share common traits. Tricksters are resourceful and quick-thinking. They adapt to their surroundings. They use their intelligence to navigate challenges.

In many stories, tricksters disrupt the status quo. They question authority and challenge the powerful. Their actions can expose flaws in society. By breaking rules, they highlight the need for change. This makes them important figures in folklore and mythology.

Tricksters also embody contradictions. They can be selfish and generous, foolish and wise. This complexity makes them relatable. People see parts of themselves in these characters. Tricksters remind us that life is not black and white. They show that everyone has strengths and weaknesses.

Stories about tricksters often involve humor. Their clever schemes can be amusing. This humor helps to soften their more disruptive actions. It makes their stories enjoyable and memorable. People share these tales across generations.

Despite their mischief, tricksters often face consequences. They do not always succeed in their plans. Sometimes, their tricks backfire. These moments of failure add depth to their character. They show that even the cleverest can make mistakes.

Tricksters also play a role in teaching moral lessons. Their stories can serve as warnings. They show the dangers of greed, pride, and deceit. Yet, they also highlight the value of intelligence and adaptability. Through their adventures, tricksters impart wisdom.

These characters remain popular in modern culture. They appear in books, movies, and TV shows. Their timeless appeal lies in their complexity. Tricksters are not easily defined. They challenge our understanding of right and wrong.

In essence, tricksters are agents of change. They disrupt the ordinary and provoke thought. They remind us to question and to think critically. Through their stories, we learn about ourselves and our world. Tricksters continue to captivate and inspire.

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