The Most Famous Trickster, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the trickster you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 12, 2024 07:17

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

61
votes
Loki

As a prominent figure in Norse mythology, Loki is known for his mischievous and cunning nature. He is often depicted as a trickster god who enjoys causing trouble and playing pranks on others.
Loki is a Siberian Husky known for its stunning beauty and distinctive features. It has a thick double coat with a variety of colors and patterns, including black, white, gray, and brown. Loki has striking blue or multi-colored eyes that add to its captivating appearance. Its expressive face is highlighted by erect ears and a fox-like snout. This breed is known for its graceful and powerful physique, conveying a sense of strength and agility.

Hypoallergenic: No

Size: Medium

Weight: 35-60 pounds

Height: 20-24 inches

Coat Type: Double coat
2

39
votes
Anansi

Anansi is a West African spider god who is known for his trickery and wit. He often uses his intelligence to outsmart other animals and gain an advantage.
Anansi is a deity originating from West African folklore, specifically from the Akan ethnic group. Anansi is often portrayed as a cunning and trickster spider, renowned for his wit and intelligence. He is a complex character, embodying both wisdom and mischief, and is often associated with storytelling, wisdom, and creativity.

Origin: West African folklore

Representation: Anthropomorphic spider

Nature: Trickster deity

Domains: Storytelling, wisdom, creativity

Characteristics: Cunning, cleverness, intelligence
3

23
votes
Coyote

In Native American mythology, Coyote is a trickster figure who is known for his cunning and deceitful nature. He often uses his trickery to teach important lessons or to help others in need.
The Coyote is a species of canid native to North America. It is known for its cunning and adaptability, making it a challenging and exciting animal to hunt. Coyotes have a unique combination of physical characteristics and behavioral traits that contribute to their allure as a hunting target.

Scientific Name: Canis latrans

Size: Average height of 20-22 inches at the shoulder, and length ranging from 40-60 inches, including the long bushy tail

Weight: Typically between 20-50 pounds, with males being larger than females

Coat: Thick and dense fur that varies in color from gray to brown, with patches of reddish fur commonly found on the neck and legs

Habitat: Found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban areas
4

24
votes

Frederick S. Church and James H. Moser · Public domain

Br'er Rabbit

Br'er Rabbit is a popular trickster figure in African-American folklore. He is known for his cleverness and ability to outsmart his enemies, often using his wit to avoid danger or gain an advantage.
5

14
votes
Eris

Eris is a Greek goddess of chaos and discord who is known for her love of mischief and trickery. She is often portrayed as a mischievous figure who enjoys causing trouble and chaos wherever she goes.
Eris is the most massive known dwarf planet in our solar system, located in the distant regions of the Kuiper Belt. It was discovered in 2005 by astronomers at the Palomar Observatory. Eris is pronounced as 'eer-iss' and is named after the Greek goddess of strife and discord.

Discovered: 2005

Type: Dwarf planet

Mass: 1.66 x 10^22 kg

Diameter: 2,326 km

Orbit: Elliptical
6

13
votes
Puck

Puck is a character from English folklore who is known for his mischievous and playful nature. He is often depicted as a trickster figure who enjoys playing pranks on humans and causing chaos.
Puck is a moon of Uranus that was discovered by the Voyager 2 spacecraft in 1985. It is named after the mischievous fairy sprite from William Shakespeare's play, A Midsummer Night's Dream. Puck is relatively small and irregularly shaped, with a diameter of about 162 kilometers. Its surface is heavily cratered, providing evidence of its violent past. Puck's composition is thought to be a mixture of rock and ice.

Discovery Year: 1985

Diameter: 162 kilometers

Shape: Irregular

Surface: Heavily cratered

Composition: Rock and ice
7

8
votes
Hermes

In Greek mythology, Hermes is known as the god of trickery and thieves. He is often depicted as a mischievous figure who enjoys playing pranks on others and causing chaos.
Hermes is a high-end luxury brand known for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs. Renowned for its leather goods, the brand offers a wide range of products including handbags, accessories, clothing, and fragrances. With a reputation for exceptional quality and attention to detail, Hermes has become synonymous with luxury and elegance.

Founded: 1837

Headquarters: Paris, France

Signature Product: Birkin and Kelly bags

Materials Used: Leather, silk, cashmere, and more

Artisans Employed: Over 3,000 skilled artisans
8

8
votes
Raven

In Native American mythology, Raven is a trickster figure who is known for his cunning and deceitful nature. He often uses his trickery to outsmart his enemies and gain an advantage.
The Raven is a popular and highly sought-after skin in Fortnite. It features a dark and mysterious theme with a menacing raven motif. The character is dressed in an all-black outfit with a crow-like mask and feathered details. The Raven exudes an aura of stealth and danger, making it a favorite among players who want to intimidate their opponents.

Release Date: April 6, 2018

Rarity: Legendary

Set: Nevermore

Back Bling: Iron Cage

Cost: 2,000 V-Bucks
9

2
votes
Krishna

In Hindu mythology, Krishna is known for his mischievous nature and love of pranks. He is often depicted as a playful figure who enjoys causing trouble and teasing others.
Krishna is a popular name in Nepal, derived from the Hindu god Krishna who is worshipped as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is widely used for both boys and girls in Nepal and holds deep cultural and religious significance.

Gender: Unisex

Religious Significance: Associated with Hindu god Krishna

Meaning: Dark, black, or blue-skinned

Popularity: One of the most popular names in Nepal

Cultural Significance: Depicts love, devotion, and divine playfulness
10

7
votes
AnonymousUnknown author · Public domain

Sun Wukong

In Chinese mythology, Sun Wukong is a monkey king who is known for his trickery and mischievous nature. He often uses his intelligence and wit to outsmart his enemies and gain an advantage.
Sun Wukong in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous dragon slayer

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Ranking factors for famous trickster

Cultural Impact

The trickster's influence on popular culture, literature, mythology, or folklore is crucial. How widely recognized is the trickster figure?
Historical Significance

Evaluating the trickster's historical importance is crucial. Has the trickster had a lasting impact on society, politics, or the arts?
Archetypal Status

The trickster's depiction as an archetypal character in various mythologies or cultural narratives adds weight to their fame. Are they a recognizable symbol of mischief, cunning, or chaos?
Enduring Legacy

Consider the trickster's relevance and popularity over time. Are they still celebrated and known today?
Storytelling Traditions

Evaluate the richness and variety of stories featuring the trickster. Are there numerous well-known tales associated with the character?
Cross-Cultural Recognition

If the trickster is known and celebrated across different cultures or regions, it highlights their universal appeal and fame.
Contemporary Influence

Assess the impact of the trickster in modern media, such as literature, film, or art. Have their attributes or characteristics influenced modern-day characters or narratives?
Popularity and Recognition

Finally, consider the general awareness and recognition of the trickster among the wider population. Are they widely known or recognized outside of specific cultural or artistic circles?

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

2647 views
193 votes
10 ranked items

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.

More information on most famous trickster

Tricksters have been a part of folklore and mythology for centuries, known for their cunning and mischievous ways. From the Norse god Loki to the Native American figure Coyote, tricksters have taken on various forms across cultures. In modern times, tricksters have also made their way into pop culture, with characters like Bugs Bunny and the Joker embodying their playful but often unpredictable nature. But who is the most famous trickster of all? Let's explore some of the top contenders and see who comes out on top.