This almost happens when Loki had the blind god Hoder accidentally kill Balder with a mistletoe arrow, but is averted by the planning of Odin, who creates a shield around Balder's pyre, and later restores Balder to life when the Asgardians, after being slain in battle with the Celestials, were brought back to life by Thor using portions of energy donated by other Gods. To prevent this, Odin cast spells to keep Balder invulnerable. Like the mythological version, the Marvel version of Balder is the catalyst that will trigger Ragnarök and end Asgard.

When threatened with execution for ignoring the call of battle for the sake of a fallen bird, his men begged Odin to take one of their lives instead. Balder is also briefly named ruler of Asgard during Thor's quest to find a then missing Odin.

Balder has aided Thor against many of his foes, such as Thor's adopted brother, Loki the Executioner and Enchantress the Enchanters Three the Wrecker and Mangog. One of the Norse gods of Asgard, Balder is the half brother of Thor, companion to the Warriors Three, and a loyal follower and son of Odin, ruler of the gods.īalder warned Thor about Skagg the Storm Giant and the fire demon Surtur being released by Loki who planned for them to kill Odin after being told by Heimdall. Created by editor-plotter Stan Lee and penciller Jack Kirby, Balder first appears in Journey into Mystery #85 (October 1962).

Walt simonson balder the brave cover