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HISTORY VAULT

In ancient Norse mythology, Thor, god of thunder, protects against evil ogres and battles a giant serpent bent on destroying mankind.

Clash of the Gods

J.R.R. Tolkien writes his epic fantasy, "The Lord of the Rings," to follow his tale of the folk of Middle-earth in "The Hobbit."

Burial mounds and ancient carvings suggest that a real Norse warrior may have been the inspiration for the epic poem "Beowulf."

A heroic Greek makes a many-year journey home from the Trojan War to reclaim his wife and kingdom in Homer's epic tale "The Odyssey."

In ancient Greek mythology, the gorgon Medusa turns to stone any living thing that looks upon her.

Archaeologists uncover clues that a real place inspired the myth of the Minotaur, a man with the head of a bull that lived in a terrifying labyrinth.

In ancient Greek mythology, Hades shows the people's belief in -- but also fear of -- life after death.

In ancient Greek mythology, Hercules embarks on a journey to complete 12 labors to atone for committing a crime.

In ancient Greek mythology, Zeus wages an epic struggle for control of the universe.

Revealing the history behind mythologies.