The wolf is a common motif in mythologies of peoples throughout Eurasia and North America, and also plays a role in ancient European cultures. The modern trope of the Big Bad Wolf arises from European folklore. The wolf holds great importance in the cultures and religions of many nomadic peoples, such as those of the Eurasian steppe and North American Plains.
In Indo-European mythology, the wolf was associated with the warrior class, who would "transform into wolves" upon their initiation.
The Ancient Greeks associated wolves with the sun god Apollo. Wolves were seen as both being negative and positive to the Norse people. They represent the untameable forces of nature, as well as bravery, loyalty, protection, and wisdom.
In Roman mythology wolves are mainly associated to Mars, god of war and agriculture. The Capitoline Wolf nurses Romulus and Remus, sons of Mars and future founders of Rome.
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