Merk the Giant is a character in one of the ancient stories in Thom Merrilin's repertoire. The story of Merk the Giant dates to the First Age.[2] Merk fought against Mosk, another giant, who had a "Lance of fire that could reach around the world."[3] Merk used "spears of fire" to fight against Mosk.[2] The story of Mosk and Merk is an example of a historical account that over time evolved into a legend which further changed and faded into a myth. This is common for all stories that transcend multiple ages as the Wheel of Time turns.[4] Eventually the myth of Merk the Giant will disappear from memory and will be long forgotten when the age that gave rise to the original story comes again.[4]
Parallels[]
Merk is a hidden reference to America and Mosk refers to Moscow, America's opponent during the Cold War of the 20th Century. Their spears and lances of fire are hidden references to combat waged via the use of intercontinental ballistic missiles.