1. Large and Monstrous Appearance: Trolls are typically depicted as large, fierce-looking creatures. Their size can range from towering giants to smaller, more humanoid beings, but they are generally larger and physically stronger than humans.
2. Grotesque Features: Trolls are known for their grotesque physical features, which often include large noses, protruding teeth, shaggy hair, and a brutish appearance. These exaggerated characteristics contribute to their monstrous nature.
3. Solitude: Trolls are frequently portrayed as solitary creatures. They tend to live in remote and isolated areas, such as forests, caves, or mountains, away from human civilization.
4. Anti-social Behavior: Trolls are not known for their social skills. They are often portrayed as unfriendly, hostile, and averse to human interaction. They may even display violent tendencies toward humans or other creatures.
5. Supernatural Strength and Resilience: Trolls often possess superhuman strength and durability, making them formidable adversaries. They may have thick, tough skin that resists injuries or even magical attacks.
6. Weakness to Sunlight or Water: In some cultures, trolls are said to be vulnerable to sunlight or water. Exposure to sunlight might turn them to stone or cause them to weaken and lose their powers, while water may be harmful or even deadly to them.
7. Dim-Wittedness: Trolls are not typically portrayed as intelligent beings. They may be dim-witted or slow-minded, making them susceptible to trickery or cunning.
8. Association with Evil: Historically, trolls have often been associated with evil forces or dark powers. They may be depicted as enemies of humans, protectors of cursed artifacts, or even servants of evil entities.
9. Shape-Shifting Abilities: Some stories feature trolls that can change their shape or transform into other beings, such as animals or hideous monsters, often to trick or harm their victims.
10. Redemption or Transformation: While trolls are usually depicted as villains or antagonistic forces, there are rare instances where they may undergo a change of heart or transformation into more benevolent beings, especially in modern fictional works.
It is important to note that these similarities can vary depending on the specific culture, folklore, or artistic interpretation of trolls in different stories. Nonetheless, these shared traits contribute to the enduring fascination and appeal of trolls in storytelling.