Nordic mythology refers to the ancient beliefs and stories of the Scandinavian people, primarily from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland. It features a rich tapestry of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, with prominent figures like Odin, the chief god, and Thor, the god of thunder. These tales were passed down orally and later recorded in texts such as the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda. The mythology explains natural phenomena, human experiences, and the cosmos through various myths and legends. Central themes include creation, destruction, and the afterlife, with realms like Asgard for the gods and Hel for the dead. Nordic mythology has influenced modern literature, art, and popular culture.