The Runic Alphabet is an ancient writing system used by Germanic peoples, particularly in Northern Europe. It consists of characters called runes, each representing a sound or a concept. The earliest runes date back to around the 2nd century AD and were often carved into wood, stone, or metal. Runes were used for various purposes, including inscriptions, magical spells, and marking territory. Over time, the Runic Alphabet evolved into different versions, such as the Elder Futhark and the Younger Futhark. These variations reflect the changing languages and cultures of the Germanic tribes. Today, runes are often associated with Norse mythology and are studied for their historical significance and mystical properties.