Scandinavian mythology refers to the collection of myths and legends originating from the ancient Norse people of Scandinavia. It encompasses a rich tapestry of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, with notable figures such as Odin, the chief god, and Thor, the god of thunder. These stories were primarily passed down orally and later recorded in texts like the Poetic Edda and Prose Edda. Central to Scandinavian mythology is the concept of Yggdrasil, the World Tree, which connects the nine realms of existence. The myths often explore themes of creation, destruction, and the cyclical nature of life, culminating in events like Ragnarök, the prophesied end of the world.