The term "eddas" refers to two important collections of Old Norse literature: the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda. These texts are foundational to our understanding of Norse mythology and Scandinavian culture. The Poetic Edda is a compilation of ancient poems, while the Prose Edda, written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century, serves as a guide to the myths and legends of the gods and heroes. Both eddas contain stories about deities like Odin, Thor, and Freyja, as well as tales of creation and the end of the world, known as Ragnarök. They are essential for scholars studying Norse history and have influenced modern literature, art, and popular culture, including films and video games.