After the Elbaf arc was briefly hinted at in Little Garden some time ago, the story finally brings Monkey D. Luffy to this mysterious land.
The Yggdrasil Tree in One Piece
The latest chapter of One Piece introduced a significant part of the Yggdrasil tree located on the Elbaf island. This area carries an ambiance reminiscent of certain aspects from Norse mythology. Notably, One Piece recently unveiled the Yggdrasil tree, which does not grow in the heart of Elbaf. With its branches stretching high into the sky and roots delving deep beneath the ground, Yggdrasil is also referred to as the World Tree.
The concept of the World Tree made its first appearance in One Piece in chapter 1127. In a village, residents were discussing a mysterious fire that had started in the forest. The flames did not harm the Yggdrasil tree. Several locals were seen talking about the tree, indicating that Elbaf “will come to an end” if it catches fire. Thus, the World Tree clearly plays a significant role.
The Concept of Yggdrasil in Norse Mythology
Of course, the concept of Yggdrasil is not new in any sense. In fact, this World Tree has been referenced in many mythologies. Its first known appearance in Norse mythology was in the Poetic Edda during the 13th century. At that time, the World Tree was revered as a sacred tree that connected the Nine Worlds.
Norse mythology states that Yggdrasil holds the universe together across its branches, and its roots reach into various realms. From the realm of the gods to the realm of the dead, Yggdrasil is an essential element in the structure of Norse mythology. Within its branches, various mythical creatures and powerful beings thrive.
Over the centuries, the World Tree has been utilized in various forms of media. The most notable representation is in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which has depicted Yggdrasil. The tree made its first appearance in Thor and continued to show up in other projects like Captain America: The First Avenger and Loki.
One Piece and Its Connection to Norse Mythology
The presence of Yggdrasil raises questions about whether One Piece exists in a universe where it is not merely a fictional creation. The Land of Wano has been linked to many myths, and the World Tree of One Piece is undoubtedly a crucial element. From Skypeia to Fish-Man Island and beyond, many have pondered whether the World Tree in One Piece was created from a myth or if it genuinely exists in the world. Now, the emergence of the World Tree has brought this theory to light.
The truth behind the World Tree will likely unfold as Eiichiro Oda takes the story arc of Elbaf further. While we currently only have a chapter from this extensive narrative, One Piece may still be in its concluding phase, but Oda has many plot points to clarify before Luffy’s dream becomes a reality.
