Norse Mythology Influence in Elbaf Arc and Its Parallels with One Piece’s Ancient Kingdom

The highly anticipated Elbaf arc in the One Piece manga series has officially begun, exciting fans eager to witness the fresh adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates. Interestingly, hints about their future journeys may have already been hinted at with the confirmation of Yggdrasil, a significant element from Norse mythology, on Elbaf Island.

This revelation suggests that the Straw Hat Pirates might find themselves separated across various levels of Yggdrasil, specifically on the distinct islands of Elbaf. This concept implies that Elbaf could be reminiscent of the Ancient Kingdom, a land where multiple species coexisted harmoniously, much like how different races may inhabit the various islands of Elbaf.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author’s perspectives and may contain spoilers for the One Piece manga series.

One Piece: Drawing Parallels Between Elbaf Island and the Ancient Kingdom

Yggdrasil as depicted in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

The Ancient Kingdom existed prior to the establishment of the World Government and is notable for being the birthplace of JoyBoy, the first pirate of the Grand Line. Tragically, JoyBoy was defeated by the First Twenty, who went on to create the World Government. Nonetheless, JoyBoy left behind the One Piece for future pirates to uncover.

Though not explicitly stated, the inhabitants of the Ancient Kingdom could comprise various races that the World Government sought to eliminate—a situation that mirrors the current era, wherein the World Government exploits endangered species as experimental subjects. It’s plausible that the remnants of these races are concealed on Elbaf Island.

Moreover, the Ancient Kingdom remains a mystery to the First Twenty, akin to how Elbaf Island continues to be enigmatic to the World Government today. The acknowledgment of Yggdrasil’s existence on Elbaf further positions this island as an equivalent to the Ancient Kingdom.

As per Norse mythology, Yggdrasil hosts nine realms, which could symbolize nine smaller islands on Elbaf where endangered species secretly reside. In these nine realms or islands, the Straw Hat Pirates might be scattered, uncovering the mysteries of these rare species while training for their ultimate showdown.

Nami as portrayed in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Nami may venture to Asgard, a mysterious realm perched atop the Yggdrasil tree. This setting suits the Straw Hats’ navigator, given her experience in aerial training during the time skip, possibly connecting her to the Skypieans of this world.

Robin could find her place in Jotunheim, the realm of wisdom located at the base of the Yggdrasil tree. This realm aligns closely with her background from Ohara and passion for literature. Additionally, it may also hint at her reunion with Saul, as this region is home to giants.

Franky as depicted in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Franky could delve into Nidavellir (the realm of dwarves), while Chopper might find himself in Alfheim (the realm of elves), both situated at the lower levels of the Yggdrasil tree. The names of these realms are indicative of the endangered races they represent: dwarves known for their technological expertise and elves revered as healers of the woods, making these realms suitable for the Straw Hats.

Brook may explore Niflheim (the realm of ice), and Jinbei could navigate to Vanaheim (the realm of magic). Brook’s powers would resonate well with the icy domain, while Jinbei’s connection to the Sea God aligns him with Vanaheim, a potential home to yet-to-be-introduced fisherman species.

Roronoa Zoro as portrayed in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Zoro might head to Helheim, the realm of the dead beneath the Yggdrasil tree. This location is a natural fit for the Straw Hats’ swordsman because of his connection to hell (Three-Sword Style: King of Hell). Helheim could host an ancient species linked to the undead, such as the Draugar.

Sanji is likely to visit Muspelheim, the realm of fire at the base of the Yggdrasil tree. Given that many of Sanji’s attacks are fire-themed, he would seamlessly align with this region, potentially housing the Lunarians—individuals who are perpetually engulfed in flames.

Finally, Luffy and Usopp might journey together to Midgard, the realm of humans located centrally within Yggdrasil. This territory could be home to human-sized giants and may signal Usopp’s significance in this storyline, as he and Luffy would assume leadership in reuniting their crew from various locations across the Yggdrasil tree following their respective training.

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