A recent study suggests that the Norse myth of Ragnarök may have been inspired by a climate event that occurred in 536 CE. Volcanic eruptions unleashed ash and sulfur gases into the atmosphere, causing global cooling and devastating agriculture and populations. Researchers analyzed tree rings in Danish oak and found a severe impact on Denmark during this time. The study also found an increase in buried treasure deposits and changes in land use, indicating societal changes during the climate catastrophe. The widespread suffering and climate anomalies would have left a lasting impact on the collective consciousness of the time.