13 Incorrect Myths About the Vikings
Vikings are often depicted as fierce, violent raiders in horned helmets, terrorizing medieval Europe. While these warriors certainly had a reputation for brutality, much of what we “know” about them is shaped by myths and misunderstandings. Let’s take a closer look by debunking Incorrect Myths About the Vikings,
Table of Contents
1. Vikings Wore Horned Helmets
The image of Vikings wearing horned helmets is probably the most persistent myth about them. There’s no historical evidence that Vikings wore helmets with horns in battle. This misconception likely originated from 19th-century operas and artwork, where horned helmets were added for dramatic effect. Real Viking helmets were practical and simple—horns would have been a major disadvantage in combat!
2. Vikings Were Just Brutal Raiders
While Vikings are often remembered as bloodthirsty raiders, they were also skilled traders, explorers, and settlers. Viking merchants traveled as far as the Middle East and North America, trading goods like furs, amber, and weapons. Many Vikings settled peacefully in other lands, farming and integrating with local populations.
3. Vikings Were Unclean and Unkempt
Contrary to popular belief, Vikings were quite hygienic for their time. Archaeological evidence shows that they used combs, razors, and tweezers, and they bathed regularly. The word “Saturday” in Scandinavian languages translates to “washing day.” Vikings were known for their grooming habits, which was uncommon among many of their contemporaries.
4. All Vikings Were Scandinavian
While the majority of Vikings hailed from what is now Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, they were not limited to these regions. Viking culture spread throughout Europe, and many Vikings settled in places like England, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, and even as far as modern-day Russia. The term “Viking” refers more to a lifestyle than a specific ethnic group.
5. Vikings Were Always at War
While Vikings did engage in raids and battles, they were not constantly at war. Many Vikings led peaceful lives as farmers, fishermen, and traders. Raiding was often a seasonal activity rather than a full-time occupation, with many returning to their homes and families after the raid season was over.
6. Vikings Were Uncivilized Barbarians
This myth overlooks the fact that Vikings had a highly developed society with laws, art, and culture. Viking law codes were sophisticated, and they held regular assemblies, called things, where disputes were settled. Vikings also produced intricate jewelry, detailed ships, and impressive architecture, like the stave churches found in Norway.
7. Vikings Were Pagan Devil-Worshippers
While many Vikings did worship the Norse gods, including Odin, Thor, and Freyja, they weren’t “devil-worshippers.” This myth likely stems from Christian chroniclers who painted pagan religions in a negative light. By the 11th century, many Vikings had converted to Christianity, particularly those who settled in Europe.
8. Viking Ships Were Only Used for Raiding
Viking longships are iconic symbols of their culture, but they weren’t just used for raiding. These ships were masterfully designed for exploration, trade, and transportation, allowing the Vikings to travel vast distances across open seas and up rivers. They were also used for settlement and migration, helping Vikings establish new communities in distant lands.
9. Viking Women Stayed at Home
Viking women had more rights and independence than many of their European counterparts at the time. They could own property, divorce their husbands, and take part in trade. Some evidence even suggests that women participated in combat, as seen in the legend of the shieldmaidens. Viking women were far from passive housekeepers—they were active members of society.
10. Vikings Drank from Skulls
The image of Vikings drinking from the skulls of their enemies comes from a mistranslation of Old Norse poetry. The original text referred to drinking horns, which were often made from animal horns, not human skulls. While Vikings did celebrate victory with feasts, skull-drinking was not part of their customs.
11. Vikings Were Ignorant and Uneducated
Far from being ignorant, Vikings were knowledgeable seafarers, explorers, and navigators. They used advanced techniques to navigate long distances, relying on the stars, the sun, and landmarks. Many Vikings were also literate, using runes to write inscriptions and record important events.
12. Vikings Only Raided Christian Monasteries
While Vikings are often remembered for their raids on Christian monasteries, they raided a variety of locations, including villages and trade centers. Monasteries were often targeted because they held valuable treasures and were lightly defended, making them easy targets. However, Vikings attacked many places across Europe and beyond, not just religious sites.
13. Vikings Disappeared After the Viking Age
The Viking Age may have ended around the 11th century, but the Vikings didn’t just disappear. Their descendants continued to live in the regions they had settled, and their influence on culture, language, and politics can still be seen today. The Normans, who famously conquered England in 1066, were descendants of Viking settlers in northern France.
Conclusion
The real story of the Vikings is much more nuanced than the myths that have persisted for centuries. From their advanced shipbuilding to their strong legal systems and exploration of distant lands, the Vikings were a complex and diverse people. While they were certainly fearsome raiders, they were also much more than the violent barbarians portrayed in popular culture
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