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The Vinland sagas: Two versions of the Norse voyage to America
Centuries before the European voyages of "discovery," people from Viking societies reached North America. This memory was preserved in two very different sagas, two very different versions of the Norse exploration and settlement of North America.3 months ago -
The Jómsvíkinga saga and the culture of warrior fraternities
Whilst this elite oathbound brotherhood of warriors is heralded in the sagas for their dashing deeds and martial honor, the closer one looks at the Jómsvíkings, the more uncertain they become.3 months ago -
The Prose Edda: Snorri Sturluson's guide to Norse mythology
Do you often find it hard to tell the difference between Thor and Tyr? Unsure of the relationship between Baldr and Bragi? Well, thanks in part to a 13th-century CE poet and politician, there is a textbook that serves as an ultimate guide to the rich complexities of Norse mythology.5 months ago -
Hrólfr Kraki: The king behind one of the oldest Scandinavian legends
Regaled in early medieval literature and lore as the epitome of a warrior king, this semi-legendary monarch has a life shrouded in much mystery and myth. We uncover what can be said about Hrólfr Kraki, who later tradition treats as one of the earliest Scandinavian royal figures.7 months ago -
Rígsþula and the Norse idea of social classes
A seminal poem of Norse literature attempts to explain the surprising origins of the three social classes of deeply hierarchical Viking society.7 months ago -
Skaldic praise poetry as political propaganda
Viking Age chieftains and later monarchs skillfully used skaldic poetry as a tool to legitimize power, solidify support, and help shape communal memory. A core element of political authority for Viking rulers was the use of performative praise poetry.8 months ago -
The Laxdæla saga: Love, revenge, and tragedy in the Viking Age
Long before the likes of American reality television, Mexican telenovelas, or Shakespearean plays found popular appeal, people in Viking societies found their slice of over-the-top entertainment by regaling one another with sagas of epic drama.9 months ago -
How close was Old Norse to English when the Vikings reached England?
Nowadays, it is not just the cold North Sea that separates England from Scandinavia but culture and language, too.9 months ago
