-
Viking women in law: Property, marriage, divorce, and power
A common historical stereotype is that women in Viking societies enjoyed a far greater amount of autonomy and independence than their contemporaries in other early medieval societies. This article looks at whether this stereotype carries any historical weight.2 months ago -
What did Vikings actually wear?
Long before understated Scandi fashion like H&M conquered the world, people in Viking societies developed a practical style of clothing that was shaped by climate, craftsmanship, status, and trade.2 months ago -
Words worth killing for: Insults, shame, and law in the Viking world
In Viking societies, a sharp insult could damage a reputation as surely as a blade could wound a body. This article looks at words that crossed the line from mockery to matters of honor, law, and revenge.2 months ago -
Locks and household security in the Viking Age
People often think of Vikings kicking in monastery doors, seizing untold wealth. However, these same warriors had homes of their own to guard and protect. We delve into household security during the early medieval period, when Vikings roamed.5 months ago -
Debunking the myth of a Viking cult of death
Whilst Viking warriors were feared everywhere from the Iberian Peninsula to the Caspian Sea for their battlefield bravery and ferocity, there is no evidence for a single, society-wide "cult of death."6 months ago -
What type of jewelry did Vikings wear, and why does it matter?
People from Viking societies had an eye for glitter and gold. Jewelry was not only worn to enhance one's fashion sense but also a visual cue to carefully signal one's identity, power, wealth, and even spiritual outlook.6 months ago -
Viking Age combs: Style, hygiene, and identity
Combs are some of the most common finds by archeologists during excavations of Viking-era graves and settlements. Their analysis enables us to gain insights into notions of cleanliness and how people in Viking societies presented themselves.7 months ago -
The Viking outlaw: Life beyond the law
Whilst often portrayed in some historical sources as a collection of mere bloodthirsty barbarians, Viking societies were deeply law-abiding as they formulated their own laws and rules to maintain order and peace within their communities.9 months ago
