Tag: viking
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Norse Mythology: Sources
Norse and Germanic mythology are full of rich traditions that have been preserved in only a few sources (at least directly). Many other sources contain bits and pieces of the mythological material, but only a few solely focus on it. This lesson aims to discuss those sources that directly address the old traditions of Norse…
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The Origins of the Viking Age
Many people across Europe saw the coming of the Vikings as divine punishment, but what really caused the people of Scandinavia to take Europe by storm? What made them capable of pulling off these raids? There are many possible explanations, although much is speculation. Some key candidates to be discussed in detail are: For now,…
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The Geography and People of Medieval Scandinavia
As one might guess, Scandinavia is a cold place. It is no wonder why Hel is a cold place, and Niflhel even colder. Stretching upwards along the Scandinavian peninsula is The Keel, a vast mountain range between Norway and Sweden that stretches into Finland. The famous fjords were formed by ancient glaciers. The coast, particularly Norway’s west coast, was known as the “Northern…
