Category Archives: Blog

Rune for improvement: Education and Literacy in the Viking Age

rune for improvement

From 793 to 1066 CE, the Viking Age is renowned for its warrior culture. You might also hear about its trade networks and maritime adventures. Still, the level of literacy and knowledge among the Norse stands among carefully neglected topics. Most people remember their raids and conquests. Simultaneously, the Vikings also had a rich intellectual […]

The History of the Bearded Axe: From Viking Weapon to Modern Tool

Viking axe

The bearded axe was specifically engineered for combat. Its long handle provided a reach advantage, while the extended blade enabled effective cleaving and chopping. The “beard” of the axe, which protrudes beneath the blade, allowed warriors to hook and pull shields or disarm opponents. A bearded axe can be distinguished from other chopping tools by […]

Why Viking Games Are So Popular

viking games

Vikings have captured the imagination of people around the world for centuries. Their iconic ships, weapons, myths, and legends all continue to inspire new generations today. It’s no surprise, then, that Viking themes are prevalent across many forms of entertainment, from books and movies to video games. In recent years, Viking games of all kinds […]

Viking Immersion: How Historical Research Improves Academic Skills

viking-history

The fascination with the Viking Age has persisted for many years and has interested historians, scholars, and enthusiasts. Due to the stories of the explorations, battles, and impact on other cultures, the Viking period offers a great background for historical analysis. Yet, beyond the thrill of Vikings, learning more about the past is not just […]

Language Legacy of the Vikings: How Old Norse Influenced Modern English

viking-language

I. Introduction The Viking Age, spanning roughly from the late 8th to early 11th centuries, was a period marked by extensive exploration, trade, and conquest by Norse seafarers from Scandinavia. While the Vikings are often remembered for their fearsome raids and expeditions, their influence extends far beyond their martial prowess and exploratory zeal. One of […]

Viking Horse Breeds: Exploring the Ancestral Lines of Nordic Steeds

viking-horse-breeds

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when hear the word Viking? I immediately think about fierce bearded warriors who don’t think twice about getting into battle. But what’s a warrior without a horse in 800 AD? They used horses for many different things including warfare, agriculture, traveling, and more. But since Vikings dominated […]

The Viking Legacy: How Norse Culture Influenced Europe

viking legacy

The Viking Age, spanning roughly from the late 8th to early 11th century, was marked by the remarkable expansion of Norse seafarers across Europe and beyond. These Norsemen, often depicted as fierce raiders, were also skilled traders, explorers, and settlers. Their influence on European history, language, and customs is profound and enduring. A New Dawn […]

Norse Knowledge: Viking Education

viking-education

The Vikings are well known for their exploits in the sea and on land. Still, little is known about how they educated their children. Viking education placed a strong emphasis on cultural heritage and valuable skills. Adolescents received instruction in fighting techniques, navigation, and household management skills. The critical function of stories transmitted by epic […]