What Were Viking Poets Called?

The Viking Age, an era that spanned from the late 8th to early 11th century, was a remarkable period marked by exploration, conquest, and cultural exchange. Yet, when we think about the Vikings, what often comes to mind are ruthless seafaring warriors, their epic sagas, and their profound influence on the medieval world. But it is essential not to overlook a particular subset of this society that played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating the tales of these historical heroes and epic events: the Viking poets, known as skalds.

The Viking Poets: Skalds

The term ‘skald’ is derived from the Old Norse language, meaning ‘one who composes.’ Skalds were revered figures in Viking society, known for their unique ability to weave intricate tales through rhythmic verses. Skaldic poetry is complex and often challenging to interpret due to its heavy reliance on figurative language, known as kennings. A kenning is a compound expression with symbolic meaning, usually adding a layer of sophistication and intrigue to the skald’s narrative.

What Is Viking Poetry?

Viking poetry, more accurately referred to as Skaldic poetry, was an important literary form in the Viking Age and early medieval Scandinavia. This form of poetry, composed and recited by Skalds, was a key medium for storytelling, historic preservation, and social commentary. The richness of Skaldic poetry, both in its language and thematic complexity, provides a unique lens through which we can glimpse the Viking world.

Skaldic poems often revolved around themes of warfare, heroism, love, and mythology. They celebrated the deeds of Viking kings and warriors, the details of significant battles, and the exploits of mythological figures. The structure of this poetry was remarkably complex. Skaldic verse employed a variety of intricate meters, and its language was characterized by a heavy reliance on kennings, metaphorical phrases used in place of simpler terms.

Kennings added a layer of richness and complexity to Skaldic poetry, as they often required the listener to deeply understand Norse mythology and culture. For instance, the sea might be referred to as the “whale road,” requiring the listener to interpret the imagery within the cultural and environmental context of the Vikings.

Therefore, Viking or Skaldic poetry was a sophisticated and important aspect of Viking culture. It served not just as entertainment but as a means to preserve history, foster social bonds, and reflect the values and beliefs of Viking society. Its influence continues to be felt today, as it provides invaluable insights into the Viking Age.

What Are the Rules for Norse Poetry?

Norse poetry, particularly Skaldic and Eddic verse, followed a set of intricate rules and conventions that contributed to its complexity and richness.

The two primary types of Norse poetry are Eddic and Skaldic verse. Eddic poetry, named after the “Poetic Edda,” a compilation of ancient Norse poems, is characterized by its relatively simpler form and focus on mythology and legendary tales. The most common meter in Eddic poetry is ‘fornyrðislag’ or ‘ancient word order,’ which typically has four stressed syllables per line.

Skaldic poetry, on the other hand, is often considered more complex and challenging to interpret. Its rules primarily revolve around the use of meter and language. Skaldic verse usually used ‘dróttkvætt,’ the ‘courtly meter,’ characterized by complex syllables, stresses, and alliteration patterns. A dróttkvætt stanza typically consisted of eight lines, each with six syllables.

A distinctive feature of Norse poetry, particularly Skaldic verse, is the use of ‘kennings.’ Kennings are compound metaphoric expressions used in place of simple terms. For instance, a ship might be referred to as the ‘sea-steed’ or the sea as the ‘whale road.’ These metaphorical expressions often require a deep understanding of Norse mythology and culture to fully comprehend.

Finally, the subject matter of Skaldic poetry often followed specific themes, including battles, heroism, love, and mythological tales. It was not just an art form but also a way of recording history and recounting the deeds of heroes and gods. These rigid yet rich rules and conventions made Norse poetry an integral part of Viking culture.

Becoming a Skald

Aspiring skalds underwent a rigorous training process. The art of composing Skaldic poetry was a highly valued skill in Viking society, and to master it, one needed a broad vocabulary and a thorough understanding of Norse mythology, history, and the intricate rules of poetic composition. The ability to memorize and recite long verses was another vital requirement, as Skaldic poetry was an oral tradition.

The Life of a Skald

The life of a skald, the Viking poet, was filled with artistic pursuit, cultural significance, and close association with the Viking elite. Skalds held a revered position in Norse society, and their lives were intricately intertwined with the realms of poetry, history, and storytelling.

The journey to becoming a skald was not an easy one. Skalds underwent rigorous training and education, often starting at a young age. They learned the intricacies of language, memorization techniques, and the rules of poetic composition. Skaldic poetry was an oral tradition, so the ability to recite long verses from memory was of paramount importance.

Skalds traveled extensively, seeking patrons among the Viking aristocracy. They would accompany kings, jarls, and other noble figures, composing and reciting poems to honor their exploits, commemorate significant events, and preserve their legacies. Skalds were present at feasts, battles, and important gatherings, where their poetic performances entertained, inspired and solidified social bonds.

The life of a skald was not limited to poetry alone. They were expected to be well-versed in Norse mythology, history, and cultural traditions. Skalds were repositories of knowledge, serving as custodians of the past and the collective memory of their people.

Skalds often enjoyed a privileged position in Viking society. They received gifts and rewards from their patrons, including valuable treasures and even land. Their association with the Viking elite provided them with protection, social status, and opportunities for personal advancement.

However, the life of a skald was not without challenges. Skalds faced the pressure of constantly producing new and engaging poetry, maintaining their reputation, and navigating the complex political dynamics of the Viking world. They were also subject to the critical judgment of their peers, as fellow skalds assessed the quality and skill of their poetic compositions.

The Role of Skalds in Viking Society

The Skalds played a crucial role in Viking society. Their poetic creations were not just for entertainment; they served as a form of historical record, preserving the exploits of kings and warriors, significant battles, and societal norms. Skalds often accompanied kings and jarls (noblemen), recounting their deeds and feats to immortalize them in verse. They were important figures at feasts and other important social gatherings, where they would recite their poems to the accompaniment of music.

Viking Warrior Poets

Interestingly, the Viking world did not rigidly categorize individuals into separate roles, and the lines between warriors and poets were often blurred. Many famous skalds, such as Egill Skallagrimsson and Gunnlaugr Ormstunga, were also known as formidable warriors. Using their unique position, these warrior poets shaped narratives from firsthand experiences on the battlefield, allowing them to infuse their poems with vivid authenticity and detail. Hence, the tales of these medieval Viking warrior poets became some of the most revered and enduring narratives in the Viking world.

The Influence of Skaldic Poetry

The influence of Skaldic poetry extended beyond the Viking Age. The sagas, a form of long prose narrative that evolved from skaldic poetry, became a cornerstone of medieval Icelandic literature. Based on historical events or legendary tales, these sagas were often composed centuries after the events they described, using the skaldic poems as sources.

The work of the Skalds also heavily influenced later Scandinavian literature and significantly impacted English and Germanic poetry. Old English epic poetry, such as Beowulf, shows signs of skaldic influence in its use of kennings and complex verse structures.

Famous Viking Poems

Famous Viking poems have left an indelible mark on the cultural and literary landscape of the Viking Age. These poems, composed by renowned skalds, continue to captivate readers with their vivid imagery, emotional depth, and profound storytelling. Here are a few examples of famous Viking poems:

• Hávamál” (The Sayings of the High One): Found in the Poetic Edda, “Hávamál” is attributed to the god Odin and provides wisdom and moral guidance through a collection of insightful verses. It covers a wide range of topics, including ethical behavior, the pursuit of knowledge, and the secrets of the universe.
• Ragnarök” (The Twilight of the Gods): This poem depicts the apocalyptic end of the world in Norse mythology. It foretells the final battle between the gods and their enemies, leading to the destruction and subsequent rebirth of the world. The poem captures the epic and cataclysmic nature of Norse cosmology.
• “Lokasenna” (Loki’s Quarrel): In this poem, Loki, the trickster god, engages in a verbal battle with the other gods, hurling insults and exposing their weaknesses. It showcases Loki’s cunning and the tensions within the divine realm.
• Ynglingatal” (Lay of the Ynglings): Composed by the skald Þjóðólfr of Hvinir, this poem chronicles the genealogy and heroic deeds of the Yngling dynasty, tracing its lineage back to the god Frey. It serves as a historical record, preserving the lineage and legacy of the legendary Swedish kings.
• Völuspá” (The Prophecy of the Seeress): Considered one of the most significant poems in the Poetic Edda, “Völuspá” is a prophecy of the creation and destruction of the world. It provides an evocative account of the cosmos, the gods, and the fate of humanity.

These famous Viking poems offer insights into Norse mythology and history and demonstrate the Skalds’ mastery in crafting poetic narratives that have stood the test of time. They continue to inspire and fascinate readers, transporting them to a realm of heroic deeds, religious intrigues, and the eternal struggle between order and chaos.

Who Is the Norse God of Poets?

Bragi is the Norse god of poets, a deity closely associated with creativity, eloquence, and poetic inspiration. Bragi is revered as the patron god of Skaldic poetry and the personification of the poetic art form in Norse mythology. He embodies the qualities of eloquence, wisdom, and the power to move hearts through the spoken and written word.

Bragi is described as being exceptionally wise and well-spoken, known for his silver tongue and honeyed words. He is often depicted as an elderly man with a long white beard, seated among the gods and often present at feasts and gatherings. As the god of poets, Bragi not only inspires skalds and bards but also guides them in their artistic endeavors.

In addition to his association with poetry, Bragi is also linked to music and storytelling. He is said to be a master of the harp, enchanting listeners with his melodies. His name is derived from the Old Norse word “bragr,” which refers to poetry or a poetic manner of speaking.

Bragi’s significance extends beyond his role as the god of poets. He represents words’ power and ability to shape perception, influence emotions, and preserve cultural memory. In this sense, he embodies the essence of Norse oral tradition and the importance of storytelling in Viking society.

While Bragi may be less widely known than some other gods in Norse mythology, his influence on the poetic arts must be considered. Skalds and poets would invoke his name and seek his inspiration before embarking on their creative endeavors, hoping to channel his divine guidance and unlock the depths of their creativity.

In the end, Bragi stands as the embodiment of poetic inspiration and eloquence in Norse mythology. As the god of poets, he holds a special place in the hearts of those who value the power of words, storytelling, and artistic expression. Through Bragi, the Norse recognized the profound impact that poetry and literature have on shaping culture and preserving the collective memory of their people.

Summary 

The Viking Age, with its dramatic tales of warfare, exploration, and cultural exchange, has long captivated the imaginations of historians, scholars, and general audiences alike. While we often focus on the warriors and their heroic exploits, it is important to remember the medieval Viking poets, the skalds, and especially the Viking warrior poets who crafted, preserved, and immortalized these narratives. Without their poetic contributions, our understanding of this fascinating period would be less rich and evocative.

Today, as we read the sagas and study the kennings and complex metrical structures that typify skaldic poetry, we pay homage to these skalds, these narrators of the Viking world. Through their verses, we experience the ferocity, courage, ambitions, and essence of the Viking age, allowing these formidable seafarers to sail through time and continue their influence over a millennium after their heyday.