Vikings: Seafaring people from Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden) who raided, pirated, traded, and settled in Europe from late 8th to late 11th centuries.
Voyaged to the Mediterranean, North Africa, Middle East, Greenland, and Vinland (Newfoundland, Canada).
Significant impact on early medieval history in Scandinavia, British Isles, France, Estonia, and Kievan Rus'.
Navigation and Settlement
Expert sailors and navigators, known for their longships.
Established Norse settlements in:
British Isles
Faroe Islands
Iceland
Greenland
Normandy
Baltic coast
Controlled trade routes across Russia and Eastern Europe (Varangians).
Cultural Aspects
Language: Spoke Old Norse and used runes for inscriptions.
Religion: Predominantly Old Norse religion before conversion to Christianity.
Culture: Advanced civilization with laws, art, architecture; most Vikings were also farmers, fishermen, craftsmen, and traders.
Etymology
Origin of the word Viking debated:
Possibly from Old English wicing meaning 'settlement'.
Other theories link it to Old Norse vika meaning 'sea mile'.
Viking Age
Defined from the first major recorded raid in 793 until the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
The Viking Age saw the rise of powerful monarchies in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Significant expansion into the British Isles, Faroe Islands, Greenland, and North America.
Intermixing with Slavs
Vikings and Slavic tribes interacted through trade, warfare, and intermarriage.
Notable examples include mixed heritage among early Scandinavian rulers.
Expansion and Raids
Motivations for Viking expansion included:
Seeking wealth and resources.
Possible shortage of women and need for wives.
Desire for revenge against Charlemagne's forced Christianization.
Raids on European coasts were well-documented, often involving pillaging and trading.
Cultural Legacy
Vikings influenced modern perceptions through literature, arts, and media.
Modern reinterpretations often romanticize their image, deviating from historical accuracy.
Misconceptions
Horned helmets: A myth; no historical evidence supports their use.
Viking warriors portrayed as savage or barbaric often overlook their complex society and culture.
Drinking from skulls: Misinterpretation of sagas and literature; no evidence supports this practice.
Conclusion
Vikings were much more than just raiders; they were traders, settlers, and a significant influence on European history.
The legacy of the Vikings continues to impact modern culture and perceptions of medieval society.