Last Updated on October 10, 2024
The Vikings were a seafaring people from Scandinavia who lived between the 8th and 11th centuries. They are known for their exploration, trade, and conquest across Europe, as well as North America. Vikings came from what is now Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, and they sailed on longships. These ships, with their shallow drafts, could navigate both oceans and rivers. This allowed them to raid, trade, and settle in far-off lands.
Raids became a defining feature of the Viking Age. In 793, Vikings raided the Lindisfarne monastery in England, marking the start of widespread Viking attacks across Europe. These raids struck fear in the hearts of many, as Viking warriors were known for their ferocity and speed.
Vikings also settled new lands. Erik the Red, a famous Viking, established a settlement in Greenland. His son, Leif Erikson, ventured further, becoming the first European to land in North America, which they called Vinland.
Vikings and Their Legacy in Asatru
The Viking legacy lives on, especially in modern Asatru, which draws from Viking beliefs. Asatru, rooted in Norse paganism, celebrates the gods and values that were central to Viking life. Warriors like Thor and Odin held high places in Viking culture. Odin, the Allfather, represented wisdom, battle, and leadership. Thor, the god of thunder, symbolized protection and strength. Both gods are still important in Asatru, reflecting the warrior spirit of the Vikings.
Vikings also influenced modern Asatru practices, such as the Blót, a sacrificial ritual. Vikings performed Blót ceremonies to honor their gods and seek blessings. Today, Asatru practitioners continue this tradition in honoring deities like Thor and Odin.
In terms of lifestyle, Vikings valued bravery, exploration, and honor. They maintained strong family and community bonds, aspects also celebrated in Asatru. The Viking code of ethics, known as the Nine Noble Virtues, highlights ideals like courage, truth, honor, and perseverance. These values influence modern followers of Asatru and create a bridge between past and present.
Vikings left a lasting impact on the world through their exploration, culture, and mythology. Their spirit of adventure and resilience lives on in modern Asatru, which honors their gods, runes, and rituals.
