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The Prose Edda: Snorri Sturluson's guide to Norse mythology
Do you often find it hard to tell the difference between Thor and Tyr? Unsure of the relationship between Baldr and Bragi? Well, thanks in part to a 13th-century CE poet and politician, there is a textbook that serves as an ultimate guide to the rich complexities of Norse mythology.5 months ago — Culture and religion -
Skaldic praise poetry as political propaganda
Viking Age chieftains and later monarchs skillfully used skaldic poetry as a tool to legitimize power, solidify support, and help shape communal memory. A core element of political authority for Viking rulers was the use of performative praise poetry.8 months ago — Culture and religion -
Kvasir and the mead of poetry: The god who bled wisdom
Born from the spit of the gods and said to be the wisest of all humankind, Kvasir was a mythical skald whose story ends in murder and leaves behind the gift of poetry.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Skaldic poetry and verbal sparring: The long lost art of flyting
Long before rap battles and mic drops, people from Viking societies had perfected the art of poetic barbs and epic verbal stoushes.1 year ago — Culture and religion -
Jorvik Viking Centre announces first snowy spectacular
Visitors can experience what winter felt like in Viking Age York through frost-filled backdrops, authentic woolen clothing, and even some skaldic poetry.1 year ago — News -
Bragi: The divine poet of Norse mythology
The rich tapestry of sagas and poems that Viking societies left behind extends well beyond their reputation as fierce warriors. In fact, in the world of early medieval Scandinavia, poetry was held in such high regard that it was worshipped in the form of a god, Bragi.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Rune for improvement: Education and literacy in the Viking Age
Despite their reputation for producing early medieval Europe's most feared warriors, Viking societies were also deeply interested and involved in education and literacy. We aim to dispel their reputation as mere brainless barbarians by exploring how Viking societies passed on knowledge and skills.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Egil Skallagrímsson: Viking warrior, poet, and man of many talents
Long before Hamlet, Holden Caulfield, or James Dean forged the Western idea of the anti-hero, there was Egil Skallagrímsson. He was a historical figure and a man of many talents. Among them, he was a Viking warrior, poet, and farmer.2 years ago — History -
The skalds of Scandinavia: Viking poets and their legacy
Whilst their martial prowess and naval skills dominate popular imagination, people from Viking societies also had a softer, more cultured set of skills. Skalds, the fabled poets of the Viking Age, were known for their unique and complex poetic forms and were also crowd-pleasing entertainers.2 years ago — Culture and religion -
Vikings at play: Sports and recreation in the Viking Age
While Vikings are often associated with warfare and raiding, they also engaged in various recreational activities during times of peace. Many of these activities not only honed some of their warrior skills but were also playful opportunities for entertainment and social bonding.2 years ago — Culture and religion
