Scholars in Scandinavian studies assert that many commonly held beliefs about Vikings and Old Norse paganism are fundamentally flawed. This conclusion, drawn from extensive research, highlights how modern perceptions are heavily influenced by later medieval sources rather than authentic historical documentation.
According to Roland Scheel from the Cluster of Excellence “Religion and Politics” at the University of Münster, prevailing narratives about the Viking Age—generally regarded as spanning from the 8th to the 11th century—are largely shaped by Christian scholars writing over a century later. Scheel explains that besides a few brief runic inscriptions, no written texts exist from the original period, leaving a significant gap in our understanding.
The images of Vikings as fearless warriors and skilled seafarers, prevalent in films and video games, do not reflect the more complex historical realities. Scheel emphasizes that many narratives about Norse paganism, particularly those promoted by museums and media, often present a “memorialized history,” which lacks depth and context.
This romanticized portrayal of pre-Christian Scandinavian society credits it with a robust warrior culture and relatively progressive views towards women, compared to later medieval norms. Such favorable interpretations continue to shape modern identity, influencing groups that identify with Norse paganism and often contrast themselves with monotheistic religions like Christianity.
Scheel notes that this contemporary view tends to overlook the violent aspects associated with Viking raids. The idealized Viking image stands in stark contrast to the modern understanding of other historical events, such as the Crusades, which are often viewed through a lens of coercion and brutality.
Exploring Medieval Influences on Viking Narratives
Scholars Roland Scheel and Simon Hauke are delving deeper into how medieval interpretations of Norse mythology have evolved over time. Their research focuses on the ways in which different authors and cultural movements have reshaped the understanding of Scandinavian paganism. Notable examples include the 13th-century “Edda” by Snorri Sturluson and the works of Jacob Grimm, as well as references made by political figures like Otto von Bismarck in his speeches.
They argue that the historical record reveals much about the aspirations and worldviews of various periods. This exploration allows them to uncover how the image of Norse mythology has been manipulated for political purposes throughout history. The misuse of Norse mythology by movements such as the Volk and National Socialists highlights the potential for distortion in the service of ideology.
Despite the lingering associations with right-wing extremism, Scheel notes that the modern reception of Norse mythology is now more diverse, encompassing a wide array of interests and interpretations.
Artistic Representations and Cultural Impact
The influence of Norse mythology extends beyond academia into the realms of art and popular culture. Simon Hauke cites Richard Wagner’s opera “The Ring of the Nibelung” as a significant cultural touchstone that has shaped contemporary perceptions of Norse mythology. Wagner’s depiction of the Valkyrie as a fierce warrior has become a staple in various media, from heavy metal album covers to trading card games.
However, Hauke points out that this portrayal significantly simplifies the complexity of Valkyries as depicted in Old Norse literature. In original texts, Valkyries have multifaceted roles—ranging from selecting fallen warriors for Valhalla to serving as barmaids in the afterlife. The modern interpretation frequently reduces their character to a singular notion of femininity and warrior prowess, missing the broader spectrum of their representation in ancient narratives.
The research project, titled “Paganisations: Memorialised Paganism as an Element of Scandinavian and European Identities,” aims to explore the extensive history of Scandinavian paganism’s interpretation. A related conference titled “Imagining Nordic Paganism: Cultural Memories and Scholarly Thought Since the Middle Ages” will feature international experts discussing various aspects of this topic.
Through their work, Scheel and Hauke seek to illuminate the long-standing impact of these narratives on both historical understanding and contemporary identity formation. Their analysis covers topics such as gender dynamics, the spatial reception of paganism, and the role of paganism in historiography.
The findings highlight the enduring legacy of Norse mythology and its implications for how cultures understand their pasts. As scholars continue to investigate these themes, they challenge the established narratives and offer new perspectives on a long-mythologized era.
