Unveiling the Practices of the Vikings: From Burial Rituals to Sex Practices
The Vikings, known for their legendary raids and cultural practices, have left a lasting mark on history. From their burial rituals to their unique customs, this article delves into the practices of the Vikings, providing a comprehensive overview based on historical accounts.
Viking Burial Rituals and the Cult of the Dead
Viking culture placed great importance on the burial of their deceased. Some of the common practices included the burial of dead warriors in boats, a symbol of their life on the sea. These boats, loaded with treasures, were then set ablaze or sunk to accompany the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. This reflects the Vikings' belief in an afterlife where their departed ones would continue their adventures.
Runes and the Poetry of the Vikings
The Vikings were also known for their use of runes, an ancient form of writing. Runes were not just a means of communication but were also believed to convey supernatural powers and messages. Poets and storytellers would inscribe runic verses on stones or wood to preserve the oral traditions of the Vikings. Their poetry, rich in imagery, served as both a form of entertainment and historical documentation.
Viking Clothing and Material Culture
The Vikings were skilled in various crafts, including clothing. One of their notable practices was the use of sheep's wool to create garments, reflecting their deep connection to the natural world. The quality of their garments was often a status symbol, indicating the wearer's wealth and social standing.
Raids and Naval Expeditions
One of the defining features of the Viking era was their frequent raids along the coastline in large ships. These expeditions were not just for robbery and plunder but also a means to expand their influence and trade networks. The Vikings would often land, loot monasteries, and capture people to use as slaves, showcasing their ruthless tactics and fearless nature.
Sexual Practices and Hygiene of the Vikings
While the Vikings were known for their warrior culture, their sexual practices and personal hygiene were sometimes frowned upon by contemporary accounts. Female Vikings were known to have body tattoos all over, and green lines were a common practice among those near Rus. Accounts also suggest that group sex among Vikings was not uncommon, with multiple women engaging in sexual acts with a single man until satisfaction was reached.
Their hygiene practices were often criticized. A historian noted an incident where a Viking washed his face from a single tub of water, then handed it to another, and so on, until the last person used the same water. This ritual not only demonstrated the Vikings' disregard for personal hygiene but also their casual attitude towards health and cleanliness.
Some practices, such as the ritual of having a slave girl accompany a deceased man, demonstrate the complexity of Viking beliefs. Ibn Fadlān's detailed account of the burial ritual of a man who died and had a slave girl join him in death provides a glimpse into the cultural and religious practices of the Vikings. Six men had intercourse with the slave girl, and then a woman called 'the Angel of Death' placed a rope around her neck while another used a broad-bladed dagger to inflict fatal wounds, witnessed by the six men who throttled her to death.
Excessive Drinking and Social Practices
Alcohol played a significant role in Viking social life. They were known to drink heavily, and excessive alcohol consumption could lead to tragic outcomes. It is recorded that a Viking might die from a burst blood vessel while still holding his cup, highlighting the impulsiveness and risk-taking nature of the Vikings.
The Vikings, while strong and powerful, had a complex culture that included both admirable and questionable practices. Their legacy remains a fascinating subject for historians and scholars, offering insight into one of the most intriguing eras of ancient history.