Vikings used many weapons: bows and arrows, spears, axes and swords. The bearded axe ( SOURCE3 ) was used mostly by Vikings. The sword, a status symbol, had a broad, double-edged blade, a cross-guard, anda pommel for close combat. Viking swords were very ornate, sometimes gilded with precious metals. Vikings even gave names to their swords. For example, the fictional Beowulf’s sword was called Hrunting. Another saga tells of King Magnus of Norway having a sword gilded with gold and with a grip made from walrus ivory, which he called Leg-biter. The Vikings certainly placed great importance on their swords and the rest of their war gear.
SOURCE3 An artist’s impression of a Viking raid
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A Contrary to popular belief, Viking helmets did not have horns attached. They would have been very impractical in battle! B Viking raiding parties struck quickly and unexpectedly, often at dawn, when it was hard for victims to escape or defend themselves. C The iron-headed battle axe was so sharp and heavy it could cut through armour. D Sometimes Vikings used the ‘svinflyking’, or V-shaped boar formation, when attacking. This ensured that their victims were quickly swamped by numbers. E Swords were a status symbol among Viking warriors. They were double-edged and often had a highly decorated hilt. Sometimes they were even given grisly nicknames such as ‘Leg-biter’. F As a refuge, some monks built tall, round towers of stone. Rope ladders hung down from openings at the top. After climbing into the tower, monks pulled the ladders up. They stayed there until a Viking attack was over. G Usually only raid leaders wore expensive chain-mail tunics. Thick padded clothing was worn underneath. H The circular wooden shields were about one metre in diameter. They featured brightly painted designs. A metal boss covered the hole in the centre to which was attached an iron hand grip. I Spears comprised a slim iron blade connected to a long wooden shaft. Some Vikings were so skilled that they could catch spears in mid flight and toss them back.
SkillBuilder discussion Using historical sources 1. Look at SOURCE3 . What kind of weapons are the Vikings using in this raid? 2. How are the Vikings positioned during their attack? 3. What type of defenses or shelters are visible in the background of the image?
TOPIC7 The Vikings 177
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