Jan 9, 2019 · All of these women, whether they were active warriors or strong female rulers, embodied the Viking ideal of independence and personal strength even though they were, largely, idealized women; there is no evidence of actual shieldmaidens.

A shield-maiden (Old Norse: skjaldmær [ˈskjɑldˌmæːr]) was a female warrior from Scandinavian folklore and mythology. The term Old Norse: skjaldmær most often shows up in fornaldarsögur such as Hervarar saga ok Heiðreks. However, female warriors are also mentioned in the Latin work Gesta Danorum. [1]

Thanks to Saxo Grammaticus’ Gesta Danorum, we know of a legendary female Viking known as either Lagertha or Ladgerda. This incredible woman was part of a larger group of female warriors who volunteered to help renowned hero Ragnar Lothbrok avenge his grandfather's death.

Sep 11, 2017 · More than a thousand years ago, a Viking woman was laid to rest with the full honors of a mighty warrior, including weapons, armor and two horses. But when researchers discovered her remains in...

Jan 24, 2025 · These women come from various backgrounds and have been immortalized in Viking sagas, poems, and historical accounts. Their stories not only showcase their individual achievements but also provide insight into the broader societal context of Viking women. Brynhild: The Legendary Warrior. Brynhild is one of the most famous Viking female warriors.

Oct 26, 2024 · Introduction to Viking Female Warriors. The concept of female warriors in Viking society may seem unusual, given the traditional view of women’s roles in ancient cultures. However, the Viking world was more nuanced, with women enjoying a degree of freedom and respect that was rare in other parts of medieval Europe.

From Freja, the goddess of love, sex, beauty, fertility and war, to the Valkyries who presided over each battle deciding who would live, and who they would take to Valhalla: these women of myth were highly venerated. But while the myths lived on through centuries of Norse history, what about the ‘real’ Viking women.

Meet the Viking Shield Maidens, the women who defied traditional gender roles and fought alongside men in some of the most brutal battles of the Viking era. These legendary warriors have captured our imaginations for centuries, and their stories continue to inspire us today.

Jan 30, 2025 · Most Viking women were likely not warriors, so this woman may have inherited the role: "I think she came from a family that was expected to have this position [as a war leader] and for some reason ...

Sep 12, 2017 · An elaborate Viking Age grave in Sweden holds the remains of a decorated female warrior from the 10th century, providing the first archaeological evidence that women held high-status positions in...