In the recent decades, the History channel, as well as other networks have shown great interest in brining major historical characters or events to TV screens. Vikings, an Iris-Canadian historical drama has gained popularity since its premier in 2013. We get a contrary image of the vikings, unusual to the brutal, and "savage" warriors . While brutality and war is a dominant feature of the series, we also get a glimpse of loyalty, honour, compassion and of strong females who occupy significant roles in the storyline. To what extent are these images representative of a true viking culture? What historical events can we detect that are somewhat accurate?
I have seen some elaboration of this in come Wikipedia citations from historians in that field. Also, I can say from looking at the history that the chronology is modified, and certain details of the chronology of Ragnar Lodbruck are unmentioned in "Vikings", or at least not covered yet. – JDJankowski8 years ago
I'm a huge fan of this series and I read some great interviews with the writer Michael Hirst who is an academic and researches heavily before writing. Perhaps you would be interested in reading a bit about his process. http://www.scriptmag.com/features/vikings-michael-hirst-writing-tv-series-solo-critics-historical-accuracy http://www.medievalists.net/2015/02/19/qa-michael-hirst-creator-writer-vikings/ – louisestupar8 years ago
It is highly encouraged for those getting involved in this topic to research the historical equivalent of the Vikings, the Normans and Danes of the 10th and 11th Century. They were exceptionally known as warriors, and would partake in the Norman invasion of Britain when the various kingdoms had occupied the country. They would of course conquer most of the territory, except Wessex, the Anglo-Saxons, and they would eventually form together long after the initial invasion of the land. This is where you will gain your material in research of this topic, and better understand the history of the Viking image. – N.D. Storlid8 years ago
