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Vikings are often known for their brutal raiding attacks. This perception has led many to think of Viking warriors as mere marauders without honor. However, the reality is much more nuanced. Over time, their small-scale raids evolved into full-blown territorial invasions, allowing warlords to achieve high social status, even becoming kings. Let's explore three of the most legendary Viking armies together.
When searching for "Viking army" on the Internet, the first result is often the Great Heathen Army. Indeed, this army is one of the most famous and is often considered the best because of its exemplary organization and discipline.
The sons of Ragnar Lothbrok, seeking to avenge the death of their illustrious father, formed this army. In the Anglo-Saxon chronicles, this force is described as the "Great Heathen Army," led by four of Ragnar’s sons: Ivar the Boneless, Hvitserk, Bjorn Ironside, and Ubbe. According to legends, Ragnar was executed by King Aella of Northumbria, triggering this quest for vengeance.
For 14 years, the Great Heathen Army invaded and attempted to conquer Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Although Anglo-Saxon sources do not explicitly mention the reasons for these invasions, legends suggest they were motivated by vengeance.
Another famous military group is the Jomsvikings, active around the 10th and 11th centuries. This pivotal period is marked by the gradual conversion of Vikings to Christianity, slowly abandoning their old pagan beliefs.
The warriors of the Jomsvikings worshipped Odin and aspired to join Valhalla by dying in battle. They followed a very strict code of conduct and accepted no man under 18, except Vagn Akesson, who was admitted at the age of 12.
According to legend, this army was formed by Palnatoke, a chief devoted to the old pagan beliefs. Palnatoke was a chieftain under the reign of Harald Bluetooth, one of the first Viking kings to convert to Christianity, likely for political reasons. This conversion created a rift and a bloody war, resulting in Harald's overthrow by Sweyn Forkbeard, raised by Palnatoke. The Jomsvikings then purportedly took residence in Jomsborg, their legendary fortress.
The Berserkers are legendary Viking warriors known for their fury in battle. Legend has it that they wore bear skins or went into battle bare-chested, without armor. Some sources even suggest they fought without shields.
These warriors worshipped Odin and, like the Jomsvikings, aspired to join Valhalla by dying in battle. Their combat rage was so intense that they entered a furious trance, knowing nothing but the will to kill their enemies.
Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic historian, mentioned the berserkers in his writings:
"His (Odin’s) men went without armor, as mad as dogs or wolves, bit their shields, and were as strong as bears or wild bulls, killing people with a single blow, unaffected by fire or iron. This was called Berserkergang."
These are three examples of legendary Viking armies that marked their era with bravery and a relentless quest for honor. Whether motivated by vengeance, pagan faith, or warrior rage, these Vikings left an indelible mark on history.
To learn more about the Vikings and Norse mythology, feel free to explore our other articles. And if you want to bring a piece of this legend home, visit our online store at vikingheritage.net. You'll find everything you need to dive even deeper into the fascinating world of the Vikings.
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