Did Viking Women Fight or Just Bear Shields?

The traditional image of Viking warriors often portrays them as fierce male figures immortalized in popular culture. However, contrary to this stereotype, Viking women had a more complex role in society than simply bearing shields or being passive figures. Historical evidence indicates that some women did participate in combat and were actively involved in warfare. This article delves into the available evidence, including archaeological findings, literary sources, social structures, and the shield maiden concept.

Archaeological Evidence

Several graves from the Viking Age have been found containing weapons alongside female remains, suggesting that some women may have been warriors. One of the most famous examples is the burial of a high-status woman in Birka, Sweden, who was buried with weapons, leading some scholars to interpret her as a warrior. These discoveries challenge the traditional notion that Viking women were solely responsible for domestic duties.

Literary Sources

Norse sagas and historical texts provide further insight into the roles of women in Viking society. Literary sources often depict women taking on warrior roles. For instance, figures like Lagertha and the shield-maidens are mentioned in various accounts, suggesting that women could fight alongside men. These depictions reflect a broader societal acceptance of female combatants in the Norse world.

Shield-Maiden Concept

The term shield-maiden is derived from the Norse tokamhildr, which refers to female warriors who fought alongside men. In Norse mythology, Valhall, the abode of slain warriors, is not exclusively for men but also for shield maidens who were slain in battle. This concept supports the idea that some Viking women were indeed warriors.

Social Structure

Viking society was relatively egalitarian compared to many contemporary cultures. Women had rights and could own property, indicating that they had a more active role in various aspects of life, including possibly in warfare. The societal norms did not explicitly prohibit women from becoming warriors, and we see examples of women who fought and were recognized as such.

Some Fought, but It Was Not Common

While many Viking women were likely involved in domestic roles, there is substantial evidence that some women also fought and were recognized as warriors. However, it was not a common practice. A woman would have had to overcome hurdles related to size and upper body strength, but these limitations could be overcome with skill and determination. Nothing in Norse society explicitly barred a woman from becoming a warrior if she chose.

Archaeological Findings and Battle-Scarred Warriors

Some skeletons of women who were injured in battle have been found, and these women were buried with a warrior's grave goods, such as shields and weapons. An example of this is the battle-scarred Viking shield-maiden whose face has been reconstructed for the first time. This discovery provides tangible evidence of the existence of female warriors in Viking society.

These findings and sources collectively suggest that while the traditional image of Viking society often portrays women as passive figures, the reality was more nuanced. Viking women played a more multifaceted role in society, and while not all chose to take up arms, a significant number did, contributing to the rich and complex history of the Viking Age.