Viking history is often depicted through the lens of men – raiders, kings, and warriors – yet recent studies have shown that women may have played a more integral role in Viking society than previously believed. One of the leading experts on Viking studies, Professor Judith Jesch, has made significant contributions to our understanding of Viking women, especially those who may have been warriors. Through a combination of archaeological evidence, Norse sagas, and linguistic analysis, new insights into the role of women in Viking warfare have emerged. This article explores the history of Viking female warriors, Jesch's groundbreaking research, and the latest findings that challenge traditional notions of Viking society.

The Role of Women in Viking Society

Before delving into the specifics of female warriors, it’s important to understand the general roles of women in Viking society. Viking women were not merely passive figures; they were central to the running of households, managing estates, and contributing to the economy. They were skilled in crafts, such as weaving, and played vital roles in agriculture and trade. Women also had some legal rights, such as the ability to inherit property and divorce their husbands.

However, the idea of Viking women as warriors or fighters is a more complex subject. The traditional Viking warrior archetype is often dominated by male figures—berserkers and shieldmaidens—but recent research suggests that women may have been more involved in warfare than once thought.

The Concept of Shieldmaidens

The term "shieldmaiden" has become widely associated with female Viking warriors, often portrayed in sagas as women who fought alongside men in battle. These women were depicted as skilled in combat, often taking part in raids and wars. However, the distinction between myth and reality has long been debated.

In sagas like The Saga of the Valkyries and The Saga of the Skjoldungas, shieldmaidens are described as both fierce fighters and leaders of men. They were sometimes seen as the mortal incarnations of Valkyries—female figures in Norse mythology who chose who would live and die in battle. These stories provided a romanticized version of Viking women, but scholars have questioned whether these were mere legends or if they were based on actual historical figures. shutdown123