Viking Museums Struggle To Shake Warrior Myth

The traditional image of Vikings as male warriors is a lasting one, but Scandinavian museums are working to move beyond this stereotype. The National History Museum in Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, houses a major permanent exhibition on Viking, while the Swedish History Museum in Stockholm boasts the largest Viking Age exhibition in the world.

A new Norwegian Museum of the Viking Age in Oslo is set to open in 2027, promising to be the world's leading Viking museum. In the meantime, a temporary exhibition displays highlights of Viking Age archaeological finds at the Museum of Cultural History. These museums use history to shape ideas about national identity and reflect current values and needs.

Experts at Scandinavian national museums know that Vikings were a diverse group, far from the all-male warrior myth. The image of the male Viking warrior is a largely made-up one, and museums are trying to highlight the diversity of Viking society, including women, farmers, and traders.

## Why it matters The Viking Age became a key part of the construction of national identity in Scandinavia during the 1800s. Since then, the Vikings have become well-known symbols recognized around the world. The museums' obsession with Vikings is not just about meeting demand, but also about using history to reflect current values and needs. The Viking Age exhibitions at Scandinavian museums often balance historical accuracy with stories that reflect modern ideas about national identity and culture.

The enduring popularity of the Viking myth means that exhibitions often struggle to move beyond the familiar image of sword-wielding male warriors. However, by showcasing the diversity of Viking society, museums can provide a more nuanced understanding of this complex and fascinating period in history.