SA0258 Viking Helmet

Viking Helmet
Knowledge about military technology of the Viking Age (end of 8th- to mid-11thcentury Europe) is based on relatively sparse archaeological finds, pictorial
representation, and to some extent on the accounts in the Norse sagas and laws
recorded in the 13th century.According to custom, all free Norse men were
required to own weapons, as well as permitted to carry them at all times. Indeed,
the Hávamál, purported to be sage advice given by Odin, states “Don’t leave your
weapons lying about behind your back in a field; you never know when you may
need all of sudden your spear.”These weapons were also indicative of a Viking’s
social status. As war was the most prestigious activity in Viking Age Scandinavia,
beautifully finished weapons were an important way for a warrior to display his
wealth and status. A wealthy Viking would likely have a complete ensemble of a
spear, one or two javelins, a wooden shield, and either a battle axe or a sword.
The very richest might have a helmet, other armour is thought to have been
limited to the nobility and their professional warriors. The average farmer was
likely limited to a spear, shield, and perhaps a common axe or a large knife. Some
would bring their hunting bows to use in the opening stages of battle, as well