Norse mythology and the Vikings are in the midst of a pop culture conquest. Thor and his hammer battle across movie screens in The Avenger, and television’s Vikings series is a Scandinavian-style Game of Thrones. In Victoria, Royal BC Museum’s current exhibit, “Vikings: Lives beyond the Legends,” reveals that the actual culture was even more exciting than fiction.
“‘Vikings’ will satisfy visitors who are enthralled by their fearsome past and by the traditional folklore of the Viking Age, and shatters many long-held myths about the Viking way of life,” says Jack Lohmam, Royal BC Museum CEO, in a written explanation.
The exhibition includes over 500 artifacts, interactive exhibits and a stunning boat reconstruction, which resembles a sophisticated, modern art installation. The Viking Age dates from roughly 750-1100 A.D. and relics indicate a culture of raiders and traders who traveled as far as modern-day India and Egypt. The word itself described an activity rather than a people – the ancient Norse idea of “going on a Viking.”
The traveling exhibit arrives at its first North American stop courtesy of the Swedish History Museum in partnership with Austria’s MuseumsPartner. On view through Nov. 11, it is the Northwest’s opportunity to see the show before it heads to Chicago.
Take a closer look at these exhibit highlights:
Skull and Bones
Kids flock to the skull-and-bones case. More than macabre, the specimens offer clues about Viking life. Worn teeth indicate a rough diet and broken bones hard labor – or violence. A skull with a noticeable hole drilled in the side reveals early attempts at neurosurgery to treat everything from headaches to seizures.
Insider Tip: Visitors learn that the classic horned, Viking helmet is a modern myth. It was created as a costume for Richard Wagner’s opera, The Ring Cycle.
Swinging the Sword
Up close inspection of the impressive array of swords, axes and spears reveals jaw-dropping details and craftsmanship. The hilt of an iron sword is decorated with a silver and bronze pattern, while a fearsome axe head is engraved with plant images. Some are engraved with runic inscriptions of the owner’s name, such as, “Rane owns this spear.”
Insider Tip: Visitors can lift a replicated sword to test its weight and feel.
Jewelry and Figurines
Jewelry often incorporates Thor’s hammer and Christian crosses. Don’t overlook the impressively intricate, one-inch high, silver pendant crucifix, which is the oldest known crucifix discovered in Sweden. A 6th century, green Buddha figurine from the Indian sub-continent indicates the Vikings’ widespread travel.
Setting Sail
Only a few wooden Viking boats survived the centuries. Many more were burned as part of the culture’s funeral/cremation rites. One of the exhibit’s most imaginative displays is a ghost-like ship reconstruction using only the iron nails and rivets. The pieces are hung against a white backdrop, creating a hauntingly beautiful, 3D silhouette and shadow of a Viking ship.
Insider Tip: Take a closer look at the “Away on Business” section. The video consoles create the shape of a ship. Also, visitors can handle Viking-style ropes made from horsehair and strips of elk leather.
Home and Hearth
Vikings did more than pillage and plunder. They were dedicated to home life. Cleanliness and personal appearance were valued as evidenced by the variety of combs and grooming items. Women had prominent societal roles. They carried keys for practical use and as symbols of rank and authority.
Insider Tip: Use interactive touch screens to dress Vikings in clothing that illustrates their occupation and social station. Pick up a free bread recipe to bake at home, which approximates the Viking version.
Stories, Fun and Games
Surprisingly, the Thor movies incorporate more facts than expected. Learn about Thor, Loki, Odin, the Valkyries – female warriors – and other Norse gods through interactive touch screen exhibits. Allow extra time to listen to pre-recorded Norse legends, such as “Thor Takes a Bite” and “The Apples of Idunn.”
Insider Tip: Visitors can learn to play Hnefatafl, a Norse board game vaguely resembling checkers.
“Vikings: Lives beyond the Legends” runs through Nov. 11. For more information, visit www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.
Photo courtesy of Royal BC Museum.
