Viking Influence on Modern Culture: From TV Shows to Video Games
Posted by Amber Lee on
As the thunderous roar of Viking longships echoes through the fjords and the clash of swords and shields rings out across the battlefield, it's clear that the legacy of the Norse warriors has left an indelible mark on history. But while the Vikings may have been feared and respected in their own time, their cultural impact has been felt long after their era.
he Viking Age was a time of great cultural and historical significance, and its influence can still be seen in modern culture today. From TV shows to video games, the Vikings have become an integral part of modern culture, inspiring new generations to explore the world of the Norse.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ways in which Vikings have influenced modern culture and explore some of the most popular examples of their legacy in TV shows, movies, and video games. So grab your helmet and shield, and let's set sail on a journey through the Viking Age!
TV Shows
Vikings have been the subject of numerous TV shows in recent years, from the History Channel's hit show "Vikings" to the BBC's "The Last Kingdom." These shows explore the world of the Vikings and their way of life, often featuring epic battles, political intrigue, and larger-than-life characters. The portrayal of Vikings in these shows has had a significant impact on popular culture, with many viewers becoming fascinated by the culture and mythology of the Norse.
TV shows featuring Vikings have become increasingly popular in recent years. The most well-known of these is the History Channel's "Vikings," which debuted in 2013 and ran for six seasons. The show follows the adventures of legendary Viking warrior Ragnar Lothbrok and his family as they raid, trade, and settle in medieval Europe. "Vikings" has been praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail, and has inspired a number of spin-offs and related media.
Another popular TV show featuring Vikings is "The Last Kingdom," which debuted in 2015 and is based on the series of historical novels by Bernard Cornwell. The show is set during the 9th century and follows the story of a young Saxon warrior named Uhtred, who is raised by Vikings and must navigate the complex political landscape of medieval England.
Movies
Vikings have also made their way onto the big screen, with movies like "The 13th Warrior," "Beowulf," and the Marvel Cinematic Universe's "Thor" franchise. These movies often feature epic battles and larger-than-life characters, highlighting the Vikings' reputation as fierce warriors and seafarers. The influence of these movies can be seen in popular culture, with Viking-inspired fashion, hairstyles, and accessories making a comeback in recent years.
One of the most popular Viking movies in recent years is the Marvel Cinematic Universe's "Thor" franchise, which stars Chris Hemsworth as the titular character. The movies feature elements of Norse mythology and Viking culture, and have helped to popularize the character of Thor among mainstream audiences.
Another popular Viking-themed movie is "The 13th Warrior," which stars Antonio Banderas as an Arab ambassador who joins a group of Vikings on a mission to defeat a supernatural enemy. The movie is based on the novel "Eaters of the Dead" by Michael Crichton and features epic battles and stunning visuals.
Video Games
Vikings have become a popular theme in the gaming world, with a number of video games featuring elements of Viking culture and mythology. One of the most popular of these is the "Assassin's Creed" series, which features a storyline that spans multiple time periods and locations. The series has included several games set in Viking Age Scandinavia, including "Assassin's Creed Valhalla," which was released in 2020.
Another popular Viking-themed game is "God of War," which follows the story of Kratos, a Spartan warrior who battles gods and monsters from Norse mythology. The game features stunning visuals and epic battles, and has been praised for its immersive storytelling and exploration of Norse mythology.
These games often feature elements of Viking culture, from Norse mythology to Viking weapons and armor. Many players have become fascinated with the Viking way of life, leading to a renewed interest in the history and culture of the Norse.
Art and Design
Viking-inspired art and design can be seen in fashion, home decor, and other areas of modern culture. From Nordic-style knitwear to Viking-inspired jewelry, the influence of the Vikings can be seen in many different forms. Even popular brands like IKEA have embraced the Viking aesthetic, with furniture and decor featuring Nordic designs and motifs.
Conclusion
The Viking Age may have ended over a thousand years ago, but its legacy lives on in modern culture. Overall, the impact of Vikings on popular culture is undeniable, with their influence being felt in TV shows, movies, video games, and beyond. Whether it's through epic battles, intricate political intrigue, or immersive storytelling, the legacy of the Vikings continues to inspire new generations to explore the world of the Norse.