The word Viking in the Old Norse language actually translates to mean raider or pirate.  Norse youth during the Viking period were encouraged to go on “honorable” raids, but were expected to eventually settle down and farm when they matured.  The Vikings were particularly successful in their raiding activities due to the superiority of their boats in comparison to other people’s boats at the time.  Viking boats had a shallow draft and wide beam that allowed them to be beached in unexpected places surprising their intended victims.

Vikings followed a pagan religion that fostered the philosophical understanding that for most people death meant that they ceased to exist.  The qualities of bravery, generosity and loyalty were especially esteemed and would guarantee an afterlife.  Some scholars believe that the cessation of spiritual benefits of the raiding due to introductions of Christianity was the actual cause of the end of the Viking era.

Image	Description
	Sisters & Churn These sisters are shown in smocks with long tunics, golden cloak clasps and large paddles to churn that cream into butte…	Buy More
	Viking Family The family includes father who may be setting off to go viking!  He has his chainmail, trousers with leg wraps.&nbs…	Buy More
	Viking Farewell A snippet from the Bayeaux Tapestry is in the background, depicting a dragon ship.  This Viking man is wearing gree…	Buy More
	Viking Kids This watercolor portrays to young viking children off on an adventure.  The young lady is wearing linen dress and c…	Buy More
	Viking Siblings Sharon's watercolor is enhanced by a stone with the runic alphabet on it.  Their decorated tunics and accessori…	Buy More
	Viking Tradesman …	Buy More
	Viking Warrior Honey Wolf Thanks to the real Honey Wolf who gave Sharon his picture in full costume for reference!  He is wearing leather jer…	Buy More
	Viking Warrior in Chainmail This Viking watercolor depicts a young man wearing chainmail, helmet with nose protection, trousers with legwraps. …	Buy More
	Viking Woman Making Yarn …	Buy More
	Viking Woman with Loom …	Buy More