Norse

Norse refers to the culture, language, mythology, and historical traditions of the Scandinavian peoples during the Viking Age, roughly from the late 8th to early 11th centuries. It primarily encompasses the Norsemen of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland, who explored, raided, traded, and settled across parts of Europe, the North Atlantic, and beyond.

Norse language, an early North Germanic language, evolved into the modern Scandinavian languages—Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Icelandic, and Faroese. Its earliest written form appears in runic inscriptions, with the famous Younger Futhark runes used from the 9th century onward.

Norse mythology is a rich tapestry of gods, giants, and mythical beings. Key deities include Odin, the All-Father and god of wisdom; Thor, the god of thunder; and Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility. Mythological stories are preserved in sources like the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, containing accounts of creation, the valor of gods and heroes, and predestined apocalyptic events known as Ragnarok.

Historically, Norse society was organized into clans and chieftains, with a strong warrior culture. They engaged in maritime activities, establishing trade routes and colonies across Greenland, Iceland, and parts of North America. Norse paganism was gradually replaced by Christianity during the 11th century, although some cultural elements persisted.

Today, Norse influence is evident in modern literature, popular culture, and archaeological findings. The legacy of Norse civilization continues to stimulate interest in Viking history, mythology, and Scandinavian heritage worldwide.