postViking

postViking refers to the period following the Viking Age, generally considered to have ended around the mid-11th century. This era saw significant transformations in the regions historically influenced by Norse culture and expansion. While the direct raids and large-scale expeditions characteristic of the Viking Age diminished, the long-term impacts of Norse settlement and trade continued to shape the political, social, and cultural landscapes of areas like England, Ireland, Normandy, and parts of Eastern Europe.

In Scandinavia itself, the post-Viking period marked the consolidation of kingdoms and the establishment of more centralized monarchies. Christianity became increasingly dominant, leading to the gradual integration of Scandinavian societies into broader European Christian culture. The focus shifted from raiding and exploration to internal development and more formalized relationships with neighboring states. Trade networks, initially forged by the Vikings, often persisted and evolved, contributing to economic growth. The legacy of Viking exploration and settlement was evident in linguistic influences, place names, and legal systems that endured for centuries. The concept of "post-Viking" is less about a definitive end and more about a transition into a new phase of development for these societies.