Jóhanna Katrín Friðriksdóttir Knihy

Valkyries are female supernatural beings who determine the fate of warriors on the battlefield, choosing who lives and who dies. Viking myths portray them as protectors and agents of death, attempting to infuse the brutality of war with a sense of glory and purpose. These narratives frame the deaths of young men not as futile losses but as destinies shaped by divine forces. The agency of women is a recurring theme in Norse sources, where sagas depict stories of conflict, loyalty, betrayal, and revenge. Women actively participate in the power dynamics of their communities, influencing events for better or worse. However, they also face systemic oppression and exclusion, with sagas conveying poignant tales of trauma that resonate today. In this exploration, Jóhanna Katrín Fridriksdóttir presents the captivating texts from medieval Iceland, showcasing a culture that envisioned women in powerful roles, influencing both earthly and otherworldly realms. By integrating the latest historical and archaeological insights, this work reveals the vibrant and multifaceted lives of Viking women, uncovering the reality behind the myths and legends that have shaped perceptions of their roles throughout history.

Die Mediävistin Jóhanna Katrín Friðriksdóttir untersucht die Lebensrealitäten von Wikingerfrauen und zeigt, wie sie in isländischen Sagas sowohl starke als auch unterdrückte Figuren sind. Der Band bietet einen ausgewogenen Einblick in ihre Rolle im Mittelalter und stützt sich auf aktuelle historische und archäologische Forschungen.