The Vikings have traveled all the way to Times Square to share their rich and fascinating culture with New Yorkers. In the largest collection of Viking artifacts to ever come to North America, including nearly 500 ancient artifacts, interactive features, and stunning replicas, the Swedish History Museum is bringing its newest exhibition, “Vikings,” to Discovery Times Square, in hopes of giving audiences a new look at the often misrepresented Norse people.
Vikings are often imagined as ruthless warriors and pillagers, dressed in armor and horned helmets. But you won’t see any horned helmets on display at “Vikings”—as there actually isn’t any evidence that Vikings ever wore these helmets. What’s more, the Norse people didn’t call themselves Vikings; rather, living in small farm communities, they named themselves after their farm, village, or region where they lived colorful, complex lives.
In Old Norse, to go on a viking meant to go on a journey to trade, and sometimes to go on a raid. On display at “Vikings” are two full-scale models of Viking ships, Gokstad II and Ghost Ship, as well as swords, armor, and exquisite metalwork. Yet while these Norse men and women lived adventurous lives, interacting with many cultures around the world, they also had a vibrant home life that revolved around farm. “Vikings” presents stunning items from everyday life, fine jewelry, household items and more, making a point to highlight the lives of women and children, who are often left out of our imagined Viking history.
If women weren’t off on a viking, they oversaw the farm household, which was the main social structure of Norse life. In charge of textiles and handicrafts, women held a lot of power in daily life. At “Vikings,” you’ll have the chance to marvel at these striking artifacts and explore Norse family life. How different was a Norse child’s life from today’s NYC kid? Take a look at their tools and ornaments, skates and clothing, and listen to their favorite stories.
With several videos and interactive components, there are opportunities aplenty for children to engage with the Vikings’ rich history. Children will have the opportunity to virtually collect the resources needed to build a ship; dress up Norse men, women, and children in traditional clothing; write their names using the Norse alphabet; go on a virtual excavation; hold a model Viking sword; play Hnefatafl, a Viking board game; and take a quiz at the end to see how much they’ve learned.
Beyond interactive games, audiences of all ages will be captivated by the fascinating world of Norse mythology and religion. “Vikings” showcases videos explaining gods, goddesses, dwarves, monsters, giants and the creation of the world, as well as stories told on Runestones (stones carved with illustrations, secret messages and myths). Through the intricate metalwork and gold and silver pendants on display, visitors will get a glimpse into the spiritual lives of the Norse people as well, exploring how Christianity and the Norse religion intertwined.
Whether you’re learning about the Vikings for the very first time, or have been studying them for years, “Vikings” is sure to be an educational and entertaining visit for all members of the family.
“Vikings” will be on display from February 5, 2016 to September 5, 2016 at Discovery Times Square. To learn more, visit discoverytsx.com.
