Histories and Languages of the Viking Age: Old Norse & Medieval Latin

The story of the Viking Age is one that spans several centuries (c. 750-1050 AD), and crosses continents, from Vínland in the west to Constantinople in the east. It is an era that has left a lasting memory in the histories and cultures of northern Europe and elsewhere. The variety of written sources from the Middle Ages dealing with this period are of crucial importance to our understanding not only of the deeds of the Vikings themselves, but also of how attitudes toward them have been shaped in the following centuries. Being able to engage with these sources in their original languages is an essential skill for anyone wishing to study the Viking Age or indeed the Middle Ages more generally. This course provides an in-depth introduction to the two most important languages for this period – Old Norse and medieval Latin – by combining language teaching with close contextual study of historical sources for the Viking Age. Students can choose between the Old Norse and medieval Latin streams, taking language lessons for part of the day, with both streams coming together in the afternoon for seminar-style lectures on the theory and practice of Viking Age historiography. Special attention will be paid to questions of source criticism and critical reflection on why we maintain certain beliefs about the Viking Age. Excursions will be offered to Viking Age/medieval sites of interest, including the Glavendrup stone and the ruins of Kalø Castle.

Course leader

Richard Cole

Target group

Bachelor's level

Fee info

EUR 824: Exchange students: No Fee

Freemovers, EU/EEA: 824 EUR

Freemovers, NON-EU/EEA: 1373 EUR

Books, course materials, social programme, and housing are not included in the fee.

Scholarships

No scholarships available

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