Often celebrated in pop culture, Vikings were more than mere savages we see them as today. They were advanced seafarers of the 8th to 11th centuries, renowned as explorers, merchants, and warriors. They even reached America before Columbus, challenging different narratives surrounding them. While popular belief fixates on loot and conquest, the reality of the Viking civilization is far richer. We’re here today to dispel myths surrounding Vikings and offer a deeper insight into the multifaceted lives of these historical figures.
#1: Hygienic Practices of Vikings
Contrary to popular belief, Vikings did not neglect their hygiene but maintained a clean appearance, sporting longer hair and beards, and took careful measures to ensure they were well-groomed. Archaeological findings, including combs, brushes, razors, and ear swabs, debunk the myth of Vikings’ poor hygiene, revealing that both Viking men and women valued their grooming habits.
These artifacts, unearthed from Viking settlements and gravesites, attest to their meticulous grooming rituals, challenging the stereotypical image of unkempt and dirty Norsemen. Instead, they highlight a culture prioritizing personal cleanliness and hygiene, reflecting a more sophisticated and refined lifestyle than commonly portrayed.