Behind Every Viking Man there was a Great Woman

The importance and role of Viking women will be one of many topics up for discussion at the University of Birmingham’s Viking Symposium on Saturday 25th April. 

This day school provides an introduction to the latest research in Viking Studies. It is designed for anyone with an interest in the history and culture of the Vikings.  Speakers from the Universities of Birmingham, Nottingham and Oxford will talk on subjects such as how Viking communities interacted within Scandinavia and with native populations in other regions, as well as runes, mythology, the Old Norse language, Viking jewellery, stone sculpture and the Vikings’ relationship with Christianity. 

Some Viking women who settled in Iceland are believed to have been strong and powerful.  One example is Aud the Deep-Minded, who established a successful home in the west of the island.  She claimed one of the largest pieces of territory of any settlers in Iceland.  She was head of her own household, had her own substantial property and was revered almost as a Saint by her descendants. 

Dr Chris Callow, from the University’s School of History and Cultures who is leading the symposium, says, ‘This event is always informative and fun. Viking Studies is a vibrant subject and it’s great to have the opportunity to be able to put this across to a wider public. The question and answer sessions keep the experts on their toes!’

Anyone wanting to take part can obtain a registration form from http://www.cesma.bham.ac.uk/events.shtml and register before 17th April.  The cost is £27 per person, which includes handouts, a buffet lunch, coffee and tea. 

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For further information

Kate Chapple, Press Officer, University of Birmingham, tel 0121 414 2772 or 07789 921164.