Savage beyond Reason?
The Vikings and their Legacy in England
Thursday 4th June
10.30-11.30am
(Dr Mark Barnard)
DAY TALK £5.00 

Most of us have heard of the Vikings — raiders who swept across Britain in longships, striking fear into monasteries and kingdoms alike. But did they really wear horned helmets, and were they truly “savage beyond reason”? What exactly was the infamous Blood Eagle? And beyond the legends, what did these warriors, traders and settlers actually look like — and how did they change the communities they encountered?

In this fascinating reassessment, Mark Barnard separates myth from reality, exploring how the Vikings have been portrayed over the centuries and why their reputation became so fearsome. We’ll examine the evidence behind their raids, their beliefs and culture, and their lasting impact on England — from language and law to place names and power structures.

Far from being one-dimensional barbarians, the Vikings were complex and adaptable people whose legacy still shapes the world around us.

Join Mark to uncover the truth behind the legend and discover the real story of these remarkable seafarers.