Final answer:
The Viking's horned helmet is a myth stemming from the 19th century, created for Wagner's opera. Vikings did not wear horned helmets; this representation has been popularized through media and does not align with historical evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Origin of the Viking's Horned Helmets
The popular image of the Viking's horned helmet did not actually originate from historical Viking armor but was invented by Wagner for opera. This misconception can be traced back to the 19th century when the costume designer Carl Emil Doepler created horned helmets for characters in Richard Wagner's opera cycle 'Der Ring des Nibelungen'. The Vikings, in reality, did not wear helmets with horns as it would have been impractical for combat. Instead, their helmets were conical, made of iron, and often included a nose guard to protect the face.
The misconception has been further popularized by various forms of media and is not supported by archeological evidence. The Vikings are known for their advanced seafaring, trading, raiding, and their arts, such as the intricate carvings on their longships, but the distinctive horned helmet is not part of their genuine historical attire.