Question

According to a law in early medieval Viking culture, this type of animal head carving:

μst be carved on the night of a full moon.
μst be removed before a warship returns to port.
μst be destroyed after any unsuccessful raid on the European coast.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) 3 only
d) All of the above

Answer 1

The historical specifics surrounding Viking ship carving rituals are not clearly documented, but it is argued that these carvings were a significant part of Norse culture, valued as art forms and status symbols.

Step-by-step explanation:

In early medieval Viking culture, it is known that warships often had intricate carvings, such as the animal head posts like those found on the Oseberg ship. While there are many myths and legends surrounding the Vikings, the historical truth of whether these carvings must follow specific rituals, like being carved on a full moon night or removed before returning to port, is not clearly documented and varies among sources. There is no definitive evidence suggesting that the carving had to be destroyed after an unsuccessful raid.

However, it is well-documented that these carvings and the ships themselves were highly valued artistic expressions within Norse culture, often associated with high status and elaborate funerary practices for significant individuals.