Vikings used horns on headgear to help divert spear & sword attacks to the head. That is the most vulnerable area in battle. And, yes, John, they did have horned helms. I am a descendent of King Knut of Norway. I guarantee I know my history & family lineage. Not to mention that I am a martial artist who does medieval weaponry. Sword, spear, naga nada, bow, etc..
When the Viking village of Jorvik in York, England was excavated, there was no evidence of horned helmets at all. There was evidence of their entire life cycle, including everything from the ships on which they arrived to the latrine pits they dug in their yards, but no horned helmets. (The Brits use smells as part of the experience on a “ride” such as the one we enjoyed in Jorvik. Not only did they project the scent of the latrine pit, but you could buy a “scratch-n-sniff” in the gift shop of the same scent.)
I remember an old George Price cartoon from the New Yorker that presented a good reason for Vikings wearing horned helmets. They were great for holding extra donuts.
jpsomebody over 9 years ago
To make noise with?
Sisyphos over 9 years ago
Irwin is for conversation. Gaylord is for making a point (or two)….
starcandles Premium Member over 9 years ago
Vikings used horns on headgear to help divert spear & sword attacks to the head. That is the most vulnerable area in battle. And, yes, John, they did have horned helms. I am a descendent of King Knut of Norway. I guarantee I know my history & family lineage. Not to mention that I am a martial artist who does medieval weaponry. Sword, spear, naga nada, bow, etc..
sarah413 Premium Member over 9 years ago
Next top for Gaylord, Pamplona. Making sure that practice makes perfect.
JanLC over 9 years ago
When the Viking village of Jorvik in York, England was excavated, there was no evidence of horned helmets at all. There was evidence of their entire life cycle, including everything from the ships on which they arrived to the latrine pits they dug in their yards, but no horned helmets. (The Brits use smells as part of the experience on a “ride” such as the one we enjoyed in Jorvik. Not only did they project the scent of the latrine pit, but you could buy a “scratch-n-sniff” in the gift shop of the same scent.)
pauljmsn over 9 years ago
I remember an old George Price cartoon from the New Yorker that presented a good reason for Vikings wearing horned helmets. They were great for holding extra donuts.
boldyuma over 9 years ago
That darn Brunhilde in the Wagnerian operasAlways messing with our historical accuracy recollections
Daeder over 9 years ago
Is that from Hagar’s garage sale?
bjy1293 Premium Member over 9 years ago
Good grief folks, let us just enjoy the great concept Russell has shared with us.