Mystical Creatures of the Arctic: Tooth Sprites
In the annals of cinema history, the 1928 production "Viking," titled "The Devils of the North Sea" in Germany, marked a significant milestone. It was the first time the Viking image graced the silver screen, ushering in a long line of cinematic portrayals that have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
The Viking aesthetic, now synonymous with cinematic masculinity, has been further popularized by contemporary productions like the TV series "Vikings" (2013). However, the Viking image has also been co-opted by extremist groups, particularly the far-right and neo-Nazis, who use it to bolster their ideologies of Germanic and Viking superiority.
The origins of this association can be traced back to the 19th century, when romanticized notions of Scandinavian history began to emerge. This romanticization was embraced by racist circles, who found solace in the medieval culture that would later be fully exploited by the Nazis for their propaganda.
Guido von List, a German fantasist, played a pivotal role in this process. He invented a pseudo-runic alphabet, the alleged magical "Armanen Runes," and fantasized about an Aryan race that included Vikings. The Nazi party adopted these ideas, creating a historical link from the mystical master race of Aryans to the present.
One of the most controversial aspects of this appropriation is the use of Viking imagery in extremist groups. Far-right and neo-Nazi groups, such as Blood & Honour, have adopted Viking motifs, and individuals associated with far-right ideologies have been known to attend Viking festivals. Clothing brands like Thor Steinar and Eric & Sons have built their image around Viking iconography.
The proximity of Viking imagery to the far right can also be seen at Viking or medieval markets, especially in Eastern Europe, but not only there. Neo-Nazi bands like one named after Odin's horse, Sleipnir, exist, and the English white power band Skrewdriver used Nordic mythology in their music.
Despite the popularity of Viking tattoos today, historically, there is no concrete proof of tattoos among 8th to 11th-century Scandinavians. The practice of dental modification, such as filing horizontal lines into front teeth and darkening them, was common among Vikings, but the reason for this practice remains unknown.
It is important to note that the term "Viking" referred to a profession, not an ethnicity or a people. The term "North Germanic" is not accurate and was mainly used by German national socialists to fantasize an ancient warrior lineage. In reality, most of the people who lived in European North during the 8th to 11th century were not Vikings.
The video game "Assassin's Creed - Valhalla" reinforces the image of Vikings as fierce warriors, equating fighting with being a Viking. This portrayal, while entertaining, should not be taken as a historical representation of the Vikings.
In conclusion, the Viking image, once a symbol of fearsome warriors on the silver screen, has become a contentious symbol in modern times. While it continues to captivate popular culture, it is essential to be aware of its complex history and the ways it has been appropriated by extremist groups.
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