SOAN 339 - Vikings in Anthropology, History, and Contemporary Society

4 credits
The Vikings endure. From German composer Richard Wagner in the 19th century to the Marvel Cinematic Universe to Black Metal bands more recently, the savage northern European ancestor in a horned helmet remains ubiquitous in contemporary European and American society. This course interrogates this archetype and considers the history, society, literature, art, archaeology of the early medieval Norse people of Scandinavia and their continuing role in contemporary society. What is the historical basis for the archetype? How did the Norse really live? Why has the Norse archetype remained such a potent sign in contemporary society? What does it signify? Prerequisite(s): WR 123 or equivalent and Sophomore standing or above.
Approved for General Education: University Studies - J Strand
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule.