From Thor to Christ: Decoding the Christianization of the Viking World
- Buy now
- Learn more
Module 1: Introduction to Old Norse Faith

Introduction
(Module 1: Introduction to Old Norse Faith) 1.1 Understanding Old Norse Faith: Key Beliefs and Practices

Norse mythology
Rituals and rites
Symbolic imagery and sacred sites
1.2 The Pantheon of Norse Gods

Æsir and Vanir
Notable deities: Odin, Thor, Freyja, Loki
Mythical creatures and beings: Giants, dwarves, Valkyries
1.3 The Influence of Old Norse Faith on Society

Societal structure
Laws and ethics
Impact on art, literature, and language
(Module 2: Christianity's Introduction to Scandinavia) 2.1 Origins of Christianity in Scandinavia

Early contact with Christianity
Missionaries and conversions: Ansgar and Harald Bluetooth
2.2 Christian Theology and Practices

Key Christian beliefs and rituals
The Church's structure and influence
2.3 Political and Economic Motives

Christianization as a political tool
Trade connections and Christian influence
(Module 3: The Conversion Process) 3.1 Dynamics of Conversion

Voluntary conversions vs. forced conversions
Top-down vs. bottom-up Christianization
3.2 Resistance and Syncretism

Resistance to Christianization
Syncretism and the blending of beliefs
3.3 Case Studies of Conversion

Examination of key regions: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Greenland
Role of influential figures
(Module 4: The Impact of Christianization) 4.1 Changes in Societal Structures

Impact on law, governance, and societal norms
Church influence on education and literacy
4.2 Alterations in Art, Literature, and Culture

Christian influences on Viking art
Introduction of Latin script and Christian literature
4.3 Long-Term Effects of the Transition

Erasure and preservation of Old Norse faith
The continued influence of Norse mythology today
(Module 5: Contemporary Perspectives) 5.1 Academic Debates

Differing theories about the conversion process
Reevaluating the impact of the Christianization
5.2 Revival of Old Norse Faith

The modern revival of Norse paganism (Ásatrú)
Interactions between contemporary Norse paganism and Christianity
5.3 Reflections and Conclusions

Reflections on the historical journey
Podcast Lesson: Christianization of the Viking World
Final course summary and discussion

(Module 4: The Impact of Christianization) 4.1 Changes in Societal Structures

2 Lessons