WHAT DID A SHIELD-MAIDEN DO?

Shield-maidens often fought alongside the men and were sometimes just as skilled in battle. These women were often just as capable in battle as the men, and they could use a variety of weapons, such as swords, spears, and bows.

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A SHIELD-MAIDEN?

Shield-maidens are considered to be honor, courage, strength, and pride. They are women who have chosen to fight and protect their people, even when it is dangerous. They are a symbol of female strength and resilience. The shieldmaiden spirit lives on in any person who holds these things dear.

WAS SHIELD MAIDENS A REAL THING?

Recent archaeological excavations of ancient Vikings’ settlements discovered in the 20th & 21st centuries show women as warriors. Throughout the Viking iconographic works on Viking-era brooches, metal figurines and curvings depict women equipped with armor, carrying spears, shields, or swords.

DID VIKING SHIELD MAIDENS EXIST?

According to the Viking sagas in Norse mythology, there are multiple accounts of warrior women. These sagas were written from the 8th to the 10th centuries, so it's possible that the concept of shield maidens was inspired by these stories, which means the speculation about their existence, if not true, couldn't be far from the truth. We have a comprehensive article on the topic here.