I was born in a culture and a language that I do not live or operate in and I believe, to a certain degree most people could say that, even if unlike me, they did not migrate from one country to another or learn another language. The world around us keeps changing, new language and norms are created almost every day which may be one of the reason for people feeling alienated from the world around them, wanting change or to go back to a period when life seemed simpler and more equitable somehow.
I was born in Pakistan to Muslim Parents but was brought up to the UK when I was two. This step from a small Punjabi village to inner city Manchester was not a small one: for a start, we had to learn to live with a new language and cultural heritage. That has made me feel, at times, as if I do not fully belong anywhere but at other times as if I fit in almost everywhere. It does give me and others, the opportunity to influence things from a unique perspective, for instance, when one of my communities is making assumption about the other. It has always made me curious about diversity, culture and language. I love history and sharing ideas because of the perspective it gives and wanted to look at values and how we label and question others. Just some random thoughts: no definitive answer but a perspective.
At the moment I am watching Viking, been to an exhibition on the Russian revolution, listening to programming about the 70 years of the partition of India.
Vikings is a historical television series which I have become slightly obsessed with over the last couple of weeks. it premiered in 2013 but has only just come to my attention. It is inspired by the stories of Ragnar Lothbrok, a legendary Viking who started life as a farmer but after successful raids into England becomes king. The cast of characters in the series include his family: his brother Rollo, his son Björn Ironside, his wives, the shieldmaiden Lagertha and the princess Aslaug. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vikings_(TV_series)
As I said, I am obsessed and my first question was how historically accurate is it and does it really matter when it is such a good story. Sometimes uncomfortable viewing because, like all such things, has far too much sex and violence. I think one of the central conversations is the difference between the Pagan, Viking and Christian. To me that translates into what are Pagan and Christian values and who is too judge between them? The word Pagan being almost synonymous with superstitious and violence whilst Christian values are nothing but noble?
The character of Athelstan seems to do that mainly because he is a key part of both camps and constantly torn between the customs of Christian England and the pagan ways of Scandinavia. In one scene when he is in the court of King Ecbert of Wessex, a woman is brought to court by a husband who has disfigured and accused her of adultery. King Ecbert asks Athelstan what Pagan justice would do in this case. Athelstans declares in the Pagan world she would be deemed a free woman so not guilty. In the Christian world, as property of the husband she would be punished. In this case, thankfully, King Ecbert decides to administer pagan justice so the woman is freed. When, later Athelstan has a relationship with Judith of Northumbria, the king’s daughter in law, she has an ear sliced of.
Ragnar Lothbrok’s siege of Paris highlights the story of Gisela, daughter to the king of West Francia Charles the Simple and her relationship with Rolllo. A very indominable lady who, is in some ways, is the power behind the throne with a fervent Christian faith. The first time she and Rollo meet, however, is when she is using superstition and magic on the battlements. She has been shown the sacred banner Oriflamme of Saint Dennis, the patron saint of Paris by a Monk. She takes the banner gets it blessed in the Cathedral and takes it to the soldiers; basically, saying behold a sign of God and your patron saint, victory will be ours.
She is a woman, however and despite her protests, she is made to marry the Pagan; political alliances being of utmost importance. As Rollo learns “Christian” ways their relationship improves to such an extent that she tries to help Rollo in his advancement at court. She suggests that by murdering the general he would become the King’s main advisor. Rollo replies Viking’s do not stab people in the back. Her rely is simply you are now a …
Now Vikings, is only a TV series and although based on historical record not entirely consistent with it; in fact, how can it be because, for a start history is based on interpretation and a lot of it has disappeared into myth. These myths, however are powerful stories that helped us to become who we are today so can help refection.
I like the way it has been adapted for modern audiences and the Story of the Norse women fits in well. I love the fact that Norse women fight on the battle field alongside their menfolk. Lagertha is a powerful warrior who fights on the front line besides her ex and her son; Björn Ironside. She however, has the title of shieldmaiden which does ensure we never forget her femininity. It is a drama, however, about historical times which we should not judge by our own values, principles and standards. So, no judgement but just questions: what are our values and on what do we base them on? I also wonder why our days are named after Pagan Gods?
I said above, that I had been doing other things besides watching Vikings but more of that on another occasion. For now:
May we all be well, healthy and strong:
May we all be happy.
May we all abide in peace
May we all feel safe and secure
May we all feel loved and cared for.
Postscript August 2017: The Muslims take their place in history.
Just seen S4 E16 and it has identifiable Muslims in it because the Vikings finally reach Spain. Rollo explains that these people are Moorish and pray to the God Allah.
I love the scenes when Floki, hears the call to prayer, enters a room sees people praying and tries to look for the Gods. When the other Vikings arrive, and ask where are their Gods he answers “I can’t see any and yet they’re praying with such passion” so no killing here. Floki is one of the characters through whom we navigate the spiritual realm within the series.
