Atgeir

Njal saga - Gunnars atgeir

Atgeir is a type of polearm that was used in Scandinavia during the Viking Age. The atgeir is sometimes referred to in English as a Viking spear, but it is distinguished from other spears by its unique design and function. The weapon features a long shaft, typically made of wood, with a metal spearhead. What sets the atgeir apart from other spears is the addition of a hook or blade on the reverse side of the spearhead, which could be used to catch an opponent's weapon or to pull a rider from their horse.

Design and Use

The atgeir was designed for both thrusting and slashing, with the spearhead allowing for piercing attacks and the hook or blade on the reverse for cutting or snagging. The length of the atgeir varied, but it was generally long enough to allow the wielder to reach an opponent at a distance, making it an effective weapon for both infantry and cavalry engagements. The shaft was often made from ash or another sturdy wood, providing both flexibility and strength.

Historical Context

The atgeir is most famously associated with the Viking Age, a period that spans from the late 8th century to the early 11th century. Vikings used a variety of weapons, including swords, axes, and bows, but the atgeir holds a special place in Norse culture and literature. It is mentioned in several sagas and historical texts, highlighting its importance as a weapon of choice among Viking warriors.

Cultural Significance

In Norse sagas, the atgeir is often depicted as a weapon of great warriors and heroes. One of the most famous atgeir wielders was Gunnar Hámundarson, a legendary Icelandic hero whose skill with the weapon was renowned. The sagas describe how the atgeir could be used with great precision and lethality, capable of defeating multiple opponents in skilled hands.

Modern Depictions

In modern times, the atgeir has been featured in various forms of media, including books, movies, and video games, often highlighting its historical and cultural significance. These depictions have contributed to a renewed interest in Viking history and weaponry, with the atgeir being a symbol of the fierce and skilled warriors of the Norse world.

See Also

• Viking Age
• Polearm
• Norse mythology
• Gunnar Hámundarson