Berserker

MPS Hohenwestedt 27

027 Conrad Cichorius, Die Reliefs der Traianssäule, Tafel XXVII (cropped)

Gallehus horns, animal head characters

Torslundaplåtarna - Historiska museet - 618349 HST - 324349 (cropped)

Gundestrupkedlen- 00054 (cropped)

Berserkers were warriors in Norse mythology and Scandinavian history who are primarily reported in the Old Norse literature to have fought in a nearly uncontrollable, trance-like fury, a characteristic which later gave rise to the English word 'berserk'. These warriors are often thought to have worn bear or wolf skins in battle, which is reflected in their name; 'berserker' is derived from the Old Norse berserkr, which is likely a compound of ber- (bear) and serkr (coat).

Etymology and Origins

The term berserkr can be broken down into ber- (bear) and serkr (coat), suggesting that these warriors wore bear skins into battle. Another theory suggests that the ber- component could be related to bare, indicating that the berserkers might have gone into battle without armor. The origins of the berserker tradition are a matter of some debate among historians, but it is generally believed that the practice has pre-Christian roots in Norse society.

Characteristics

Berserkers are described in medieval sources as fighting in a trance-like fury, a state that was both feared and revered by their contemporaries. This state is believed to have enhanced their strength, endurance, and resistance to pain. Various theories have been proposed to explain this behavior, ranging from self-induced hysteria, psychological warfare tactics, to the consumption of substances that could alter mental states.

In Literature and Sagas

Berserkers feature prominently in a variety of Old Norse literature, including sagas and poems. In these texts, they are often depicted as invincible warriors who could clear vast swathes of enemies before them. However, their uncontrollable nature also made them dangerous to friends and foes alike. The Saga of the Volsungs, for example, describes berserkers as warriors who could transform into animals or adopt their characteristics in battle.

Historical Accounts

Historical accounts of berserkers are somewhat scarce, leading to some debate over their existence and nature. Some scholars suggest that the berserker phenomenon may have been exaggerated or mythologized over time. However, references in Old Norse literature and laws enacted to curb their excesses suggest that berserkers did indeed play a role in Norse society, particularly in the Viking Age.

Modern Interpretations

In modern times, the concept of the berserker has been romanticized and has become a staple of fantasy literature and games. The image of the fierce warrior losing themselves in the heat of battle continues to captivate the imagination. However, contemporary interpretations often overlook the social and religious aspects of the berserker tradition in favor of focusing on their martial prowess.

See Also

• Viking Age
• Norse mythology
• Old Norse literature
• Warrior culture