Describe the life of the ancient Vikings. Where did they live? What did they do? Why were they feared?

Contrary to popular myths that portray all Vikings as intrepid warriors, most Vikings were farmers. Even those who participated in the attacks on Western Europe, or those who sailed east or west as traders, were farmers. After every robbery, war or road, they would return to their farms and continue their peaceful lives.

While looting proved to be an excellent source of income, they still could not replace farms that offered a much more stable income. During the absence of men, their wives took care of the farms.

True, some Vikings were classic pirates who abandoned their ships only when they were looting and burning villages, but still most were quietly glowing with barley, rye and oats. They also raised cattle, goats, pigs and sheep on their small estates, which were usually large enough to feed the whole family but not large enough to produce surplus food that could be sold or exchanged for other supplies.

They lived in smaller rural settlements. The dwellings were rectangular and elongated with low walls of wicker and clay or wood. The heart of the house is dominated by the hearth, which occupies most of the dwelling. The fire was both a source of heat and a source of light. The smoke opening was usually located above the hearth or on the gable. There were no windows or there would be one little one. Along the walls were benches that used to sit and sleep.

They feared gods. Prior to Christianity, the Vikings had a rich mythology (today we call it Nordic) and worshiped a number of gods by sacrificing them. It seems that sometimes human sacrifice was offered.