Where the Vikings barbaric?

The Vikings are often portrayed as violent and barbaric men, who attacked monasteries and raided villages. While they had a violent history, many believe today that the Vikings were no more cruel than any other army of the time.

Historical sources also often depict the fanatical Viking raiders as berserkers. Berserkers were Viking men who worked themselves into a frenzied state before running wildly into battle, usually with little more than a shield.

The Vikings believed themselves to be honorable fighters who did not attack farmers, traders or women. Many Vikings were actually farmers and traders.