Ancient Scandinavians and Their Knowledge of the Roman Empire and Greek Culture

The ancient Scandinavians were not isolated from the rest of the ancient world; they had vibrant connections and exchanges with the Roman Empire and Greek culture. This essay explores the extent of their knowledge and interactions, backed by historical evidence and scholarly research.

The Roman Empire and Ancient Scandinavians

While the exact extent of the ancient Scandinavians' knowledge of the Roman Empire may vary, there is substantial evidence to suggest significant interactions and influences. The Roman historian John of Chrysostom documented the relationship between the Roman Empire and the Goths, a significant group of Scandinavian peoples. This relationship spanned from the second to the seventh century AD, particularly with the Visigoths and Ostrogoths. Roman artifacts found in locations including Scandinavia, such as those discovered in Illerup ?dal, indicate that trade was well-established between Roman and Scandinavian merchants.

Contacts and Connections with the Roman World

For more detailed information on the interactions between ancient Rome and Danes, you can refer to the book “The Spoils of War: The North in the Shadow of the Roman Empire” edited by L. Jorgensen, B. Storgaard, and L. G. Thomsen, published by the National Museum of Denmark in 2003. This book provides a comprehensive look at the Roman influence on the North, including trade, warfare, and cultural exchanges.

The Varangian Guard and Norse Mercenaries

The Varangian Guard, the Byzantine Emperor's elite bodyguard, offers another significant example of Norse proximity to the Roman world. Composed of Norse mercenaries, the Varangians, or Vrangar in Old Norse, were sought after for their strength and reliability. The term "Varyags" (varanger) was commonly used to describe these Norse warriors, particularly in Eastern Europe. The Varangian Guard later included Germanic mercenaries, such as noble Anglo-Saxons after the Norman conquest of England, showcasing the interconnected nature of these groups during the medieval period.

Language and Cultural Exchanges

Runes, a writing system used by the ancient Scandinavians, show clear evidence of Roman influence. Based on Etruscan and Roman letters, runes were widely used across Scandinavia. Discovery of Roman goods and coins in Scandinavia, such as in the Hagia Sophia and other places around the Mediterranean, also support this connection. Furthermore, the existence of east Asian silk and a small Buddha figure from northern India in Scandinavian finds demonstrates the broad cultural and commercial exchanges.

The Importance of Waterways in Ancient Trade

The sea and rivers were crucial for long-distance travel and trade in the ancient world. In fact, the Norse people were exceptionally skilled at building and navigating boats, which facilitated their interactions with distant cultures. This mobility helped them engage in extensive trade and cultural exchanges, not just within the Germanic-speaking areas but also with the broader ancient world.

For instance, the TV series Vikings has been criticized for its portrayal of the Norse people as isolated and ignorant. In reality, the sea was a vital connection between ancient cultures, and the Norse people were by no means unaware of the wider world. Their knowledge and interactions with the Roman Empire and other cultures are well-documented and can be traced through archaeological findings and historical records.