Animals

Definition

Animals in the context of picture stones refer to the various creatures depicted in the carved imagery, which provide insight into the beliefs, culture, and daily life of the people who created them. These representations often include both real and mythical animals, showcasing their significance in Norse mythology, symbolism, and as integral parts of the Viking society's relationship with nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Picture stones frequently depict animals that had a strong symbolic meaning in Viking culture, such as horses representing status and power.
2. The portrayal of animals on picture stones can provide information about hunting practices and the importance of different species in the Viking diet.
3. Some animals depicted are part of Norse mythology; for instance, Odin's ravens symbolize wisdom and knowledge.
4. Animals carved on these stones can also reflect trade relations or connections with neighboring cultures through the representation of exotic species.
5. These carvings serve not only an artistic purpose but also act as historical records that reveal how Vikings perceived and interacted with the animal world.

Review Questions

• How do the depictions of animals on picture stones reflect the cultural beliefs of the Vikings?
  • The depictions of animals on picture stones reflect Viking cultural beliefs by symbolizing various values such as strength, power, and protection. For instance, the horse often signifies status among the elite, while mythical creatures like dragons may represent formidable challenges or divine power. These images serve as visual narratives that connect the Viking worldview with their interactions with nature and mythology.
• Discuss the significance of animal representations in understanding Viking trade practices and social structure.
  • Animal representations on picture stones offer significant insights into Viking trade practices and social structure by indicating which species were valued for commerce or status. For example, depicting exotic animals could imply successful trade routes and cultural exchanges with distant lands. Additionally, the prominence of certain animals can highlight social hierarchy; noble families might have depicted more prestigious animals like horses to signify their wealth and status within society.
• Evaluate how studying animals on picture stones contributes to our understanding of Viking interactions with their environment and neighboring cultures.
  • Studying animals on picture stones enhances our understanding of Viking interactions with their environment and neighboring cultures by revealing how they viewed and utilized wildlife. The carvings provide evidence of hunting practices, domestication of certain species, and spiritual connections to nature. Moreover, these representations can show how Vikings adapted to their surroundings and formed relationships with other cultures through trade and exchange of goods related to animal resources.

Related terms

Mythical Creatures: Supernatural beings that are part of folklore and mythology, often represented in Viking art and literature, such as dragons and griffins.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to convey deeper meanings or ideas; in picture stones, animals often symbolize power, protection, or other cultural values.

Norse Mythology: The body of myths of the North Germanic peoples, centered around gods, goddesses, and creatures that played essential roles in Viking beliefs and storytelling.