Courses / Module

Vikings occupy an important place in the modern cultural imagination, but who exactly were they and what impact did they have in Ireland? This module explores representations of the Vikings in medieval sources and popular culture, shedding light on their origins, their first raids on Ireland from the late eighth century and their later settlements on the island. This module will explore questions of ethnic identity, immigration, gender, urbanisation and the cultural legacy of Vikings in Ireland and the wider medieval world. The historical reality of the Vikings will be contrasted with their representation in films and TV shows in the modern era.