What were Those 300 Women Doing?
History’s full of famous 300s:
- Sparta’s 300 vs. thousands of Persians at Thermopylae
- Gideon’s 300 vs thousands of Midianites near the Hill of Moreh
- But ever heard of 300 women warriors at the Battle of Bravalla?
Travel past ancient times to the 8th century and you find 300 shield maidens who fought for Danish King Harold Wartooth against Swedish King Sigurd.
Medieval historian Saxo Grammitcus and the Norse Hervarar Saga record their rather unique names and feats of fury.
Some of the women who joined the fray? Einar the Fatbellied, Grette the Evil, and Blig Bignose.
Can’t you just picture these women?
Einar, Grette, and Blig were part of 300 women who showed up for battle, but not to be outdone, history tells of other brave Norsewomen.
Leif Ericson’s pregnant half-sister, Freydis, didn’t let pregnancy or being undressed stop her. While in Vinland, natives attacked the pregnant woman’s home. She grabbed a sword, dashed out bare-breasted and partially clothed, going on counter-attack.
And the natives went running!
Freydis never gained the title shield maiden in the Greenland Saga. But, if you’re fearless enough to chase half-naked after attackers (while pregnant!), doesn’t that deserve honorary shield maiden status? By the way, Freydis came away unscathed.
History Channel’s Vikings series has brought to life another famous shield maiden, Lagertha Lothbrok. Saxo Grammaticus records some of her feats, in particular how Lagertha fought a battle for Ragnar Lothbrok, saving him from defeat by leading a flank attack.
The sagas refer to Lagertha’s “delicate frame” and her “matchless spirit.” That’s Saga-speak for “she was a hot babe with battle skills. Don’t mess with her.”
Vikings fans, remember…“You couldn’t kill me if you tried for a hundred years?”
In honor of our favorite Norsewoman, here’s a clip from History Channel on shieldmaidens where Lagertha talks about the famous 300.
Click this link and scroll down to the video: Shield Maidens Video Clip
But, before you leave, please tell us about a woman in history you admire and why. I’d love to hear from you!
Cheers to you, Reader!
Gina
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Great post! I love Lagertha from the tv show and am curious to see what will happen when Ragnar returns. Why do I have to wait!
Freydis! My next book will be about Freydis. She was something else, and is so vivid in my mind! Thanks for this info on Lagertha! I’m glad to know the miniseries is using some of those saga stories. Great post, Gina!
Hi,
So glad you liked the post. There’s more Viking women news coming this summer on the blog. Everytime I read about Lagertha, I’m more amazed by her. In the last episode, she showed such brains and balance and heart. Will be interesting to see what History Cahnnel does with her storyline.
Have a great day!
Gina
Hi Heather,
YAY! That’s good news that you’ll write about Freydis. Maybe we can have you on for another guest post about some in depth information on her. I picture a whole series on the Viking women of North America!! Gudrid, Freydis and ??
Hae a great day, Heather-
Gina
Hi Noemi,
I know what you mean about the wait. Ugh! I DVRed each episode and am waiting for the DVD to come out. I even made the show’s theme song my ringtone. Lagertha rocks!
Take care-
Gina
Gina Conkle, Meet the Earl at Midnight – …
One of my favorite warrior women is Boudicca, Queen of the Iceni (sp?). Rome attempted to annex her kingdom after her husband’s death. It took more than 3 legions to subdue the uprising she organized and led.
Hi Kim,
Boudicca was a powerhouse woman. I’ll bet you read lots of books featuring her.
Gina