The Ascent of Civilization Season 1 Episode 3 How the Vikings Changed the World

The Ascent of Civilization season 1 episode 3, "How the Vikings Changed the World," takes a deep dive into the impact that Viking culture had on the world and how it still affects us today. The episode begins by exploring the origins of the Vikings and their early raids, highlighting the effectiveness of their maritime technology and tactics.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey to various locations across Europe where the Vikings made their mark, including modern-day Iceland, England, France, and Russia. Through interviews with experts and visits to historical sites, we learn about the specific ways in which the Vikings influenced culture, politics, and technology in these regions.

One example explored in the episode is the Viking settlement of Iceland. We see how the Vikings brought their own unique legal system to the island, known as the Althing, which allowed for peaceful resolution of disputes and helped establish a sense of community among the settlers. We also learn about the rich literary tradition that developed in Iceland, including the saga stories that are still read and studied today.

Moving on to England, we see how the Vikings violently invaded the country in the 9th and 10th centuries, forever changing its political landscape. We hear from experts about how the Vikings established their own settlements in England and assimilated into the culture there, bringing with them their own language and customs.

In France, the Vikings made their mark by establishing the region of Normandy. We see how this Norman culture, which was a fusion of Viking and French influences, would go on to have a major impact on European history, including the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

Finally, the episode explores the legacy of the Vikings in Russia, where they established the trading center of Novgorod. We see how the Vikings brought their advanced shipbuilding techniques to Russia, allowing them to trade with other parts of Europe and beyond.

Throughout the episode, we also see how the Vikings were skilled craftsmen, producing intricate and beautiful objects such as jewelry, clothing, and weapons. By exploring these objects, we gain insight into the daily lives of the Vikings and the complexity of their culture.

Overall, "How the Vikings Changed the World" offers a fascinating look into the impact that this group of people had on the world, both during their time and in the centuries since. Through expert interviews, historical reenactments, and visits to important sites, viewers gain a deeper understanding of how the Vikings helped shape the world we live in today.