50+ Facts That Will Change the Way You Watch Netflix’s “Vikings”

When the Vikings Had a Thing, It Was a Meeting

The Viking “thing” wasn’t a strange item but rather a crucial assembly. The word “thing” comes from Old Norse “þing,” meaning a gathering or assembly. These were democratic platforms where free men gathered to pass laws, settle disputes, and make collective decisions.

The thing was a foundational element of Viking governance and served as a court and legislative body. It also showcased the surprisingly organized and communal aspect of Viking life, contrasting the often-portrayed image of chaos and raiding.

NEXT: We call them Vikings. What did they call themselves?

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