Berserkers "Dance" T-shirt - Historical Viking Age fresco Inspired Artwork, Pagan Wiccan Apparel with Viking/Celtic Motifs Art - Norse Pagan Fashion 2024 Edition (Check size chart to choose right one, fast delivery in United Kingdom) Unleash the Power of the Berserkers: Warriors in a Trance-Like Fury! Dive into the ancient Norse world of berserkers, fierce warriors who fought in a trance-like fury, leaving a legacy that inspired the modern English word "berserk." Here's a glimpse into their fascinating history: Etymology: Unveiling the Origin The term "berserker" likely means "bear-shirt" or "someone who wears a coat made out of a bear's skin." Initially, it was believed that these warriors entered battle without armor, but this view has evolved over time. Origins: From Hunting Magic to Battle Some scholars propose that the berserker tradition originated from hunting magic. Animal cults, including the cult of the bear, wolf, and wild boar, played a significant role. The bas-relief carvings on Trajan's column in Rome even depict scenes that may show early Germanic warriors with bear and wolf symbolism. Berserkers – Bear Warriors: Unleashing the Power of the Bear It's suggested that berserkers drew their power from the bear and were devoted to the bear cult, once widespread across the northern hemisphere. Even in the heat of battle, they maintained their religious observances, as evidenced by the Svarfdæla saga. In battle, berserkers unleashed fits of frenzy, howling like wild beasts, foaming at the mouth, and gnawing the rims of their shields. Legend has it that during these fits, they were immune to steel and fire, wreaking havoc in the ranks of their enemies. Ulfheðnar – Wolf Warriors: Warriors Clad in Wolf-Skins The tradition of wolf warriors, known as Ulfheðnar, also emerged. Clad in wolf pelts, they were mentioned in various sagas, presenting an elite following of the first Norwegian king Harald Fairhair. Their wolf-skin symbolism and unique battle style set them apart. "Jöfurr" – Proposed Boar Warriors: Transforming into Boars for Battle Swine played a central role in Germanic paganism, and it's proposed that warriors could ritually transform into boars to gain strength, bravery, and protection in battle. Boar helmets were suggested as ritual costumes in this transformative process. Attestations: Berserkers in Sagas and Poems Berserkers were prominently featured in sagas and poems, initially portrayed as bodyguards, elite soldiers, and champions of kings. Over time, the image shifted to describe them as boasters and ravenous marauders. The Berserker State: Hamask and Beyond To "go berserk" was to "hamask," translating to "change form" or "enter a state of wild fury." Scholars have interpreted this transformation as "hamrammr" or "shapestrong," allowing berserkers to shapeshift, possibly into a bear's form. The Legacy: Beyond Fury and Frenzy Berserkers left an indelible mark on Norse history, inspiring awe and fear. Whether clad in bear-skins, wolf-skins, or possibly transforming into boars, these warriors embodied a unique and ferocious spirit that has endured through centuries. Discover more about the legendary berserkers and their intriguing history, a captivating journey into the heart of Norse mythology! Visit https://keltenknoten.etsy.com KeltenKnoten Etsy Shop for real Viking and Celtic Art and Fashion. PRINT AND COLORS __ Please Check All Photos for Details * *Due to monitor differences, actual colors may vary slightly from what appears online** Please reach out to us if you have an issue with your shirt and we will work with our print provider to correct any issues. Our goal is to make sure our customers are happy with our products. SIZING __ This is a UNISEX shirt, please refer to the size guide in the images before choosing a size. DESCRIPTION The unisex heavy cotton tee is the basic staple of any wardrobe. It is the foundation upon which casual fashion grows. All it needs is a personalized design to elevate things to profitability. The specially spun fibers provide a smooth surface for premium printing vividity and sharpness. No side seams mean there are no itchy interruptions under the arms. The shoulders have tape for improved durability. .: Made with medium fabric (5.3 oz/yd² (180 g/m²)) consisting of 100% cotton for year-round comfort that is sustainable and highly durable. .: The classic fit of this shirt ensures a comfy, relaxed wear while the crew neckline adds that neat, timeless look that can blend into any occasion, casual or semi-formal. .: The tear-away label means a scratch-free experience with no irritation or discomfort whatsoever. .: Made using 100% US cotton that is ethically grown and harvested. Gildan is also a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol ensuring ethical and sustainable means of production. This blank tee is certified by Oeko-Tex for safety and quality assurance. CARE INSTRUCTIONS __ Do not bleach Tumble dry: low heat Iron, steam or dry: medium heat Do not dry clean Machine wash: cold (max 30C or 90 F) Wash inside out to protect the print PRODUCTION TIME / SHIPPING TIME Please review each estimated shipping time per product. During this last months of the year production and shipping may take up to 10 days. QUESTIONS? __ We have a goal of responding to all inquiries within 12 hours! Thank you for considering KeltenKnoten!:)