Viking Keys from Sweden

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James Blake Wiener
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published on 12 December 2018
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Keys were a powerful symbol of control over the household goods in Viking Scandinavia. The lady of the house, known as the "husfreyja," or "goddess of the house," would always wear the keys on her belt, even taking them with her to the grave. These keys date from c. 800-1000 CE and come from what is present-day Sweden. (National Historical Museum, Stockholm.)

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About the Author

James Blake Wiener
James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of World History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Wiener, J. B. (2018, December 12). Viking Keys from Sweden. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/9706/viking-keys-from-sweden/

Chicago Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Viking Keys from Sweden." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified December 12, 2018. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/9706/viking-keys-from-sweden/.

MLA Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Viking Keys from Sweden." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 12 Dec 2018. Web. 15 Feb 2025.

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