Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
Spring 5-7-2025
Faculty Advisor(s)
Jeffrey Koerber
Abstract
This research investigates how the Christianization of Scandinavia between the 800s and 1100s transformed Nordic political culture, particularly in relation to governance, kingship, and Scandinavia's integration into European Christendom. The adoption of Christianity contributed to the centralization of power, replacing the previous decentralized chieftain-based system with hereditary monarchies legitimized through Christian ideology. Additionally, the establishment of church institutions played a critical role in administrative development, reinforcing royal authority and expanding government structures. Methodologically, this study analyzes historical texts such as Heimskringla by Snorri Sturluson, which offers a narrative perspective on Christianization. Archaeological evidence, including church remains, runestones, and burial sites further illustrate the material and symbolic transformations that accompanied religious change. By synthesizing these textual and material sources, this research builds on the scholarship of Anders Winroth and Nora Berend, whose work emphasize the intersection of ideology and political evolution in medieval Scandinavia. The findings suggest that Christianization was not merely a religious transition but a catalyst for significant political change. Kings leveraged Christianity to consolidate power, weaken rival chieftains, and establish structured administrations modeled after European counterparts. The church provided a literate clerical class that aided in governance, while religious reforms integrated Scandinavia into the broader European political and cultural sphere. Ultimately, this study highlights the influence of religion on state formation, demonstrating how Christianization reshaped Nordic political identity and laid the foundation for the medieval Scandinavian kingdoms.
Recommended Citation
Chinnery, Carissa, "From Pagan Chieftains to Christian Kings: Shaping Medieval Nordic Political Culture" (2025). Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters. 745.
https://digitalcommons.chapman.edu/cusrd_abstracts/745
Comments
Presented at the Spring 2025 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.