Power and aristocracy in the Viking Age
In the Viking Age Denmark underwent rapid development. The first kings emerged and royal power became stronger and more visible. This royal power was based upon military strength, personal alliances and foreign contacts. Behind the kings were clever craftsmen, who designed and built bridges, vessels and fortresses of a size and quality that had not been seen before.
On rune stones we can read Viking inscriptions that praise bravery in battle and honour deceased family members. However, not all Vikings were so lucky. At the bottom of society were the slaves, who lived in miserable conditions.
