A Norwegian college is starting a programme for wannabe Vikings where students will learn essential Viking crafts, such as sword forging, jewellery making, and roof thatching.
Vikings were seafaring marauders. They were scattered over Scandinavia and across northern and central Europe. They spoke the old Norse language.
During the course at Seljord Folkehogskule, 150 km west of capital Oslo, students -- many inspired by famous television series 'Game of Thrones' -- will celebrate Norse rituals of the year, going so far as to make animal sacrifices during the winter feast, The Local news portal reported.
"We see a large number of applicants who have applied for different reasons," the school's principal, Arve Husby, told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
"Some have become interested through TV series and others want to learn handicraft. We give a high quality education, and if TV series get people interested, we are happy."
The school's leading Viking teacher is Jeppe Nordmann Garly, a Dane who describes himself as a "recreational Viking", having spent much of his life trying to get as close as possible to the Viking experience.
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"You could say that I am the first Viking teacher," said Normann Garly, who professes to enjoying Viking-themed TV dramas. "Personally I prefer 'Game of Thrones'. 'Vikings' has too many factual errors."
Students at the school will also have the opportunity to row Viking ships, learn ceramics and woodworks.