Virtual Lectures via Zoom Webinar

Virtual Lecture Series – The Nordic Nations: A History

Tuesdays, January 10 to February 28, 2023 – 10:00 am to 12:00 noon

January 10: Introduction to the Course and the Vikings

An overview of the course, including the diverse landscapes of the various Nordic Nations, the earliest evidence of settlement in the region and the contacts between northern Europe and the Roman Empire.

The beginning of the Viking Age in the 800s, Viking culture in Scandinavia, including shipbuilding, weaponry, religious ritual and the family.

January 17: The Vikings in Europe and North America

The influence of the Vikings on the wider world. The Vikings travelled as far west as Newfoundland, as far east as Russia and as far south as Constantinople and Baghdad. In the north they were raiders and in the south they were traders, but they shaped the course of history everywhere they travelled.

January 24: Christianity, Renaissance and Reformation

Religious change transformed Viking society as first monarchs and then the wider population converted to Christianity. During the Reformation, the Nordic Nations embraced Lutheran Protestantism and allied with Protestant nations in Europe.

January 31: The Golden Age of Sweden

During the 17^th century, Sweden emerged as a major European power, controlling much of the Baltic Sea region. King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden introduced key military innovations and his daughter, Queen Christina, became a cultural patron. The Golden Age of Sweden ended with the Great Northern War and the rise of Russia as a major European power during the reign of Peter the Great.

February 7: The Grand Duchy of Finland and Royal Denmark

In the 19^th century, the borders shifted in the Nordic Nations. Finland became part of the Russian Empire, Sweden and Norway were ruled by the same monarch and Denmark lost territory to Germany. The Danish royal family was closely connected to other European royal houses and exerted diplomatic influence through its connections with other reigning houses.

February 14: Emigration to North America

The upheaval of the 19^th century resulted in waves of emigration to North America and the wider world. Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Icelandic and Finnish emigrants remained interested and engaged in European events shaping the Nordic Nations, including the Norwegian independence movement in the early 20^th century.

February 21: Art and Literature, Science and Exploration

From Viking sagas and jewellery-making, the plays of Henrik Ibsen and the paintings of Edvard Munch to modern Nordic architecture and design, Nordic art and literature continue to engage the wider world. For centuries, the Nordic Nations have produced influential mariners, explorers and scientists. The Nobel Prizes have been presented in Sweden and Norway for more than 100 years.

February 28: The Second World War and the Nordic Nations in the Modern World

The modern history of the Nordic Nations from the Second World War to the strengths and challenges of the present day.

Dr. Carolyn Harris is an instructor in history at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. She is the author of three books: Magna Carta and Its Gifts to Canada, Queenship and Revolution in Early Modern Europe and Raising Royalty: 1000 Years of Royal Parenting. She is the editor of the forthcoming English Consorts: Power, Influence and Dynasty series. She frequently contributes historical and royal commentary to the media.