Floki, also known as Hrafna-Flóki Vilgerðarson, is a historical figure from the Viking Age who is famous for his exploration and settlement attempts in Iceland. Here’s a detailed look at Floki:
Historical and Mythological Background
Name and Nickname:
Full Name: Hrafna-Flóki Vilgerðarson.
Nickname: “Hrafna” means “raven” in Old Norse, a nickname he earned because he used ravens to help navigate to Iceland.
Voyage to Iceland:
Navigation Method: Floki is best known for using ravens to find his way to Iceland. He took three ravens with him, releasing them one by one. The first raven flew back to the Faroe Islands, the second returned to the ship, but the third flew northwest and did not return, indicating the direction of land.
Discovery: Floki’s journey took him to the land that would later be known as Iceland. He is credited with giving Iceland its name. According to the “Landnámabók” (The Book of Settlements), Floki was not initially impressed with Iceland, especially after experiencing a harsh winter there.
Settlement Attempts:
Initial Struggles: Floki and his crew faced significant difficulties during their first winter in Iceland, which they were ill-prepared for. As a result, many of their livestock died, leading Floki to initially give a negative report about the land.
Return to Scandinavia: Despite his initial hardships, Floki’s reports eventually contributed to increased interest in Iceland among Norse settlers. Later accounts suggest that he returned to Iceland and settled more successfully.
Influence and Legacy:
Role in Settlement: Floki’s voyages are part of the larger Norse exploration and settlement efforts across the North Atlantic. His expeditions contributed to the eventual widespread settlement of Iceland by Norse people.
Cultural Impact: Floki’s adventurous spirit and his innovative use of ravens for navigation have made him a notable figure in Viking history and lore.
Portrayal in Popular Culture:
Character Traits:
Eccentric and Visionary: In the TV series, Floki (played by Gustaf Skarsgård) is depicted as an eccentric shipbuilder and a close friend of Ragnar Lothbrok. He is portrayed as deeply religious and fervently devoted to the Norse gods.
Innovative: Floki’s skills as a shipbuilder are highlighted by his creation of innovative longships, which play a crucial role in Viking exploration and raids.
Story Arc:
Complex Relationships: Throughout the series, Floki’s relationships with other characters, particularly Ragnar, are complex and evolve significantly, marked by loyalty, betrayal, and reconciliation.
Spiritual Journey: Floki’s storyline includes a deep spiritual journey, exploring his devotion to the gods and his struggles with the changing beliefs and influences of Christianity.
Floki Vilgerðarson, the historical Viking explorer known for discovering Iceland, was married to a woman named Gró. Here are some details about their life and journey:
Folki’s Wife
Voyage to Iceland: Floki Vilgerðarson set sail from Norway to find the land to the west. He was accompanied by his wife, Gró, and their children. They navigated using ravens, which helped them find Iceland.
In the TV series “Vikings,” the character Floki (played by Gustaf Skarsgård) has a different familial setup to historic archives:
- Helga: In the series, Floki is married to Helga, portrayed by Maude Hirst. Helga is a devoted and loving partner who stands by Floki through his many trials and adventures.
- Family Life: Floki and Helga have a daughter named Angrboda, named after a giantess in Norse mythology who is the mother of Loki’s monstrous children. Angrboda’s fate is tragic, deeply affecting both Floki and Helga.
Significance
- Historical vs. Fictional: The historical Floki’s wife, Gró, and his challenges in Iceland underscore the difficulties faced by early explorers and settlers. The fictional portrayal in the TV series adds emotional depth and complexity to his character through his relationship with Helga and their family dynamics.
In summary, the historical Floki Vilgerðarson was married to Gró, who accompanied him to Iceland, where they faced significant challenges as early settlers. In the TV series “Vikings,” Floki’s wife is Helga, and their relationship adds an emotional and personal dimension to his character’s story.
