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Title Culture, Violence and Desire: A Study on Mimetic Desire in the Netflix Series Vikings

Author(s) Mehak Shafi

Abstract This thesis examines the interplay of mimetic desire, violence, and religion in Viking culture as portrayed in the Netflix series Vikings. It posits that mimetic desire, a concept formulated by René Girard, serves as a fundamental driver of violence in Viking society, motivated by both cultural and religious aspirations. This study scrutinizes the depiction of Viking warriors’ pursuit of glory and the afterlife in Valhalla, elucidating how these desires manifest in acts of violence and the scapegoating mechanism. Through a detailed analysis of the first two seasons of Vikings, alongside theoretical insights from Girard, Per Bjornar Grande, and Wolfgang Palaver, the thesis explores the nexus of mimetic rivalry and sacrificial practices within the Norse religion. This exploration reveals the cultural and religious imperatives that shaped Viking behaviors and social dynamics, highlighting the complex interrelations between violence, desire, and religious beliefs. The narrative arcs of characters such as Ragnar Lothbrok provide profound insights into the mechanisms of mimetic desire and its role in sustaining social order through violence and sacrifice. This research offers a nuanced understanding of Viking culture and contributes to the broader discourse on mimetic theory and its application to historical and contemporary contexts.

Type Thesis/Dissertation

Faculty Languages

Department English

Language English

Publication Date 2025-04-11

Subject English Literature

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