For Vikings Bergin conducted extensive research, visiting museums in
Stockholm and Norway, seeking advice from scholars and studying
artefacts from the famous Viking site at Woodquay, Dublin. What emerged
from her research was a picture of a complex, democratic society that took
great pride in their health and appearance. whose clothing were an
astonishing combination of arts, crafts, and skills. Played by Katheryn
Winnick, the legendary figure of Lagertha fights alongside the men in shield
walls. When realising Winnick’s costumes, Bergin used embroidery and Irish
tweeds.
‘The most surprising thing about Viking women was that they were skilled
weavers and dyers. Some of their ceremonial dresses had all the artistry of
a wall hanging. The character of Lagertha who was also a shield maiden
spent a lot of time during the shoot in battle ready attire. Her dresses had
to show her advancing status towards eventual ruler’. Joan Bergin (2020)