In Vikings, most characters, both male and female, sport tattoos. But what are the meanings behind Ragnar Lothbrok’s tattoos? Vikings premiered on History Channel in 2013 and are currently in its sixth season. Originally intended to be a miniseries, Vikings was quickly renewe for a second season, continuing the adventures of Ragnar, Lagertha, and Floki.
From the beginning of the Viking Age – marked by the Lindisfarne raid included in season 1 – onward, Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) and his Viking brothers embark on their adventures. Ragnar’s sons gradually became the protagonists of the series as the series shifted from his own travels to theirs. His legacy and presence could be felt in the subsequent seasons, and he came back in flashbacks and visions a couple of times.
Aside from his personality, goals, and motivations, Ragnar also changed physically over the course of four seasons, especially his tattoos. From the hairstyles to the fabrics, the Vikings’ creative team has paid careful attention to every detail. Ragnar’s tattoos have a specific meaning as well.
The Real Meaning Behind Ragnar’s Tattoos
Almost the entire top (and nape of the neck) of Ragnar Lothbrok’s head had been covere with tattoos. He had a simple raven tattoo on his head in season 1. In Norse mythology, Ragnar was a descendant of Odin, and the Allfather had two ravens as familiars: Huginn and Muninn. As Ragnar’s connection with Odin becomes apparent throughout the series, ravens appear quite frequently. In other words, the raven tattoo represents Odin’s guidance, presence, and mind.
Ragnar’s head tattoo became more detailed as the seasons passed. The left side of his body was decorate with symbols representing his warrior spirit and the interconnectedness of all things. Yggdrasil, a mythical tree in Norse cosmology that connects the Nine Worlds (also known as the tree of life), and a Viking ship head represented the Vikings’ spirit of adventure. A raven got lost in a sea of runes on the right side, representing death, war, knowledge, and Odin (of course). Further, the raven tattoo is believe to be associate with the raven banner of Ragnar’s sons, who declared war on Northumbria after their father died and form the Viking Great Heathen Army.
Ragnar Head Temporary Tattoo ideas
If you’re looking for Ragnar-inspired temporary tattoo ideas, here are a few:
- Ragnar’s Axe: A simple yet powerful temporary tattoo could be an image of Ragnar’s axe. You can make it look like it’s embedde in your skin or create a more cartoonish version.
- Viking Symbol: There are many Viking symbols you could incorporate into a temporary tattoo design, such as the Vegvisir, a magical symbol that helps guide lost travelers.
- Raven: Ravens were an important symbol in Viking culture and mythology. You could create a temporary tattoo of a raven in flight or perched on a branch.
- Runes: Viking runes were use for writing and divination. You could choose a rune that has personal significance and create a temporary tattoo of it.
- Portrait of Ragnar: If you want a more detailed temporary tattoo, you could have a portrait of Ragnar inked on your skin. Make sure to find a skilled artist who can capture his likeness accurately.
- Shield: Vikings were fierce warriors, and their shields were often decorate with intricate designs. You could create a temporary tattoo of a Viking shield with a design that represents strength and protection.
Ragnar Lothbrok Sleeve Tattoo
A Ragnar Lothbrok tattoo sleeve can be an impressive and meaningful design for fans of the Vikings TV show and those who appreciate Viking culture.
- Portrait of Ragnar: A full or half portrait of Ragnar can be a striking centerpiece for your sleeve tattoo. You can choose to have his head, torso, or full body inked on your skin, depending on the size and style of the tattoo.
- Viking Ship: Viking ships were an important part of their culture, and you can include a detailed representation of one in your sleeve tattoo. The ship can be shown sailing on the sea or in battle.
- Viking Symbols: You can incorporate Viking symbols like the Valknut, which represents the connection between life, death, and the afterlife, or the Mjolnir, which is Thor’s hammer and symbolizes strength and power.
- Norse Runes: Norse runes can be use to spell out words or phrases that hold personal significance for you. You can also use them to create designs and patterns within your sleeve tattoo.
- Battle Scenes: Ragnar was a fierce warrior, and you can include battle scenes in your tattoo sleeve to represent his fighting spirit. The scenes can show him leading his troops or fighting enemies on the battlefield.
Ragnar Lothbrok Full Head Tattoo
A Ragnar Lothbrok full head tattoo can be a bold and unique design for those who want to make a statement with their tattoo. However, a full head tattoo is a significant commitment, and it’s essential to carefully consider the design and its potential impact on your personal and professional life.
If you’re considering a Ragnar Lothbrok full head tattoo, here are some ideas to consider
- Portrait of Ragnar: A full head tattoo of Ragnar’s portrait can be a powerful and striking design that showcases your admiration for the character and the Viking culture.
- Viking Symbols: Incorporating Viking symbols into your full head tattoo can add depth and meaning to the design. You can choose symbols like the Helm of Awe, which represents protection and power, or the Yggdrasil tree, which symbolizes the interconnectedness of all things.
- Norse Runes: Using Norse runes to spell out words or phrases that hold personal significance for you can add a personal touch to your full-head tattoo design.
- Realistic Viking Helm: A realistic Viking helmet can be incorporate into your full head tattoo design, either as a stand-alone piece or as part of a larger design.
- Abstract Viking Art: You can also consider an abstract Viking art design for your full head tattoo, incorporating elements like Vikings’ ships, dragons, or geometric patterns that represent strength and power.
Raven Ragnar Head Tattoo
Ragnar Head Tattoo Template
Stencil Ragnar Head Tattoo
FAQs
SERIOUSLY, HEAD TATTOOS HURT!
The skin on your head is the thinnest and, therefore, more prone to bleeding than anywhere else on your body. Additionally, your skull is completely surrounde by nerve endings and contains numerous nerve endings.
According to most sources, tattoos generally take about two weeks to heal. After the skin has recovered, it may take up to four weeks for it to look normal again. Some complications may prolong healing. As a general rule, a person should expect the following
The scalp should not be touche, scratches, shaved, or combed after treatment. Infection-causing bacteria or germs should not be introduce. Use your fingertips instead of your fingernails if your scalp feels itchy. If the pigment is not remove, you can scratch it off.
The wrap that was applie by a tattoo artist is often recommende for sleeping. It is also recommende that you re-wrap the tattoo, or just apply healing ointment and keep it clean. Infection prevention is of utmost importance
You have to treat your scalp very carefully for four days after each scalp micropigmentation procedure. Your hair can be washe with baby shampoo and water after that, and you can return to your normal routine.
It’s understandable that people wonder, “Do tattoos affect hair follicles?” and the short answer is that tattoos are unlikely to affect hair follicles or prevent effective hair growth. Tattoo pigments are not deposite in your dermis layer, contrary to popular belief.