In the pre-Christian era, married women in Scandinavia held a formidable position, sometimes seen as more important than men. This equality was visually expressed through the use of keys, a stark contrast to the changes brought about by the advent of Christianity in the region.
Upon marriage, a symbolic gesture unfolded – the wife was presented with a set of keys, signifying her newly acquired status, often referred to as being "given to lock and key." These gleaming bronze keys adorned her clothing prominently, often accompanied by a small knife or a pair of scissors.
Historical literature reveals that affluent Viking women, particularly those wedded, routinely carried keys among their personal possessions. The key, in this context, served as a tangible representation of the woman's role as a housewife and the head of the household.
A significant portion of these keys emerged from the graves of women, showcasing various types crafted from materials like iron, bronze, or a combination of both. Notably, many of these finds consist of bronze or iron keys featuring two bends, characteristic of the latter Viking Era.
Beyond its symbolic role, the key also functioned literally, unlocking possessions as evidenced by the findings in graves. Interestingly, this practice is linked to an old superstition that warned against placing keys on a table to avert bad luck.
The superstition originated from the belief that if a man displayed his keys on a table, it conveyed an implicit desire for the woman to become his wife and assume the responsibilities of managing his household. This subtle act carried profound cultural implications, reflecting the intricate interplay between symbolism, social roles, and superstitions in Viking society.
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