Viking longships were technologically advanced boats for their time which allowed the Vikings to become a dominate force in Europe in the 9th-11th centuries. These ships are the subject for this lesson on shape, line and space. As your students create a seascape with depth, they will feature a detailed boat that contains both organic and geometric shapes.

ABOUT LONGSHIPS Longships were wooden sea vessels made by Vikings in Scandinavia for trade, exploration and warfare during the Viking Age (800-1100 AD). The hull was designed to be shallow and lightweight to allow for beach landings and portaging (carrying the boat). Wooden shields were placed on the hull’s side to provide more space and to protect against the seawater. The boats are steered by a rudder and powered by wind (sails) and muscle (oars).