ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses continuity of the use and performance of the Nordic for political goals and for the power of changing conceptualization in order to influence politics. During the nineteenth and twentieth century's, however, the transnational ideas of Nordicness transformed into politically significant and characterizing ideas of a naturally peaceful, democratic and egalitarian community. A Nordic dimension was central to cultural policy and identity on several scenes in all Nordic countries in the twentieth century. Values identified as Nordic have ranged from rustic, courageous, heathen and violent to Protestant ethics, secularism, social egalitarianism, individualism, democratic culture, pragmatism and the welfare state. Catholic Church items dominate the early collections of mediaeval culture in Nordic museums, complemented later by items illustrating traditional crafts and everyday life. The Viking burial ships in Norway and Denmark are aesthetic objects signalling the craft, skill and bravery, exhibited in national institutions.
