Calico/Being Viking, 7. Kith and Kin

American Asatru initially idealized the image of the heroic Viking warrior. Over time, family and community life have taken on greater importance. Here, as in chapter 6, the interaction between ideology and ritual becomes important. Sumbel, another core ritual practice, is a socially oriented drinking ceremony. I examine how Heathens interpret and use the sumbel ritual to address issues of family, community, and belonging.