1) Unlike "Hollywood Vikings", our ancestors valued honour
and good manners as the basis for a successful social event. They were much
more particular about good behaviour than we are now, as the consequences
could be more severe. All we ask is that we all have a great time without
spoiling the enjoyment of others.
2) The Feast is founded on ancestral religious traditions. Please be
aware that there are a few sacred elements, namely: the short ceremonial
& formal toasts at the beginning, the banners, the Harrow (Odinnic shrine
& offering mead), and the Weapons Table. The abuse or disrespect of
these would be like washing your undies in the font of a church, or using
a Wiccan's Athame to pick your nails.
3) Most seriously, a feast was traditionally a time of truce. The Weapons
Table symbolises the Sacred Oath of each guest to observe the truce for
the occasion. Each group is encouraged to place a weapon on the table as
a token of conflict set aside. Dangerous or disrespectful handling of weapons
is the most grave offence to the Hosts, to the other Guests, and to Odin,
the deity of the Hall.
4) Unlike "Hollywood Vikings", our ancestors did not condone
excessive intoxication. It is great to be merry with a drink and good company,
but nobody enjoys someone who is out of control. As the Viking sacred book,
the Havamal, states:
| |
There is no better load a traveller can carry than a good store of common
sense,
And no worse load than too deep a draught of beer. (Havamal, Verse 11) |
5) We can not condone any other actions which are illegal or infringe on
the rights of others. We also respect the property of others. We are also
required by law to ask that no illegal substances be brought onto the site. |