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Ragnar Is A Composite Legendary Figure
- Ragnar Lothbrok likely mixes several historical figures and legendary stories rather than being a single verifiable person.
- Chronicles record real sons and raids, but the Ragnar figure accumulates myths across regions and times.
How Ragnar Got 'Hairy Breeches'
- The saga explains Ragnar earned 'hairy breeches' by coating a sheep-fleece suit in tar to survive a venomous serpent's poison.
- He stabs the beast and presents the spear shaft as proof, winning Princess Thora's hand and the byname.
Ragnar As Symbol Of Expansion
- Ragnar's legend functions less as the origin of Viking raids and more as a symbolic leader whose sons extend Scandinavian influence.
- The saga presents him as a founder figure for a radiating Viking sphere across the North Sea and beyond.