I've actually really enjoyed how much depth of culture, including their understanding of equality as expressed in feminism, even a recognition of the humanity of slaves, and openness to other cultures, which they had in common with Ghengis Khan, who is also usually misunderstood as simply a pillager. To be sure, the Vikings and Mongols (but lets not pretend that our anscestors from every continent haven't done the same) were cruel and violent. But they weren't JUST cruel or violent.
In these interesting American times, Facebook posts describing the culture in modern Nordic cultures as deeply enlightened, cooperative, and the structure is welcomed by a very happy population. It's been interesting considering Viking history for the first time in my life, and reconciling the TV show with the Norwegians I've met, and the image created by those posts. Even American Minnesotans, which include many Norwegians, are known for being soft-spoken, and pragmatic, like Garrison Keillor. Not like Floki.