The name of these demented Odin-worshipping warriors derives from the Old Norse berserkr, meaning 'bearskin'. Hiring themselves out throughout pre-medieval Europe and the Near East, when these mercenaries did not rush into battle naked they wore bear- or wolf-skins, thus by their ferocity helping to develop the werewolf legend of blood-lusting men who raped and murdered at will. It is saidthat to incite their bloodlust and bravery furthur they would, before battle, eat the hallucinogenic toadstool Amanita muscaria.
I would be running into battle naked too if you'd ask me to wear bear-skin....itchy!! Ouch!!
