Gothicism

Gothicism or Gothism (Swedish: Göticism Swedish pronunciation: [ˈjøːtɪsˌɪsm]; Latin: Gothicismus) was an ethno-cultural ideology and cultural movement in Sweden, which took honor in being a Swede, for being purportedly related to the Goths. This was a result of a resolute decades long effort from Swedish writers, scholars and historical revisionists alike dedicated towards proving that the Goths had originated from Götaland and wherefrom their name was etymologically derived. This premise, however, has been heavily contested and met with scepticism by a number of eminent historians such as Carlo Troya who is esteemed as a leading figure on Italian history during the early middle ages. The founders of the movement were Nicolaus Ragvaldi and the brothers Johannes and Olaus Magnus. The belief continued to hold power in the 17th century, when Sweden was a great power following the Thirty Years' War, but lost most of its sway in the 18th. It was renewed by the Viking revival and Romantic nationalism in the early 19th century, this time with the Vikings as heroic figures.