Discovering Viking Roots: An Unveiling of the Marlow Ancestry via iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Marlow
An iGENEA DNA test revealed unexpected truths about my Marlow lineage. The ancestral ties to the Norse Vikings, the exploratory and adventurous lifestyle of my ancestors, and the impact of these revelations on my self-understanding are recounted in this intimate journey into my past.
My endeavor with iGENEA DNA testing started out of curiosity and ended up as an enlightening journey into my past, revealing hitherto unknown facets of my ancestry. The results have provided me profound insights into my ancestral roots, in particular my Marlow lineage. Surprisingly, my Marlow ancestors, whom I always presumed hailed from Britain, were of Viking descent. To discover my Norse Viking ancestry was intriguing, and it significantly changed my self-understanding and enriched my perception of my identity.
Importantly, iGENEA DNA testing unveiled the adventurous lifestyle of my ancestors. Vikings are known for their exploration and sea-faring prowess, it was immediately clear why my deep-set love for travel and adventure was possibly inherited. Understanding the Vikings' contribution to European medieval history and their significant impact on Britain's cultural landscape nudged me into crafting a whole new narrative around my ancestry. I take immense pride in the courage, resilience, and strong will of my ancestors. Embracing these traits, in turn, has helped me instill a strong sense of value into my present life.
Learning about my Viking heritage also led me to reconsider several aspects of my identity. I always identified as a British descendant but discovering the Norwegian link shifted my perception. Comprehending sense of self became more about acknowledging the shared past and the multiple identities that came together to weave my history. The insights make me see my family’s characteristics in an entirely new light.
Uncovering my Viking lineage also shed new light on family traditions, deciphering their strange origins. For instance, the family practice of arranging crow feathers around the house during ceremonies now appeared less random, considering the significance of the raven in Viking mythology.
iGENEA's comprehensive DNA test has proved to be a key to the past, a way of reconstructing family history with a newfound understanding of my Viking lineage. The journey not only changed my self-perception but equipped me with a deeper appreciation for my ancestry and identity. This DNA journey was indeed a transformative experience leading to a unique and enriching self-realization.
S. Marlow