Unveiling a Plausible Setting for Berk in the Real World

If How to Train Your Dragon was set in the real world, which place could it be? The fictional setting of Berk in J. Sakai’s world is characterized by its brutal winter weather, cold seas, and the unique mix of dragons and Vikings. A realistic representation of Berk would need to mirror these elements while drawing from our real-world geography. In this article, we explore the possibility of placing Berk between the Greenland Sea and Norwegian Sea, and we delve into the significance of its location.

Where It Would Take Place

The HTTYD universe demands a setting that is cold, expansive, and has a certain level of isolation. However, in reality, the only island close to where the story might be set is Jan Mayen, located in the North Atlantic Ocean between the Arctic and the Norwegian Sea. Jan Mayen is a volcanic island, with a rugged terrain and severe climate, similar to Berk’s description in the books and the TV series.

Jan Mayen is the nearest island to the fictional Berk and is owned by the Kingdom of Norway. While it may lack the extensive array of dragon nests and Viking villages as imagined in the story, the island shares a similar type of cold, rugged landscape. In this hypothetical scenario, we would need to expand the island to meet the scale and setting described in the HTTYD universe.

The Climate of Jan Mayen

Jan Mayen experiences harsh, icy winters and mild summers. Average temperatures range from around -15°C (5°F) in January to 0°C (32°F) in July. The island is covered with a thick layer of snow throughout much of the year, and its isolated location in the North Atlantic Ocean makes it a place of constant winds and strong currents.

Considering these climatic conditions, the nearest land and sea to the imaginary island of Berk would naturally match the description of a cold and isolated place, much like Jan Mayen. The cold climate would fit the HTTYD universe, and the surrounding Norwegian and Greenlandic seas would provide the maritime backdrop for a landscape akin to Berk.

Hiccup’s Perspective on Berk’s Climate

When Hiccup says, “It’s a cold place,” he might be sharing his subjective experience of Berk. From the character’s perspective, the icy and wind-swept landscape might appear inhospitable. However, for those who live there, Berk offers a unique and thrilling environment. The close proximity to the sea, with frequent whale sightings and the rich marine life, might outweigh the cold and harsh conditions.

Despite its harshness, Berk retains a captivating charm for the Vikings who live there. The unique environment fosters a community that thrives in challenging conditions. The resilience and strength of the characters in HTTYD are directly tied to the demanding life they lead.

The Significance of the Setting

The choice of Jan Mayen as the setting for the real-world Berk would have significant implications for the HTTYD storyline. The isolated location of both Jan Mayen and the conceived Berk would emphasize the community’s isolation and their dependence on the sea for resources. This setting would highlight the cultural traditions and survival methods unique to the Viking community.

Moreover, the unique and rugged landscape would provide a rich backdrop for the narrative, offering natural obstacle courses and adventure zones. The setting would align with the emotional experiences of the characters, such as the challenges of mastering dragon flying or the bond formed between Hiccup and Toothless despite the harsh conditions.

Conclusion

While the filming of How to Train Your Dragon focused on green hills and open landscapes, a realistic setting for the legendary island of Berk can be found in the icy expanse of Jan Mayen, located between the Greenland and Norwegian Seas. This location provides a fitting foundation for the HTTYD universe, blending the harsh, cold climate with rich cultural traditions. The authenticity of this setting would enhance the believable world of Berk and allow for a more immersive experience for viewers and fans of the series.