How did Christianity change writing in Scandinavia?

The arrival of Christianity in Scandinavia during the 10th and 11th centuries fundamentally transformed writing by introducing the Latin alphabet and the use of parchment.1

Prior to this shift, runic writing was the primary system used by Germanic peoples. While the church introduced Latin letters, runic writing did not disappear immediately; it continued to be used for epigraphic purposes and general information for some time.12

The adoption of the Latin alphabet facilitated more sustained literary efforts. Initially used only for Latin texts, it was soon adapted for native Scandinavian languages. This transition allowed for the recording of oral laws, followed by translations of religious and secular works such as saints’ legends, sermons, epics, and romances. These developments helped integrate the North into the broader sphere of medieval European culture and stimulated a significant flowering of native literature, particularly in Iceland.1