The Blood Eagle is one of the most graphic, cruel, and lengthy torture methods ever described. According to 12th and 13th century authors, the Blood Eagle had a long tradition in Scandinavia, often being associated with Vikings, and was used against the most heinous enemies. The conventional interpretation of the Blood Eagle stipulates that the shape of an eagle was carved onto the victim's back, after which the skin was pulled back and the ribs were detached from the spine. The lungs were then pulled out and over the ribs, mimicking the image of the wings of a spread eagle.