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Product Description
From Library Journal
A survey of Viking civilization, originally published in Denmark (1987), concentrating on the period c.750-c.1050. One chapter covers sources, and about one-third of the book deals with Viking expansion into Russia, Normandy, the British Isles, Iceland, Greenland, etc. (Only a few pages touch upon activities in North America.) Most of the book surveys the geography, people, society, religion, art, etc., of the Vikings' Scandinavian homelands, stressing the complexity of their civilization. The Vikings is a sober, factual, accurate, though somewhat pedestrian account accessible to laypersons and reflecting recent scholarship. Public or academic libraries needing an up-to-date (post-1980) survey should acquire it. Roesdahl is the author of Viking Age Denmark (State Mutual Bk., 1982)-- J.F. Husband, Framingham State Coll., Mass.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Book Description
Far from being just 'wild, barbaric, axe-wielding pirates', the Vikings created complex social institutions, oversaw the coming of Christianity to Scandinavia and made a major impact on European history through trade, travel and far-flung consolidation. This encyclopedic study brings together the latest research on Viking art, burial customs, class divisions, jewellery, kingship, poetry and family life. The result is a rich and compelling picture of an extraordinary civilisation.
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Most helpful customer reviews
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Readable yet scholarly; great as reference or leisurely read,
This review is from: Vikings Revised Edition (Paperback)
I loved the first edition of this book, and this revised edition is even better, incorporating much new archaeological evidence. As a historical fiction writer, currectly writing a novel about the Vikings, books like this are invaluable to me. This is my #1 reference book. Not only does it contain a tremendous amount of information, Roesdahl has organized it exceptionally well, such that it is always easy to find exactly what I'm looking for. As a read-through book, I also found it captivating and not in the least bit dry. Replete with maps, diagrams and photos, it is an invaluable learning tool for anyone interested in this time in history. One of the aspects I particularly appreciate is that Roesdahl has a Scandinavian perspective, viewing the Vikings as a legitimate Norse civilization, with a vibrant, artistic, agricultural and exploratory culture, more than as pagan invaders of the rest of civilized Europe. Yes, there were some ruthless invaders amongst them, but many writers are too focused on that aspect. The book starts with a look at the sources of information we have about the Vikings, the written sources, place names and archaeological evidence. Knowing the sources on which our knowledge is based is extremely important, so we won't be so readily hoodwinked into believing faulty interpretations. Roesdahl then looks in excellent detail at Scandinavian geography, people, language, history, religion, art, etc. A wonderful feel for the times and culture is gained. The next focus is Norse expansion, their conquests and settlements in Britain, Russia and the Baltics, and west to Iceland, Greenland and North America. Finally, she concludes with the lasting significance of these Norse peoples and the so-called Viking Age. I would highly recommend this book to anyone seriously interested in Viking history.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Almost Perfect,
By
This review is from: Vikings Revised Edition (Paperback)
This was the firs book I have read on the subject and even though I was already familiar with some aspects of the Viking life it was very interesting and informative. The book deals with every thing in great detail, from the houses in which the Vikings lived in to the shoes the wore. Unfortunately the chapter about warfare was a little short and, in my opinion lacked many details and wasn't as comprehensive as I hoped it would be. Also, I think a few battle descriptions would have been nice.Overall, a great book and a wonderful introduction to a fascinating culture ! 4 out of 5
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Good Resource,
By
This review is from: Vikings Revised Edition (Paperback)
A very informative book, it covers nearly all aspects of Viking life, from government, literature, and warfare, through sculpture, gender roles, and burial practices. The book seems written for people who already have a working understanding of Viking life, as it makes a few assumptions about the knowledge you already have, but even if this is your first introduction to the Vikings you should be able to follow along with few problems.
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