Definitively tracing the Story of the Vikings from the early Nordic Stone Age civilizations to the Age of Viking Expansion by the Norsemen. A span of some thousands of years are concisely covered in one volume in a thorough study in the evolution the Norse people. A whole new world of understanding about the ancient Vikings has been opened up by new archaeological discoveries and studies.
The story of Ragnar Lothbrok is told along with many other famous Vikings such as Rollo and Erik the Red. A ride to the very Halls of Valhalla as seen from an anthropological perspective. Technologies specific to the Norse are looked at and explained.
Easy to read and very interesting. Providing first a quick overview then a chapter by chapter journey through major events in Norse history then concluding with a separated portion that highlights major aspects in Norse knowledge and technology. Discussed are possible theories about some aspects in Norse religion that may have some truth behind the Myths, in addition to people that the Vikings had made contact with – lost in time.
Easy to read and very interesting. Providing first a quick overview then a chapter by chapter journey through major events in Norse history then concluding with a separated portion that highlights major aspects in Norse knowledge and technology. Discussed are possible theories about some aspects in Norse religion that may have some truth behind the Myths, in addition to people that the Vikings had made contact with – lost in time.
While the subject is interesting, and the author appears well versed in the history of the people we commonly refer to as Vikings, the text is filled with numerous typographical and grammatical errors, which detratcted from my reading pleasure. On one page alone I came across the use of "seen" instead of "saw", "then" instead of "than", and repeated misuse of "whom" instead of "who". I would have given the book four stars were it not for this. There may be some who would consider me to be some kind of grammar nazi, but if I'm paying for a book, I expect decent editing.
Fascinating, fun, and educational analysis of the group known as The Vikings, from their pre-historic roots, to common myths, weapons, warfare, and religion. Annotated archeological and anthropological data made accessible with imagination, care, and neat storytelling.