Vikings: A Concise History of the Vikings

by Stephan Weaver

From the invasion of Britain to the siege of Paris, the Viking age is indeed one of the most tumultuous and formative periods of European history. But what of the forces behind the seismic raids and explorations? What of the ingenious craftsmanship behind the longboats that were beyond their time? Often, a farrago of myths and facts continues to portray a rather foggy image of the Vikings; but could the Vikings truly be the savage seafarers that history condemns them to be? Inside you will learn about… The HistoryThe Raids and Settlements of the VikingsSiege of ParisThe Viking Dress CodeViking HomesThe Viking Age and MusicThe Viking LongshipThe Social Landscape of the Vikings The LegendsRagnar LodbrokErik ThorvaldssonBjorn IronsideHarald Hardrada The GodsOdinThorLokiFrey (Freyr)Freyja (Freya) And much more! This book provides a balanced and riveting account of the Viking age—from its dawn to dusk. Without white washing the savagery of the Vikings, it chronicles the many raids that were undertaken. It also presents another view point of these fascinating people. Employing the latest archeological finds and various sources, it paints a different yet factual picture of the Vikings. The book delves into the many cultural aspects of the religion—the Nordic gods—social structure, cloth, house and much besides. Their celebrated ship architecture is discussed at length, myths are debunked, legends are deliberated—many facets of this epoch are dilated in detail.

Genres: History

60 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 17, 2015

Reviews

[Stephanie (Bookfever) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit that before this book I didn't know a lot about the Viking age but these last few years I've become more interested in it. I do know more about Norse mythology but it was nice to learn more about the invasions and the life of the vikings in general.

As the previous books I've read by Stephan Weaver, this one also has a lot of striking detail and compelling information. The writing as always is also excellent. There were so many interesting things about the Viking age that I hadn't known before so I loved that.

I also always enjoy the photographs in these books. So they give that little extra to the book. Another favorite aspect of mine was learning what the Vikings (both men, women and children) used to wear. There was also a list of male and female Viking names and some myths that were debunked. I especially loved those.

So if you want to learn more about this topic, Vikings: The Viking Age From Beginning To End by Stephan Weaver is the book you'll want to read for sure!

[Eugene Kernes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short book that covers Viking history from late 8th century to mid-11th century. Their invasions, social circumstances, and mythology are included while also correcting some misperceptions. Vikings made their presence felt in England, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, Vinland, and France. The era of Viking invasions has three potential catalysts. 1) The invasions were retaliation for coercion and terror in trying to turn them into Christians. 2) Need for resources led them to trade and obtain trading partners in new territories. 3) Growing population with a lack of fertile farmland caused them to seek it elsewhere. In many instances emulated the people under their reign.

The raids were typically small but appear to have been part of grand strategy. Usually raiding in the winter as the regions under attack would lack support. What gave the Vikings superiority was the Viking longships which were fast and could travel shallow waters. Some Vikings left regions because they were paid to leave. Other Vikings settled in regions where armies could not remove them. While other Vikings lost battles and retreated.

Social culture was typically hospitable and welcoming of strangers. Although the Viking was not larger-than-life-size, because of their harsh environment, physical chores, and battles, they were physically stronger than average man. Women were independent and had certain rights which permitted them to enjoyed relatively more liberty than other regions during the time period. Large slave population for daily and physical chores. The kings title was fought for rather than inherited.

A quick read. As this is a short book, it discusses the Vikings in broad descriptions and does not contain many details per event. A very good overview of the Vikings which allows the reader to consider looking for more. Provides history from different perspectives rather than glorifying or demonizing the Vikings.

[Bruce · Rating 3 out of 5]

Smooth writer.

[Johan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

[Scott Kennedy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really interesting information about the Vikings. At times I was confused by sentence construction and what seemed to be incorrect use of words.

[Karen Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bit short but lots of information......I will be reading more on this subject!!