The Vikings and Their Age (Companions to Medieval Studies)

This book, the first in our Companions to Medieval Studies series, is a brief introduction to the history, culture, and religion of the Viking Age and provides an essential foundation for study of the period. The companion begins by defining the Viking Age and explores topics such as Viking society and religion. Viking biographies provide students with information on important figures in Viking lore such as Harald Bluetooth, Eirik the Red, Leif Eiriksson, and Gudrid Thorbjarnardaughter, a female Viking traveler. A compelling chapter entitled "How Do We Know About the Vikings?" and a case study on the wandering monks of St. Philibert introduce students to the process of historical inquiry. The book concludes with a discussion of the impact of the Vikings and their legacy. Pedagogical resources include a detailed chronology, study questions, a glossary, 4 maps, and 14 images. Text boxes provide information on outsider perceptions of the Vikings, a detailed account of a Viking raid, and a description of a chieftain's dwelling in Arctic Norway. This study also benefits from a multi-disciplinary approach including insights and evidence from such diverse disciplines as archaeology, philology, religion, linguistics, and genetics. The Vikings And Their Age Offers A Quick Overview Of The Chronology And Major Themes Of The Viking Period. Written In An Accessible Manner, It Also Provides A Great Introduction To Some Of The Most Interesting And Significant Figures In Viking Lore, Such As Harald Bluetooth, Eirik The Red, Leif Eiriksson, And Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir, A Female Viking Traveller. Insights And Evidence From Such Diverse Disciplines As Archaeology, Philology, Linguistics, And Genetics Are Provided. The Companion Includes A Case Study In Reading And Interpreting Viking History, A Timeline, Maps, Images, And Text Boxes That Highlight Additional, Interesting Information Throughout (e.g. Explanations Of Viking Names, The Description Of A Chieftain's Dwelling In Arctic Norway, And Archaeological Evidence Of Viking Raids).--pub. Desc. 1. Introduction -- 2. The Viking Age: An Overview -- 3. Viking Society And Religion: An Overview -- 4. Viking Biographies -- 5. How Do We Know? Sources For The Vikings And Their Age, And How To Use Them -- 6. Case Study: The Vita Findani As A Window Into The Viking Age -- 7. Timeline -- 8. Research Tools. By Angus A. Somerville And R. Andrew Mcdonald. Includes Bibliographical References And Index. Also Issued In Electronic Format.