Read Meh
Length 324
Quick Review This is a comprehensive look into the geography, culture, trade, and all things Viking. It’s a great peek into what I think is an often overlooked region of European history.
Roesdahl writes a very detailed look into Scandinavian heritage by documenting all things so far discovered about the Vikings and the era in which they lived. Though, she admits, there are still many unknowns, Roesdahl covered a great many topics.
Roesdahl’s prose is quite dry; mostly conveying facts to the reader in the most direct way possible. Although, it’s hard to tell what her prose is like because this is a translation from her original. She gives as much information as possible, while admitting there is still much to learn.
Through archaeology, research, translation, and other ways there have been many advances in our knowledge about the Vikings in comparison to what was known just a few decades ago. It was believed the Vikings had been a primitive culture many equated as barbaric. However, it is now known they were a complex people, who achieved great accomplishments in trade, exploration, religion, traditions, language, etc. I learned quite a bit. I suggest it to anyone who has an interest in the Vikings.
Title: The Vikings; Revised Edition
Author: Else Roesdahl
Translators: Susan M. Margeson and Kirsten Williams
Publisher: Penguin Books
Copyright: 1987, 1998
ISBN: 9780140252828
