jjares reviewed The Vikings: Explore the Exciting History of the Viking Age and Discover Some of the Most Feared Warriors on + 3316 more book reviews
This seems to be a broad study of the Vikings, from their daily life to their famous legendary warriors. I particularly liked the explanation of the Vikings' social structure and how each group (man, woman, and child) lived. It was a surprise to hear how seriously they took law and order; even condemning those who broke laws -- to be turned out of the country or into slaves.
Knowing little about the Vikings before reading this book, I was impressed to learn that the Vikings created superior ships and that was their greatest technological contribution. Early Vikings were not intent on settlements; they sought riches, needed resources, and slaves. Monasteries were easy game because the monks and other religious did not have weapons. They were sacked repeatedly.
Probably the reason the Vikings were such irrepressible foes had much to do with their view of the hereafter. To die in battle was the best that could happen to a warrior; the more glory he died with, the higher his status.
This is a highly-readable overview of the 3 centuries of Viking exploration, raiding and leadership. I certainly enjoyed it. The only thing that could have improved this book would have been some photos/drawings of their ships and weapons, etc.
Knowing little about the Vikings before reading this book, I was impressed to learn that the Vikings created superior ships and that was their greatest technological contribution. Early Vikings were not intent on settlements; they sought riches, needed resources, and slaves. Monasteries were easy game because the monks and other religious did not have weapons. They were sacked repeatedly.
Probably the reason the Vikings were such irrepressible foes had much to do with their view of the hereafter. To die in battle was the best that could happen to a warrior; the more glory he died with, the higher his status.
This is a highly-readable overview of the 3 centuries of Viking exploration, raiding and leadership. I certainly enjoyed it. The only thing that could have improved this book would have been some photos/drawings of their ships and weapons, etc.
