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Vikings Books
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Paul B. (Paul Belloni) Du Chaillu
The Viking Age. Volume 1 (of 2) The early history, manners, and customs of the ancestors of the English-speaking nations
"The Viking Age. Volume 1" by Paul B. Du Chaillu is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the early history, manners, and customs of the ancestors of the English-speaking nations, drawing from antiquities uncovered in various burial sites, as well as from ancient sagas and Eddas. It primarily focuses on the Viking civilization and its influence on the lands they settled, particularly in Britain. The opening of the volume sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Norse civilization, emphasizing the wealth of archaeological evidence that paints a vivid picture of their social, political, and religious life. Du Chaillu discusses the motivations and characteristics of the Norse people, whom he describes as warlike, adventurous, and energetic, attributing their maritime prowess to their ancestry. He hints at the transformation of Britain through Viking influence, foreshadowing an extensive examination of their customs, literature, and mythology, which will be traced throughout the chapters.
Paul B. (Paul Belloni) Du Chaillu
The Viking Age. Volume 2 (of 2) The early history, manners, and customs of the ancestors of the English-speaking nations
"The Viking Age. Volume 2 (of 2)" by Paul B. Du Chaillu is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This expansive work delves into various aspects of Viking society, culture, and customs, illuminated by archaeological findings and ancient literary sources such as sagas and Eddas. The book provides insights into the lives of the ancestors of English-speaking nations and examines their practices, including marriage, child-rearing, and warfare. At the start of this volume, the opening chapter focuses on marriage among the Norse people, detailing the high status of women, the civil nature of marriage, and the various customs surrounding it. It highlights the importance of agreements known as "mund" that formalized marriages, the roles of suitors, and the expectations placed upon both men and women in selecting marriage partners. The chapter provides numerous examples from the Sagas to illustrate these practices, shedding light on the intricacies of relationships within Viking society, where marriage and familial bonds were often intertwined with matters of property and social standing.
A. (Allen) Mawer
The Vikings
"The Vikings" by A. Mawer is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the Viking movement, focusing on the raids and settlements conducted by Scandinavian peoples during the 9th and 10th centuries. It provides a comprehensive look into the causes and implications of Viking activities in various regions, particularly in England, Ireland, and the Frankish Empire. The opening of the book sets the stage by defining the term 'Viking,' explaining its etymology and narrowing its historical context. Mawer notes the Viking raids began in the late 8th century and discusses the various factors that contributed to these movements, including population pressures and shifting political landscapes in Scandinavia. He outlines the complex interactions between the Vikings and the cultures they encountered, establishing a nuanced understanding that goes beyond the simplistic view of them as mere raiders and emphasizes their significant influence on European history and society.
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