About AD 800, mysterious long-ships made their first appearance along the North Sea coast of Britain. From Shetland to the Thames, these raiding ships appeared out of the sea mists, carrying warriors so fierce that no one could stand against them. By the middle of the 9th century, these raiders began to establish settlements, and the raids continued, from Norse bases in Orkney, Ireland, and the Isle of Man. The raiders eventually became rulers, creating Scandinavian colonies in Normandy, England, and Ireland. Around the same time, a few Viking explorers ventured across the Atlantic to America, while others sailed south to Africa, into the Mediterranean, and through the European river systems deep into Russia. This book chronicles their achievements, drawing on archaeological evidence as well as the rich source of Norse Sagas and mythology.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
ANGUS KONSTAM has written over a dozen books on piracy, shipwrecks, and exploration for the Atlas series. He has made a lifelong study of maritime history and archaeology, and the history of early European development. He is a museum professional with experience in both Britain and the United States, and holds degrees in history and archaeology.
Grade 7 Up-In spite of the title, maps are not the most useful or impressive feature of this book. In fact, many of the chapters covering such areas as religion and mythology, ships, or warfare contain no maps at all. However, what readers will find in abundance are color photographs, illustrations, and a fair amount of text on these and other topics. The organization is thematic rather than chronological, making it most useful for students who already have some grounding in the history of the early Middle Ages and the Vikings in particular. The photographs of ship, architecture, and weapon reconstructions are complemented by full- and half-page drawings depicting aspects of Viking life and culture. However, as an atlas, this volume is not a success. The maps are colorful and uncluttered, but many places referred to in the text are not shown. For example, a short chapter on the settlement of the Isle of Man does not include a map showing its location. There is no bibliography. Purchase where additional illustrative material or Viking history is needed.
David Pauli, Hillsboro Public Library, OR
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
(No Available Copies)
Search Books: Create a WantIf you know the book but cannot find it on AbeBooks, we can automatically search for it on your behalf as new inventory is added. If it is added to AbeBooks by one of our member booksellers, we will notify you!
Create a Want