Swedish Vikings on Helgö and Birka - Hardcover

Wilhelm Holmqvist

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 9197038911 ISBN 13: 9789197038911

Publisher: Swedish Booksellers' Ass., 1979

Synopsis

Rear cover notes: "The Vikings were uncivilized, premature Scandinavians, looting and plundering. That is what many of us would say. The Viking spirit might have been a national characteristic. But there was a driving force behind it called commerce and politics. the Vikings had an organized society, a state in the making. It is time the Vikings were rehabilitated. Swedish Vikings on Helgö and Birka paves the way. Like a detective the author weaves argument around counter-argument. Where records fail his first-hand archeological experience makes the point. This book could convince the reader that the Vikings were a peaceful people building up their own society. Helgö, a main Viking center, was discovered in 1954. The society was industrial, its workshops for casting gold, silver, bronze and iron unique. It was a center of innovation. Perhaps the most surprising innovation was the embryo of the Swedish state. The level of civilization on Helgö was high and trade brisk at home and abroad. The trappings of that life are portrayed in a visual treat from over 1000 years ago. Fate stepped in and Birka took over from Helgö. During a period of expansion Birka became a transit point for the exotic goods of the east-west trade. Archeological finds from Birka include tools, household utensils and jewelry. All kinds of craftsmen made them. The fine illustrations and the authoritative text bring to life the strivings of a Swedish community more than 1000 years ago at the dawning of the state of Sweden."

About this title

Language Notes:

Text: English, Swedish (translation)

About this edition

• Publisher: Swedish Booksellers' Ass.
• Publication date: 1979
• ISBN 10: 9197038911
• ISBN 13: 9789197038911
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 140