Negotiating the North: Meeting-Places in the Middle Ages in the North Sea Zone

This book explores the assemblies and administrative systems of Scandinavia, Britain, and the North Atlantic islands in the 1st and 2nd millennia AD from a transnational perspective, combining historical, cartographic, archaeological, and onomastic data. It examines the emergence and development of mechanisms for consensus and the role of assemblies in consolidating elite power structures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book is a remarkable compilation of the cumulative findings of a three-year project that delved into the assemblies and administrative systems of Scandinavia, Britain, and the North Atlantic islands during the 1st and 2nd millennia AD. Within its pages, a diverse array of historical, cartographic, archaeological, field-based, and onomastic data is seamlessly integrated, offering a comprehensive perspective on early medieval and medieval administrative practices, geographies, and places of assembly in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Scotland, and eastern England. By adopting a transnational approach, this volume has unlocked a novel understanding of the evolution of power structures in early medieval northern Europe and the subsequent refinement of these systems under royal control.

The book commences with a historiographical exploration of assembly research, setting the intellectual framework for the chapters that follow. This introductory chapter provides a valuable overview of the field, highlighting the key research questions and methodologies employed. Subsequently, the book delves into the emergence and development of the "thing" in Scandinavia, its spread to the lands colonized by the Norse, and its broader implications for the consolidation and regulation of elite power structures.

The subsequent chapters explore the local and regional dimensions of assembly practices, emphasizing their significance in shaping the early medieval and medieval kingdoms of northern Europe. The authors employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon a range of scholarly disciplines, including history, archaeology, anthropology, and linguistics, to shed light on the complex tapestry of people, places, laws, and consensual structures that defined these kingdoms.

One of the key strengths of this book is its rich illustrations, which vividly depict the historical landscapes, architectural landmarks, and cultural practices of the regions under study. These visual representations enhance the reader's understanding of the historical context and provide a tangible connection to the past.

Furthermore, the authors offer insightful analyses and interpretations of the data presented, drawing upon a wealth of scholarly literature and employing a critical and interdisciplinary approach. This approach ensures that the book remains grounded in rigorous scholarship while also engaging with a broader audience.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for scholars and enthusiasts interested in the history, culture, and governance of early medieval northern Europe. Its comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach provides a fresh perspective on the development of power structures and the maturation of administrative systems in this region. The rich illustrations and insightful analyses make it accessible to a wide range of readers, and its contributions to our understanding of the early medieval world are invaluable.

Weight: 986g
Dimension: 181 x 252 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367493110