The Children of Ash and Elm: A History of the Vikings

The Viking Age is traditionally held to begin in June 793 when Scandinavian raiders attacked the monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria, and to end in September 1066, when King Harald Hardrada of Norway died leading the charge against the English line at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. This book, the most wide-ranging and comprehensive assessment of the current state of our knowledge, takes a refreshingly different view. It shows that the Viking expansion began generations before the Lindisfarne raid and traces Scandinavian history back centuries further to see how these people came to be who they were. The narrative ranges across the whole of the Viking diaspora, from Vinland on the eastern American seaboard to Constantinople and Uzbekistan, with contacts as far away as China. Based on the latest archaeology, it explores the complex origins of the Viking phenomenon and traces the seismic shifts in Scandinavian society that resulted from an economy geared to maritime war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 624 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Viking Age, a captivating period of history, is traditionally believed to have commenced in June 793 when Scandinavian raiders launched a devastating attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne in Northumbria. This historical era is widely acknowledged to have concluded in September 1066, with the demise of King Harald Hardrada of Norway during the Battle of Stamford Bridge, where he led the Norwegian forces against the English army. However, this book, hailed as the most comprehensive and insightful examination of our current knowledge in this field, presents a refreshing perspective. It reveals that the Viking expansion had its roots in generations preceding the Lindisfarne raid, delving into the rich history of Scandinavia to understand the origins of these remarkable people.

The narrative spans across the vast expanse of the Viking diaspora, encompassing regions such as Vinland on the eastern American seaboard, Constantinople, and Uzbekistan, with connections reaching as far as China. Drawing upon the latest archaeological discoveries, this book explores the intricate origins of the Viking phenomenon and uncovers the profound societal transformations that emerged from an economy centered around maritime warfare. Among its most remarkable findings are the central role of slavery and trade in Viking society, as well as the previously undiscovered pirate communities and family migrations that played a significant part in the Viking armies, particularly in England.

In his captivating exploration, Neil Price takes us deep into the Norse mind and spirit world, illuminating the boundaries of identity and gender that defined their society. He challenges centuries of prevailing wisdom by seeking to understand the Vikings as they saw themselves—descendants of the first human couple, the Children of Ash and Elm. Price also reminds us of the interconnectedness and paradoxical nature of the past, emphasizing how much we can learn from our ancestors while simultaneously recognizing the profound differences between our modern world and their ancient civilization.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the Vikings, history, or the complexities of human civilization. It offers a profound and nuanced perspective on a fascinating period of history, shedding light on the origins, achievements, and enduring legacy of the Vikings. Through its comprehensive analysis and engaging storytelling, The Viking Age emerges as a landmark work that will captivate readers for years to come.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 134 x 197 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141984445