The Wolf Age: The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire

The Wolf Age is a novel that follows the struggle for power between the rulers of the lands surrounding the North Sea in the eleventh century. It is a thrilling journey through the bloody shared history of England and Scandinavia, and across early medieval Europe, filled with warfare, plotting, backstabbing, and bribery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Pushkin Press

In the eleventh century, the rulers of the lands surrounding the North Sea were fiercely vying for power. To acquire the necessary strength to seize control, they required an army, which in turn necessitated silver. However, the acquisition of silver was not an easy feat, as it could only be achieved through war and plunder. This vicious cycle dragged all the lands of the north into a relentless battle for supremacy and survival, ultimately leading to the shattering of kingdoms and the formation of an empire.

The Wolf Age, written by Tore Skeie, takes readers on a captivating journey through the shared history of England and Scandinavia, as well as across early medieval Europe. The book vividly portrays the world of the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons through a combination of saga and skaldic poetry, interwoven with dramatic storytelling. Warfare, intrigue, backstabbing, and bribery are prevalent throughout the narrative, as Skeie skillfully weaves these elements together to bring the world to life.

The book spans a wide range of geographical locations, from the rugged Norwegian fjords to the prosperous cities of Muslim Andalusia. Skeie's vivid descriptions and attention to detail transport readers to the heart of the Viking and Anglo-Saxon societies, allowing them to experience their customs, beliefs, and struggles firsthand.

One of the key themes of The Wolf Age is the impact of warfare on society. The book depicts the brutalities of war, including the destruction of cities, the loss of lives, and the psychological toll it takes on soldiers and civilians alike. Skeie highlights the political motivations behind wars, as well as the personal struggles and sacrifices that individuals make in the name of power.

Another notable aspect of the book is its exploration of the role of women in medieval society. Skeie presents a diverse range of female characters, from powerful queens and warriors to enslaved women and concubines. These characters showcase the complex and multifaceted nature of women's roles in the medieval world, challenging traditional gender stereotypes and highlighting the importance of female agency and resilience.

The Wolf Age also delves into the cultural and religious beliefs of the Viking and Anglo-Saxon societies. Skeie provides insights into their paganism, polytheism, and belief in the afterlife, as well as their interactions with other religious groups and cultures. The book sheds light on the complex religious and philosophical debates that characterized the medieval world, and the ways in which these beliefs shaped the actions and beliefs of the characters.

In conclusion, The Wolf Age is a captivating and informative book that offers a deep understanding of the shared history of England and Scandinavia, as well as early medieval Europe. Through its vivid storytelling, detailed descriptions, and exploration of complex themes, Skeie brings the world of the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons to life, offering readers a glimpse into a bygone era that is both fascinating and terrifying.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782278351