Viking Law and Order: Places and Rituals of Assembly in the Medieval North

Using archaeological evidence, written sources and place-names, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Viking legal system and assembly sites, showing that this formed an integral part of Norse culture and identity, to the extent that the assembly institution was brought to all Norse settlements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2019
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book, through a comprehensive analysis of archaeological evidence, written sources, and place-names, presents a thorough examination of the Viking legal system and assembly sites. It demonstrates that these institutions played a vital role in shaping Norse culture and identity, as the assembly institution was established in all Norse settlements.

Archaeological evidence reveals that the Vikings had a well-developed legal system that governed their society. This system included laws governing marriage, property, inheritance, and criminal offenses. Written sources, such as the Icelandic Sagas and the Norwegian King's Sagas, provide valuable insights into Viking legal practices and customs. Place-names, such as the Viking settlements in Greenland and Newfoundland, also shed light on the extent of Viking influence and settlement.

The Viking legal system was based on a combination of custom and written law. Customary law was passed down through generations and was based on traditional practices and beliefs. Written law, on the other hand, was introduced by the Vikings during their conquests and was based on legal systems from other cultures they encountered.

One of the key features of the Viking legal system was the importance of the assembly. The assembly was a gathering of the community where laws were debated, passed, and enforced. It was a powerful institution that played a significant role in shaping Viking society.

The assembly institution was not limited to the Vikings but was also adopted by other Norse communities, such as the Swedes and the Danes. This shows that the Viking legal system had a significant impact on the development of Nordic law and culture.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the Viking legal system and assembly sites. It demonstrates that these institutions played a crucial role in shaping Norse culture and identity, and their influence can be seen in the legal systems of other Nordic communities. The study of Viking law and society offers a rich and fascinating perspective on the history and culture of the Nordic region.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474445757