The Vikings: Voyagers of Discovery and Plunder

"Vikings:Voyagers of Discovery and Plunder" originated as three separate volumes published by Osprey, the well-known source of highly-ilustrated military works, and this origin is evident in the triple focus of the present book. The first section provides a general history of the Vikings (who operated principally during the 9th, 10th, and 11th centuries), the second section examines the Viking "hersir" (the middle rank of Viking warriors), and the last gives a detailed look at Viking longshipss (and associated vessels). The volume is extremely well illustrated throughout, including contemporary works of art, modern drawings, and photographs of modern recreations (and in this regard, I cannot think of any human artifact that can surpass the Viking longships for their combination of utility with beauty). Even readers with numrous books about Vikings on their shelves will profit from adding this new volume to their collections.

For the last couple years Osprey books have garnered my attention causing me to add many titles to the history items on my book shelves. As with the recently released The Normans by Osprey Publishing, this volume on the Vikings is also a true bell ringer. Though the book contains new and added material, it represents a reprint in hardcover of the Osprey softcover books: Elite #3 The Vikings, Warrior #3 Viking Honor 793-1066, and New Vanguard #47 Viking Longship. As with The Normans, a chronology appears listing historical events from 350 BC through AD 1085. The book contains many pictures and illustrations which for the most part are all in color. I don't know whose bright idea this was at Osprey, but they have hit upon a very good idea. Taking a series of previously published trade paperbacks and reissuing them as a new hardcover should find many history buffs willing and able to purchase them. Good thinking Osprey. This volume will be a good one to introduce or reintroduce you to the good, solid history from these wonderful people at Osprey books. Cannot think of a better book to buy, unless it would be another newly published volume from Osprey: Soldiers of the Dragon, Chinese Armies 1500 BC-1840 AD. But whether you choose The Normans, The Vikings, or Soldiers of the Dragon you as a reader cannot possibly go wrong. Best in reading. Semper Fi.

The Vikings have long been portrayed as ruthless barbarians who pillaged and sacked - and little more about them is usually revealed. To gain this depth, consult The Vikings: Voyagers Of Discovery And Plunder. Here are detailed surveys of their seafaring exploits, their history, and all that's known about major figures in Viking lore. From Viking ships to how they raided around the world and established world empires, The Vikings: Voyagers Of Discovery And Plunder is a college-level recommendation not to be missed by any studying the topic.