This class examines a range of source texts that document the dynamic, expanding and evolving societies of medieval Scandinavia. From the eighth century onwards, Norse groups, popularly known as the Vikings, sailed out from Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, traveling in every direction. This course analyzes prominent historical “Viking” activities – from raiding and mercenary work to exploration and trade, from conquest and settlement to lawmaking and dispute resolution. Centered on the medieval Nordic cultures, lectures consider such activities in their full geographic context. Norse expansion touched Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the Baltic, and the North Atlantic including Canada. Students in this course will explore a select survey of sources from the Norse and from the various other cultures they encountered. The goal is to develop a thorough comprehension of major aspects of this important, indeed definitive, era of Scandinavian history and culture. All works will be in English or English translation [3 credits]
This class examines a range of source texts that document the dynamic, expanding and evolving societies of medieval Scandinavia. From the eighth century onwards, Norse groups, popularly known as the Vikings, sailed out from Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, traveling in every direction. This course analyzes prominent historical “Viking” activities – from raiding and mercenary work to exploration and trade, from conquest and settlement to lawmaking and dispute resolution. Centered on the medieval Nordic cultures, lectures consider such activities in their full geographic context. Norse expansion touched Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the Baltic, and the North Atlantic including Canada. Students in this course will explore a select survey of sources from the Norse and from the various other cultures they encountered. The goal is to develop a thorough comprehension of major aspects of this important, indeed definitive, era of Scandinavian history and culture. All works will be in English or English translation [3 credits]
