Book review: The Vikings

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17 April 2019
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Now in its 7th Folio Society edition, this is another of those sumptuously produced books that the Folio Society specialises in.

Author: Gwyn Jones

Reviewed by: Duncan Evans

 

Buy your copy here.
 

Now in its 7th Folio Society edition, this is another of those sumptuously produced books that the Folio Society specialises in. It has a new introduction from Magnus Magnusson and comes in a blocked slipcase, is printed on cream-coloured, high quality paper and has 16 pages of colour plates to illustrate the subject. Of course, the common impression of Vikings is bloodthirsty barbarians, but they were no better or worse than anyone else. This volume aims to depict the true face of Viking achievements, with the discovery of Greenland, the Faroes and America; the conquest of England; the trade in silks, weapons and slaves, throughout Europe, and the enduring impact of Norse culture with its myths, gods and legends.

 

As well as the text looking and reading well, there are 26 full colour plates, showcasing Viking treasures and sites plus 12 maps and plans, including a final one that charts Viking settlements, provinces and conflicts. With an entertaining introduction as well, this is a fantastic, high quality production that anyone interested in all things Nordic should invest in.

 

The Folio Society edition of The Vikings by Gwyn Jones, introduced by Magnus Magnusson, is available exclusively from www.foliosociety.com.

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Buy your copy here.

• The Folio Society
• www.foliosociety.com
• 490 pages • Hardback • £39.95

 

As reviewed in The Armourer June 2019

 

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