Have you ever wondered about the Vikings who didn’t make the history books? While we’re familiar with legendary figures like Ragnar Lothbrok and Leif Erikson, there’s a whole host of less celebrated Vikings who played significant roles in shaping the Viking Age. These are the forgotten Vikings, the D-listers of Norse history.
Alex Harvey’s book, “Forgotten Vikings: New Approaches to the Viking Age,” sheds light on these overlooked individuals and events. By delving into lesser-known regions, characters, and cultural aspects, Harvey paints a more nuanced picture of Viking society. For instance, we learn about the Viking influence on Eastern Europe, far beyond their more famous exploits in England and France. Or consider the everyday lives of Viking women, who were not merely passive bystanders but active participants in their communities.
One of the most intriguing aspects of these forgotten Vikings is the opportunity to challenge common stereotypes. The image of Vikings as bloodthirsty raiders is undoubtedly captivating, but it’s a one-dimensional view. Harvey’s research reveals
