How to be a Viking: The Norse warrior’s unofficial manual
John Haywood
Thames & Hudson, £12.95
ISBN 978-0500251942
If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right sword, or how best to organise your army into an effective swine-wedge (who hasn’t?), this book is the one for you. From what to expect on sea voyages and how to plan a successful raid, to composing heroic poetry and holding your own during an insult competition, Haywood’s handy guide tells you all you need to know to win wealth and fame as a Viking warrior. Well illustrated, boisterously light-hearted, and crammed with solid historical and archaeological information, this is a vivid window into the Viking Age.
This article is an extract from the full article published in World Archaeology Issue 58. Click here to subscribe