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The Greatest Viking
The Life of Olav Haraldsson
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Format: Hardback
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See moreThe true story of one of the most famous of all Viking warriors who remains a national hero in Norway.With reference to Norse sagas and early chronicles, veteran historian Desmond Seward has written a vivid, colourful and insightful account of a remarkable man and the times in which he lived.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
A national hero in his native land, Olav Haraldsson has as much resonance for the Norwegians as King Arthur does for the British. Unlike Arthur, however, Olav was a real historical figure: a ruthless Viking warrior who named his axe after the Norse goddess of death and took part in Svein Forkbeard's invasion of England, during which he pulled down London Bridge and sacked Canterbury (and watched its archbishop stoned to death). Later, the loot amassed from years of plunder helped him win the throne of Norway.
Yet in a personal vendetta against the old Norse gods, Olav made Norway Christian, though cutting out the tongues and gouging out the eyes of anybody who remained pagan. Canonised after his death, his tomb became a national shrine, and churches were dedicated to him throughout Scandinavia and beyond.
With reference to Norse sagas and early chronicles, veteran historian Desmond Seward has written a vivid, colourful and insightful account of a remarkable man and the times in which he lived in The Greatest Viking.
Seward's best work...a rollickingly, splendidly chronological history - Herald on The King Over the Water
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Greatest Viking by Desmond Seward is highly praised for its engaging and vivid portrayal of Viking history. Reviewers highlight that the book sets a high standard for historical writing by bringing the life and times of its subject to life with vibrant detail.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781780277950
Publisher: Birlinn General
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 03 November 2022
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Birlinn Ltd
Illustration: 12pp colour plates
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 25.0mm
Width: 156.0mm
Height: 234.0mm
Weight: 486g
Pages: 272
About the Author
Desmond Seward was educated at Ampleforth and St Catharine's College, Cambridge. Among the most highly regarded popular historians of his generation, he was the author of some thirty books, including biographies of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry V, Richard III, Marie Antoinette and Metternich. He died in 2022.
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