Friendly Traders, Raiders or Settlers? New Research on the Vikings in the West Country

Written sources originating in the European kingdoms between AD 800 and 1100 seem, on first reading, to describe a period of almost continuous raiding by war-bands from Scandinavia. But archaeologist Derek Gore argues that a careful analysis of the written record reveals not only the political aspirations of Viking leaders but also the desire of some warriors to settle and integrate into the population in the kingdoms while archaeological evidence suggests primarily commercial contacts between Scandinavia and Europe before this Viking Age. A study of other material such as stone sculptures, place names, personal names, hoards and single finds of metalwork from the West Country allows a more complicated picture to emerge from this difficult period. Tickets are available from 14 April online or from the Royal Albert Memorial Museum reception in person or by phone using a credit or debit card on 01392 265858 during opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Organised by Friends of Exeter Museums & Art Gallery, registered charity no. 306649. The Friends support the museum with financial help towards acquisitions and conservation. W www.exeter.gov.uk/friends, E friends@exeter.gov.uk.

Suitable for
Any age

Admission
£7.50

Website
http://www.rammuseum.org.uk/whats-on/friendly-traders-raiders-or-settlers-new-research-on-the-vikings-in-the-west-country

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/sw000088?id=EVENT525594