The Viking Great Army that landed in East Anglia in late 865 had a lasting impact on English society, culture, politics, and economy. This book uses new archaeological evidence to explore how the people in this army lived during its 15 year long occupation of England.
A very enjoyable read, suitable for anyone interested in the Viking Age, Life in the Viking Great Army is particularly valuable as it offers both a clear chronology of the movements of the Great Army across England and a detailed examination of the archaeological evidence. By bringing data together from a wide range of sources, the authors have, for the first time, identified an 'archaeological signature' of the Great Army, which allows them to investigate life in the Army camps. They have also succeeded in tracing the influence and reach of the Great Army beyond the camps as well as its long-term legacy, all in conjunction with contemporary written sources. Highly recommended.