In Our Time The Danelaw
Mar 28, 2019
Judith Jesch, a Viking studies expert, John Hines, an archaeological authority, and Jane Kershaw, an urban archaeology investigator, delve into the Danelaw's rich history. They discuss the Viking raids that led to the partition of England in the 880s and the unique cultural exchanges between Anglo-Saxons and Scandinavians. Key topics include the strategic advantages of Viking ships, the transformation of York, and how this period shaped language and local customs. The fascinating dynamics of Viking communities reveal insights into gender roles and integration.
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Danelaw's Origin
- The Danelaw emerged from a stalemate between Alfred of Wessex and Guthrum.
- Neither side was strong enough to win outright, leading to a negotiated partition.
Danelaw: Idea and Area
- The Danelaw was both an idea and a geographic area.
- Its definition depended on administrative and governmental perspectives, often oversimplifying complex realities.
Lindisfarne Attack
- Early Viking attacks, like on Lindisfarne, were described as apocalyptic by monastic chroniclers.
- These accounts emphasized the Vikings as heathens, possibly shaping perceptions.