Chivalry and Brocade: A Glimpse Into The Extravagant Lifestyle of Medieval Times
Medieval times, spanning roughly from the 5th to the 15th century, was an era of chivalry, castles, and knights. While commonly associated with a lack of amenities and harsh living conditions, the Medieval times also saw the emergence of a distinct luxury culture.
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Saga of Gisli the Outlaw: Window into the Viking World
The Saga of Gisli Sursson, or Gisli the Outlaw – believed to have been written sometime in the thirteenth century – is an exceptional window into the Viking world during a period of profound and rapid change.
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A Man of Trust: 15th Century Spy Adventures of Bertrandon de La Broquière
Bertrandon de La Broquière, the 15th-century Burgundian spy, a man of certain skills, experience and great influence on the Duke’s Court, was ready for the mission of his life.
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Eric Bloodaxe (1): The Last King of Northumbria’s Ouster from Norway
Eric “Bloodaxe” Haraldsson (c. 885-954), the last king of Northumbria – a realm the Vikings usurped after the invasion and conquest of much of England by the Great Heathen Army between the years 867 and 872AD, was one of Norwegian king Harald Fairhair’s many sons sired from nine wives.
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Mythology, Mead, and Mirth: Thor’s Drinking Bout with Loki in Jötunheim
According to the Edda, Thor and his companions came upon the massive castle one day with “a great hall” and entered it. Once inside, Loki “looked slowly on them, and smiled scornfully” before telling the travelers it was “‘late to ask tidings of a long way’” but that if they could perform some skillful feats, they would be allowed to stay the night
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