The Vikings is a richly illustrated introduction to this extraordinary culture, presenting an art of immense sophistication, with artifacts ranging from exquisite gold jewelry to superbly decorated weapons, and vividly incised and painted runestones. This book covers themes that have long preoccupied the popular imagination, including: the restless spirit of the Norsemen and their extraordinary voyages in quest of adventure, booty, conquest, glory--and simply trade; the mighty gods and goddesses such as Odin, Freyja, Thor, and the mischief maker Loki; the mysteries of the afterlife; and the ceremonies and sacrifices that accompanied the burials of the Viking rulers and aristocracy in their magnificent longships.