Vinland

by George Mackay Brown (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1995

  $5.14

  A saga of the Viking Ranald Sigmundson, his life on Orkney and his voyage to Vinland, the settlement in North America. He visits America as a young man with Leif Erikson, and the experience informs the rest of his life, spanning years of war and peace, Christianity and the darker ancient rites.

• Used

  Paperback
  2011

  $4.13

  This book takes the reader on a journey from Orkney, over to Norway, into Iceland and Ireland, recreating with historical accuracy the customs and landscapes of the time while bringing the age to life through a large cast of engaging characters. Through the telling of Ranald's story, Mackay Brown displays abundant knowledge about many facets of early Orkney life, of seamanship, marriage customs, beliefs and traditions and his portrayal of this age extends to the routine of the Norwegian Royal court. Traditional poetry is scattered throughout Mackay Brown's prose adding a richness and depth to the tale he tells. Lore and legend, the elemental pull of the sea and the land, the sweetness of the early religion and the darker, more ancient rites, weave through this exquisite celebration of Orcadian history and the inexorable seasons of life.