Description
Book SynopsisOverturning the received narrative of Europe's military and religious conquest and colonization of the region, the author contends that rather than acting as passive recipients, Scandinavians converted to Christianity because it was in individual chieftains' political, economic and cultural interests to do so.
Trade Review"'Challenging the stereotypical master narrative of zealous evangelicals and active missionaries converting an at best passive, at worst resistant, native heathen population, Winroth is able to substitute a fascinating description of the distinctive political dynamics that characterised all of Western Europe after the barbarian invasions' (Patrick Madigan, Heythrop Journal) 'He is well acquainted with the comprehensive and varied research and guides the reader to synthesizing conclusions and wider perspectives... Winroth has made a fine and stimulating synthesis of Viking Age Scandinavia and its place within European history.' (Thomas Lindkvist, University of Gothenburg, The Journal of English and German Philology) 'Anders Winroth's The Conversion of Scandinavia provides much material to ponder as well as a great deal of information. His meticulous gathering of materials opens new avenues for consideration, while his thoughtful survey of the material will provide guidance for anyone interested in the topic and period.' (Benjamin Hudson, The Journal of Medieval Religious Cultures)"
