History: Intermediate- The Viking Age

This Intermediate online course will take a detailed look at the life and times of Anglo-Saxon England and other realms of the British Isles under the threat and onslaught of the Vikings in the 9th Century. We will explore reasons for the decline of Mercia before going on to look at key features of the Viking raids and be able to summarise the impact of them on Pictland, Ireland and England. We will go on to consider what motives the Norsemen may have had in the period, consider the evidence we have for the essential features of their society, and how they achieved their successes. There will also be detailed analysis regarding the success of Wessex after 825AD and an evaluation of the reasons for this success. The course will be delivered by an experienced and friendly tutor who will build your knowledge and understanding around one of the most fascinating subjects in History whilst facilitating your own critical thinking and evaluation skills. For optional pre-course preparation you could take a look at 'The Anglo Saxons; A History of the Beginnings of England' by Marc Morris. This reading is not at all mandatory but may whet your appetite for more!!