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Vinland Voyages requires a basic understanding of the sources, the people and
Viking Age technology. Some key areas are covered here:
- The Icelandic Sagas
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- The single largest source of data regarding the Norse voyages
of exploration can be found in the magnificent literature know to us
as today as the Icelandic Sagas. To study the Vinland Voyages is
to study the Sagas. They form the backdrop for our
understanding of the Norse voyages.
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- Viking Age Navigation
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Most people agree the Norse / Vikings were solid sailors and
navigators. Yet they lacked most instruments. Some Viking
Age basics of navigation help make the voyages more
understandable. They also help clarify how they got here and
where "Here" was.
- Viking Ships
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- The finest navigator can do little without a ship. The
Norse created ships that were elegant works of art in their
simplicity, symmetry and functionality. Understanding their
ships and their sailing qualities is important to understanding the
Vinland Voyages.
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- Leif the Lucky
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Leif Eriksson was not the first Norseman to view North
America's shores, but he came to explore them and assess their worth
as new lands to settle. Knowing a little about him helps to
understand his achievement.
- A Runic Primer
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- Runes were the Norse characters for writing. Though to
date no Runic inscription that can irrefutably be classed as authentic
exists, that possibility remains viable, and in light of my research,
perhaps somewhat probable.
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