From Goths To Varangians

Beskrivelse

Explore the dynamic cultural exchanges from late Antiquity through the High Middle Ages, tracing connections from the Goths to the Varangians across Eastern Europe. This book sheds light on a fascinating era of transformation along the Dniester River and beyond.

A comprehensive look at the shifting interactions and historical developments between the Baltic and the Black Sea regions from late Antiquity to the medieval period.

During late Antiquity, archaeological evidence reveals vibrant and widespread trade and cultural exchange along the Dniester River, extending through present-day Poland to the Baltic Sea. By the 11th century, the area once known as Barbaricum had evolved into a series of Christian kingdoms and principalities, each with distinct yet interconnected histories.

This volume covers the period from the legendary migrations of the Goths in Antiquity to the presence of the Varangian Guard at the Byzantine imperial court during the late Viking Age. Throughout these centuries, cross-cultural interactions played a key role alongside significant historical developments.

The book focuses on the evolving relationships from late Antiquity to the High Middle Ages, spanning from the Goths to the Varangians and stretching geographically from the Baltic to the Black Sea. Despite their importance, the history and archaeology of these connections have been largely overlooked in recent scholarship.

The essays included here are selected from presentations given at a series of four meetings held between 2007 and 2009, organized by the 'Varangian Network.' This interdisciplinary group is dedicated to archaeological and historical research on the ties between the Baltic and Black Sea regions from late Antiquity through the medieval era.

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