The northmen of legend have landed at the Field Museum with a wealth of history and ancient treasures for you to discover! In the new Vikings exhibit, you'll explore the relics, legends and legacy of Viking civilization. Here at CPL, you can continue your journey with these epic tales:
Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom is a grim and gritty odyssey that follows young lord Uhtred of Bebbanburg as he is captured by Danes and adopted into Viking culture. A vivid story about a man divided against himself, The Last Kingdom sets the personal struggle for identity against the machinations of priests, the burden of memory and the clash of cultures. An ideal read for fans of historical fiction, The Last Kingdom is filled with twists and turns that fans of A Song of Ice and Fire and The Wheel of Time will love.
Grendel is a modern retelling of Beowulf that has grown to become as famous and widely read as the original epic. Where Beowulf focuses on the early adventures and final battle of a Viking hero, Grendel inverts the narrative by telling the monster's story. A beautifully written book that often verges on poetry, Grendel speaks to the destructive power of isolation, anger and unchecked impulse. For lighter fare, try the 2007 film adaptation of Beowulf, which blends elements of both stories in an action romp.
Know a legendary tale we missed? Share your favorites in the comments below, and help Chicago explore this amazing history!
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