Mark Harrison (1) (1954–)

"Anglo-Saxon Thegn AD 449–1066" offers a brief but informative overview of the period. It's not strictly about the life of thegns, though, as it covers various aspects of Anglo-Saxon life, which makes for better reading.

A short (64 pages) introduction to Viking history. I learned that a “hersir” was originally an independent warband leader, eventually morphing into a regional servant of the king. Lots of illustrations, as usual for Osprey publications; most are weaponry and armor. Full color plates of Viking warriors of the era; like many Osprey publications, useful if you want to paint miniatures. There are many more scholarly books about the Viking era (and, of course, the sagas), but this one isn’t show more bad for an easy to read introduction. Bibliography and a good index, plus a list of museums with Viking era exhibits. show less

Being one of the Warrior series, this is a 64 page, twelve colour plate Osprey publications. Mark Harrison's text is clear, and there are illustrations of two battles, Hafrsfjord, and Brunanburh. And, of course, a bird's eye view of the fortress of Trelleborg. The usual plates for equipment, dealing with Spear points, Axes, Helmets, and swords. if you do not have another Osprey on this topic it is a good book.

the Warrior series is usually pretty detailed.This format has twelve coloured plates. There a good birdseye of a burrh. the coloured plates also include Helmets, Swords and shield bosses.