Scientific American has an interesting article about a research project looking at Viking weaving, notably in Iceland, and based upon the examination of surviving cloth fragments. Now I realise describing the study thus may make some amused, and yes, it does read like something from Kingsley Amis or Tom Sharpe. However, like the researcher and the medieval weaver, be patient.
Although there may be an element to the study of that academic enthusiasm which sees everything, but everything, reflected in a particular project in this account, nonetheless what is argued is striking and revealing of many aspects of Icelandic life, society, economy and cultural adaption through the middle ages. Thus the significant relationship of women to economic activity, the changing relationship with Denmark in the later centuries, adaptability to climate change - that is by weaving a warmer cloth - and the complex world of commerce across the North Atlantic are all opened up for inspection and reflection.
The article can be seen at Viking Textiles Show Women Had Tremendous Power
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