MEN OF THE NORTH: WALDEMAR JANUSZCZAK UNCOVERS VIKING, ANGLO-SAXON & CAROLINGIAN ART

Cinemavixion Review

Waldemar Januszczak embarks on a compelling journey through the artistic landscapes of the early medieval period in "Men Of The North." This episode masterfully navigates the distinct yet interconnected worlds of Viking, Carolingian, and Anglo-Saxon artistry. Januszczak illuminates the Vikings not just as raiders, but as skilled artisans, particularly evident in their shipbuilding, while also exploring their complex relationship with Christianity and the significance of monuments like the Jelling stones. The Carolingian era is presented through the lens of imperial ambition, with Charlemagne's reign and the Palatine Chapel in Aachen offering a fascinating, if debated, reflection of power and faith. The ingenuity of the Anglo-Saxons is brought to life through treasures like the Sutton Hoo hoard. Ultimately, Januszczak posits that in this transformative age, it was the enduring power of the written word, embodied in works like the breathtaking Lindisfarne Gospels, that truly shaped history and left an indelible mark on art.