At the height of their power in the ninth and tenth centuries, the Vikings seemed invincible- conquering well-armed warriors whose ships were the ultimate in seafaring technology. From island bases near the deltas of major rivers, they used the waterways to scour the countryside, looting and burning towns, plundering merchant shipments, and stripping churches and monasteries of their gold, silver, and jeweled treasures. The Norsemen eventually penetrated...

Describes the beginning and development of Gothic architecture as manifested in the massive European cathedrals. Focuses on the lives of those involved with the new architectural crusade--laborers, artisans, and churchmen.

Swan Dive focuses on "Blue" Heron, a down-and-out detective with a roaming eye who gets much too involved in a complex business deal, a deal which results in embezzlement, swindling, sexual misconduct, and murder. Along the way, Blue discovers a great deal about himself while trying to understand the subterfuge. One of his problems is that he often gets too entranced with whatever woman is nearest to be able to concentrate on the job he's being paid...

Traces the real and the mythical elements in the sixth-century Arthurian legend.

Discusses the Suez Canal from its conception to its final realization, emphasizing the participation of Ferdinand de Lesseps.

Recounts the adventures of Marco Polo who, with his father and uncle, journeyed to the court of Kublai Khan in China from 1271 to 1295.

Surveys the age of Charlemagne and his influence on subsequent periods of European history. Profusely illustrated with photographs of art dating from the time of Charlemagne.