THE VIKINGS

Professor Harl has divided his lectures into three parts: evolution of the Scandinavian civilization, the course and impact of Viking raids, and the passing of the Viking Age. His throaty and forceful voice blasts occasional consonants so strongly one can almost hear the saliva hit the microphone. At other times he softens down to a volume so low that only his lips could be moving. Grammar slips occur in his enthusiasm--"there is weapons," "there is references"--but his superb ability with the rare vocabulary of the times redeems those small errors. Nine times he has earned Tulane University's annual student award for excellence in teaching. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]