The Small World of the Vikings: Networks in Early Medieval Communication and Exchange
Søren M. Sindbæk
This study explores the potential of complex network theory as a new approach to organisation and dynamics communication in early history. It shows how pins down shortcomings existing archaeological conceptions trade exchange. Moreover, it supplies series new, relevant questions this subject, models guide their solution. Analysing two examples, article charts affiliations persons sites ninth‐century literary description Anskar's vita, distribution artefact types large number Early Viking Age South Scandinavia. key features networks can be outlined fragmentary sample links. long‐distance exchange is shown have generated small group hubs, but lacked another feature, typically found mature, robust networks: connections rarely reached across hierarchical levels. made vulnerable systemic collapse, points salient difference between medieval communications modern globalisation.
Norwegian Archaeological Review