In this robust new account of the Vikings, Tom Shippey explores their mindset, and in particular their fascination with scenes of heroic death. The book recounts many of the great bravura scenes of Old Norse literature, including the Fall of the House of the Skjoldungs, the clash between the two great longships Ironbeard and Long Serpent and the death of Thormod the skald. The most exciting book on Vikings for a generation, Laughing Shall I Die presents them for what they were: not peaceful explorers and traders, but bloodthirsty warriors and marauders.

'Spirited, engaging and frequently very funny...an unmissable read for anyone interested in the Vikings.' - BBC History Magazine

'A fast-paced, exhilarating account of the psychology of the marauding Vikings.' - Wall Street Journal

'A mind-expanding appraisal and retelling of Viking history.' - Michael Dirda, Washington Post