Final answer:
Runes in the context of the passage refer to the runic alphabet used by Vikings, carved in angular shapes on stones which have provided insight into their culture and history.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word runes refers to the characters of an ancient alphabet used by the Vikings, known as the runic alphabets, which stem from older Germanic languages prior to the adaptation of the Latin alphabet. These angular letters were designed without horizontal or vertical strokes to prevent splitting when carved into materials like wood or stone. Runestones with inscribed runic alphabets often served as memorials or markers, conveying messages about battles, conquests, social standings, and sometimes included figurative descriptions or personal achievements.
Runic inscriptions are a critical source of historical information about the Vikings as they provide a glimpse into their language, culture, and experiences. Moreover, they are a testament to the Viking's presence across different regions, with thousands of these stones still found today.