358: Viking Sorcery

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic and Tom Holland are joined by Professor Neil Price to explore the complex and often unsettling world of the Vikings, moving beyond popular stereotypes to delve into their spirituality, magical practices, and relationship with the supernatural. They discuss the Viking worldview, influenced by Norse myths and shamanistic traditions of the Sami people, and challenge the modern separation of religion and the secular, examining the roles of gods like Odin and the terrifying Valkyries. The conversation covers a range of topics, including ritual sacrifice, the significance of magic in Viking life, and the enduring impact of their beliefs on later folklore, revealing a culture far more complex and ambiguous than commonly portrayed.