Tides of History Interview with Professor Tom Birkett on "Runes: A Concise History"
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Jan 1, 2026 Tom Birkett, a Professor of Old Norse and author of Runes: A Concise History, dives into the fascinating world of runic writing. He clarifies the practical use of runes beyond their magical associations, illustrating how they reveal personal relationships and everyday life in medieval Scandinavia. Birkett discusses their enduring presence in society, the significance of gold bracteates, and the complex nature of Iron Age Germanic cultures. He also shares insights on recent discoveries that transform our understanding of runes and their emotional impact.
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Runes Are A Practical Script
- Runes are primarily a script for everyday writing, not inherently magical or occult.
- Tom Birkett argues popular 'runes and magic' framing misleads public understanding of their historical use.
Waterlogged Sites Reveal Everyday Literacy
- Waterlogged archaeological contexts like medieval Bergen preserve abundant everyday runic writing.
- Those finds reveal trade, business notes, curses, and informal communication among ordinary people.
Shape Reflects Medium
- The angular shape of runes suits carving into wood and stone because straight lines survive wood grain and are easier to carve.
- That functional constraint helps explain the distinctive appearance of runic characters.
