Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

What Did The Vikings Really Look Like?

Sep 20, 2024

Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, an expert on the Viking Age and author of *Embers of the Hands*, joins to discuss Viking beauty and grooming routines. Discover how Vikings were more than just raiders; they were trendsetters in hairstyles and personal hygiene. Delve into their intriguing cultural exchanges with the Anglo-Saxons and the social significance of beards and body modifications. Learn about the often-overlooked roles of Viking women who defied typical beauty norms. This conversation reshapes our understanding of Viking identity and their nuanced legacy.

40:04

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Episode guests

Eleanor Barraclough

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Quick takeaways

The Vikings were not only fierce raiders but also trendsetters in personal grooming and beauty standards, reflecting their societal values.

Gender dynamics in Viking society reveal a complex interplay between beauty, strength, and agency, often overshadowed by male narratives in historical accounts.

Deep dives

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Intro

3min

Viking Beauty and Cultural Exchange

16min

Cultural Interactions: Hygiene and Social Dynamics in History

3min

Viking Grooming: Culture and Practices

12min

Exploring Viking Appearance: Beards, Insults, and Beauty Standards

2min

Unveiling Viking Women

7min

Engagement and Gift-Giving Promotions

2min

Were the Vikings the original trendsetters?

Even when they were raiding the poor monks in Lindsfarne in 793, they were passing on hairstyles that annoyed some of the local elders.

Why did they file their teeth? How often did they bathe? And what influence did their gods have on all of this?

Joining Kate today to explore the beauty standards of the Vikings is Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, author of Embers of the Hands: Hidden Histories of the Viking Age.

This episode was edited by Tom Delargy. The producer was Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.

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Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.

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