Eleanor Barraclough

Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking history expert from Durham University, as she navigates the fascinating world of Norse sagas. Discover how the Vikings established their unique society in Iceland and their adventurous explorations to America. Unearth the complexities of their transition to Christianity, the significant role of sagas in preserving culture, and the intriguing supernatural elements within these narratives. Delve into the rich tapestry of Viking life and learn how their stories shaped history.

Eleanor Barraclough, an authority on Viking history and author of 'Embers of the Hand', joins to unravel the enigmatic fate of Viking settlers in Greenland. The discussion highlights their intriguing interactions with Inuit cultures and the eventual decline attributed to climate change. Barraclough also explores the clash of civilizations, from initial trade to conflicts, shedding light on the social upheaval that mirrored modern crises. The episode blends fascinating anecdotes and Viking mythology, enriching our understanding of this lost era.

Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking expert and author of "Embers of The Hands," discusses the fascinating Norse settlers in Greenland. She reveals how they adapted their diets beyond fish, relying on seal blubber for survival. Trade with Norway through walrus ivory emerges as a key theme, showcasing their economic ingenuity. Also, the podcast delves into the quirky side of Viking folklore, featuring 'horny zombies' and other eerie tales, blending humor with history in a captivating exploration of Viking life and culture.

Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking history expert from Bath Spa University, and comedian Kiell Smith-Bynoe for a delightful dive into the legendary Leif Erikson. They explore whether Erikson truly set foot in the Americas long before Columbus, unraveling the historical myths surrounding him. The discussion highlights Erikson's fierce sister Freydis and her complex relationships with Indigenous peoples. They also critique the Kensington stone hoax and showcase vibrant archaeological finds that illuminate Viking life in North America.

Eleanor Barraclough, the author of "Embers of the Hands: Hidden Histories of the Viking Age," sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of Viking life. She explores their romantic relationships and travel experiences beyond the raider stereotype. Barraclough discusses the rich interconnectedness of Viking cultures and their complex society, revealed through artifacts like a bog comb. She also examines the coexistence of pagan beliefs and emerging Christianity, showcasing the nuanced spirituality of the Norse people amidst their brutal reality.

Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, an expert in Viking history, as she sheds light on the fascinating lives of ordinary people from the Viking Age. Explore how archaeological artifacts like love letters and everyday tools unveil the intimate details of Viking life. Discover the overlooked roles of women and enslaved individuals in shaping history. Hear captivating tales of random discoveries, including treasured finds in midden heaps, that reveal the emotional landscape of a vibrant society. This deep dive brings to life the human connections that transcended time.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a historian specializing in medieval Norse history, reveals the intriguing life of Leif Erikson, possibly the first European to reach America. The conversation dives into the legendary sagas that shape our understanding of Erikson's adventures. They explore Viking shipbuilding, the women warriors highlighted in Greenland sagas, and the complicated interactions between Norse explorers and indigenous peoples. Archaeological evidence also sheds light on Viking presence in North America, blending history with humor.

Eleanor Barraclough, a cultural historian and broadcaster, shares fascinating insights into surviving in Viking Britain. She uncovers the harsh realities faced by settlers, from brutal weather to health challenges. The conversation highlights Viking societal structures and their complex interactions with local cultures. Barraclough also sheds light on archaeological discoveries that reveal living conditions and burial practices of the time. Join her as she explores York's transformation into a Viking hub and the everyday lives that shaped this intriguing era.

Eleanor Barraclough, historian and author, shares insights on the Viking Age's adaptation to Arctic climate changes. Duncan Depledge discusses the geopolitical race for Arctic resources, highlighting interests from the US, Russia, and China. Elder Olufsen, CEO of a mining company in Greenland, weighs in on balancing exploitation with indigenous rights. The discussion intertwines past Norse settlements with today's challenges, stressing the urgency of understanding the effects of climate change on both history and modern geopolitics.

Matt Lewis welcomes Dr. Eleanor Baraclough, an expert in Viking history and author of "Embers of the Hands." They explore the legendary journey of Leif Erikson, debating if he truly was the first European in North America. The conversation dives into Icelandic sagas, Viking expeditions, and the complex legacy of Norse settlers. They discuss enduring cultural impacts, the relationship between Vikings and indigenous peoples, and the myth versus reality of Erikson's adventures, shedding light on his significance in understanding identity and exploration.