Gone Medieval
History Hit
From long-lost Viking ships to kings buried in unexpected places; from murders and power politics, to myths, religion, the lives of ordinary people: Gone Medieval is History Hit’s podcast dedicated to the middle ages, in Europe and far beyond.New episodes every Tuesday and Friday.A podcast by History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts Dan Snow's History Hit, The Ancients, and Betwixt the Sheets.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 17, 2025 • 58min
Ragnarok & The End of the World
Dive into the fascinating world of Norse mythology as the hosts unravel the epic tale of Ragnarok. Explore the chilling prophecy of the Fimbulwinter, where monsters unleash chaos in a bleak winter. Discover the colorful etymology of the term 'Ragnarok' and how it reflects the Viking mind. Delve into the symbolic battles between gods like Thor and Jormungandr. The discussion even ties Ragnarok's destruction to contemporary environmental anxieties and highlights the enduring nature of renewal amidst catastrophe. A blend of myth, history, and hope awaits!
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 6min
How to Reach Valhalla
In this engaging discussion, Carolyne Larrington, a scholar of Old Norse literature, dives into the enchanting world of Norse mythology. She unpacks the role of Valkyries as fierce choosers of the slain and explores Valhalla as Odin's hall for warriors. Larrington contrasts heroic and unheroic deaths, revealing how these beliefs inspired Viking ideals of valor and raiding. She also sheds light on the societal reflections in these myths, including the portrayal of women and the lasting influence of Norse tales in modern culture.
8 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 1h 14min
Thor and Loki
Carolyne Larrington, a renowned medievalist and expert on Norse literature, dives deep into the myths of Thor and Loki. She explores Thor's dual nature as both a powerful and ridiculed deity and unpacks Loki’s complex identity as more than just a trickster. The discussion unveils their dynamic as a brains and brawn duo, the origins of Thor’s iconic hammer, and the moral ambiguity surrounding Loki's actions. Listeners will enjoy insights on their shifting relationships and contemporary interpretations of these legendary figures.
13 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 12min
Odin, Asgard & the Norse Gods
In this engaging discussion, Professor Carolyne Larrington, an expert in Old Norse literature, dives deep into the complexities of Odin, the multifaceted god of wisdom and war. She recounts Odin's quest for knowledge, including his self-sacrifice on Yggdrasil to acquire runes. The tragic tale of Baldr unfolds, highlighting Frigg's fatal oversight. Larrington weaves in tales of Loki's shapeshifting antics and the symbolism of Odin's ravens, creating captivating insights into how these myths mirror human nature and societal values.
Oct 3, 2025 • 1h 6min
Norse Mythology: Creation Myths
Join King Gilfey, an engaging narrator and character, as he unveils the enchanting Norse creation myths. He shares tales of the primordial giant Ymir and the cosmic cow Odhumla, revealing how Odin fashioned the world from Ymir’s body. Discover the intriguing origins of dwarves and the celestial bodies, alongside the divine creation of humans from wood. Gilfey also reflects on Norse cosmology, the significance of Yggdrasil, and the complexities of myth, all while navigating this mystical journey through Asgard.
15 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
Ballads of Love and Death
Join Amy Jeffs, an author known for her creative reimaginings of traditional ballads, as she delves into the captivating world of medieval music and folklore. In this engaging discussion, she explores themes of love and morality through haunting ballads, revealing their oral roots and narrative forms. Amy highlights the collaborative process of transforming these songs into stories with illustrations and music. Additionally, she shares insights on the contemporary relevance of ballads and their mesmerizing tales of temptation, fairy encounters, and survival.
18 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 59min
King Arthur
Dr. Mary Bateman, a lecturer at the University of Bristol and expert on Arthurian traditions, joins Matt Lewis to unpack the enduring legend of King Arthur. They discuss Arthur's transformation from a Roman warlord in early texts to a romantic hero in the Middle Ages. Mary explores the political motives behind Geoffrey of Monmouth's tales and Arthur's connections across Europe, revealing how his story reshaped notions of kingship and ideal leadership. The podcast also highlights the importance of powerful women in these narratives and Arthur's ongoing relevance in modern culture.
29 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 58min
Prophecies of Merlin
Join renowned Arthurian scholar John Matthews, an expert in myth and the Grail tradition, as he unveils the freshly translated Prophecies of Merlin. Discover Merlin's darker origins and his entrapment by the Lady of the Lake. Matthews delves into how prophetic texts served political purposes and reveals a more human side of Merlin. The conversation also explores the connections between Merlin, Prester John, and the intriguing relics that captured medieval imaginations, painting a vivid picture of this mystical era.
12 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 50min
Æthelstan: The Birth of England
David Woodman, a historian and author, delves into the life of Æthelstan, the first King of the English. He highlights Æthelstan’s pivotal role in unifying England and his innovative use of marriage diplomacy to solidify power. The discussion also covers the dramatic capture of York, the significance of the Æmout Bridge Assembly, and the legacy left by the Battle of Brunanburh. Woodman sheds light on how Æthelstan's reign laid the groundwork for modern England, making him a crucial yet often overlooked figure in history.
10 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h
The Real Eleanor of Aquitaine
In this discussion, Professor Lindy Grant, a Medieval History expert and author, unpacks the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine, a monarch who redefined power dynamics in the Middle Ages. They delve into her strategic marriages and political acumen, revealing how she navigated treachery and loyalty, especially during the tumultuous reigns of Louis and Henry II. The conversation also addresses her influence on culture, her relationships with her sons, and the often-misunderstood legacy of this formidable queen.
