"Twilight of the Æsir II" continues the exploration of the Viking Age and the gradual Christianization of Scandinavia. Carlin discusses the complex beliefs of the Viking-era Scandinavians, including their polytheistic religion and belief in supernatural beings like elves and dwarves. He emphasizes the difficulty in understanding these beliefs from a modern perspective and the challenges in interpreting historical sources.
The podcast delves into the political and religious changes occurring in Scandinavia during the late 10th and early 11th centuries. Carlin examines the roles of key figures such as Harald Bluetooth, Olaf Tryggvason, and Sweyn Forkbeard in the Christianization process and the consolidation of power in the Scandinavian kingdoms.
Carlin explores the expansion of Viking influence, including their raids on England and their eventual conquest of the country under Sweyn Forkbeard and his son Cnut the Great. He discusses the complex dynamics between the Vikings and the Anglo-Saxons, including periods of conflict, negotiation, and assimilation.
The episode also covers the gradual decline of traditional Norse religion and the increasing influence of Christianity in Scandinavia. Carlin examines the various methods used to convert the population, from peaceful missionary work to forceful conversion by rulers like Olaf Tryggvason.
Throughout the podcast, Carlin reflects on the lasting impact of the Viking Age on European history and culture, including the Norman conquest of England in 1066. He concludes by discussing the enduring legacy of Norse mythology in modern popular culture and the concept of cultural memory.
Listen to the full podcast episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5EgvwZM3UiXXZnjseJuaYi
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