Saga Thing

Saga Brief 1: The Blood-Eagle

In our first ever Saga Brief, we explore the legendary Viking torture ritual known as the blood-eagle.  It's a brilliantly violent practice with a complicated, but fascinating textual history.  In short, it's perfect for the boys of Saga Thing.  Whether the blood-eagle is a historical method of ritual torture and execution or merely a literary motif designed to thrill and frighten, this is some pretty horrific stuff. 

Episode 7 - The Saga of Ragnar Lothbrok and His Sons

In this special episode, we take a break from the family sagas of medieval Iceland and look forward to the second season of History Channel’s Vikings by delving into the medieval sagas and legends behind the show.  Discussion centers on The Saga of Ragnar Lothbrok and his Sons, but Saxo Grammaticus’ Gesta Danorum, the Krákumál, and The Saga of Ragnar’s Sons are referenced here as well.  There’s a bit of history, a bit of myth, and a few laughs to be had along the way.  If you’re unfamiliar with the show, maybe this episode will entice you to give Vikings a try.  You can check out the first season at http://www.history.com/shows/vikings.  If you’re not a fan of the show (for shame), then listen anyway. This is a podcast about Ragnar Lothbrok, his family, and the legends surrounding their exploits in medieval Europe.  We hope you enjoy.

Episode 6: The Saga of Hen-Thorir

In this episode, meet the despicable and conniving Hen-Thorir, an unpopular businessman whose shameless lust for status and respect leads to a high stakes feud that consumes the Borgafjord district of West Iceland.  Loosely based on historical events, this is an instant classic noted for its brilliant acts of deception and social maneuvering. Through it's cleverly drawn characters and wonderfully plotted narrative, Hen-Thorir's Saga contrasts the noble with the ignoble, offering us a fascinating and entertaining glimpse into the heart of medieval Iceland's exploration of good vs. bad leadership.  Things get pretty complicated as nearly every big name in Borgafjord is drawn into the conflict.  Though few of them actually have a personal stake in the origin of the conflict, there is much to be gained for those who choose the right side.  For those who choose poorly, things rarely turn out well.  Game of Thrones fans should enjoy this one.  

Episode 5b - Gisli's Saga (Judgments)

It's time to judge Gisli's Saga. Join John and Andy on a tour through the saga's best bloodshed, body count, nicknames, and notable witticisms.  The titular character of Eirik's the Red's Saga was outlawed last time, will it happen again to Gisli?  Or will Andy defend him against the charges of murder and claim him as thingman? Find out in this episode of Saga Thing.

Plus, it's your last chance to hear John's impression of Gisli Wayne.  How can you pass that up?

Episode 5a - Gisli's Saga

The tragic story of the outlaw Gisli Sursson, whose profound sense of honor forces him into violent action.  Whereas most Icelanders who receive the penalty of outlawry flee the land and seek their fortune abroad, Gisli refuses to leave his wife, Aud, behind to fend for herself.  Unfailingly devoted to his wife, Gisli slips through the fingers of the bounty hunters Bork the Stout, Eyolf, and Helgi the Spy time and time again.  Join us as we review one of Icelandic literature's most endearing and heroic characters as we call Gisli's Saga to the Thing.

Gisli Sursson's Saga and The Saga of the People of Eyri (Penguin Classics)