Saga Thing

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Episode 13a - Viglund's Saga Mar 26, 2015

Show notes

The story of Viglund the Fair and his lady Ketilrid is a saga for lovers. This fifteenth century tale, the last of our warrior poet's sagas, covers several generations. Each generation features a case of true love coming up against the secular tradition of arranged marriage. Can Viglund and Ketilrid overcome the obstacles set in their way and join at last in wedded bliss? It never worked out for the other warrior poets, so why would this one be any different? Listen to find out, if you dare! This is a remarkable, if somewhat late, work of saga literature. While the passage of time has clearly affected the style and structuring of the warrior poet genre, in some ways this is the warrior poet saga you've been waiting for. Join us as we examine the romance of Viglund and Ketilrid on this episode of Saga Thing.

Saga Brief 3: Krákumál Mar 04, 2015

Show notes

Krákumál is an autobiographical poem of the legendary Viking hero Ragnar Loðbrók, composed and spoken while Ragnar awaits his death in the snakepit of King Ælla. We discuss the content and form of the poem, compare it to the Saga of Ragnar Loðbrók and His Sons, and examine the place of the History Channel's Vikings in the literary tradition of this legendary figure. There's also some discussion of kennings, quirks of early modern scholarship, and the evolution of literary fads throughout history. We also tackle the question "Unicorns: Fact or Fiction?" in a nearly serious manner.For more information, including links, translations of the relevant passages from the poem, and other cool stuff, visit our blog page: Saga Thing Podcast

Episode 12b - The Saga of Bjorn Champion of the Hitardal People (Judgments) Feb 11, 2015

Show notes

In the second part of Saga Thing’s look at The Saga of Bjorn Champion of the Hitardal People, John and Andy discuss the merits of the text, argue over the size and ferocity of the dragon, investigate Thord’s ill-fated encounter with a stranded seal, and share some interesting tidbits from Icelandic law codes about pornographic sculptures and naughty poetry. We also outlaw a rather deserving villain, choose our thingmen, and offer our thoughts on the saga’s overall quality. It’s a full episode with a nice balance of humor, scholarship, and speculation.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Icelandic legal definitions of níð and ýki as they relate to Bjorn’s Saga, follow this link to Alison Finlay’s excellent article on the subject:Monstrous Allegations: An Exchange of ýki in Bjarnar saga Hítdælakappa.

Episode 12a - The Saga of Bjorn Champion of the Hitardal People Jan 30, 2015

Show notes

The title is a mouthful, but some might call this saga an underappreciated gem of medieval Iceland. Like the other warrior poet's sagas, we’ve got a love triangle. This time Bjorn, a dashing swashbuckler who sports the impressive title “Champion of the Hitardal People,” loses the girl to his conniving rival, Thord Kolbeinsson. But this isn’t your average warrior poet saga. Rather than a series of duels and fights, these men trade verbal barbs in some of the raunchiest poetry saga literature has to offer. It isn’t all taunts and insulting verses, however. This saga has some depth and strong characterizations that make it an instant favorite for the men of Saga Thing.

Episode 11b - Kormak's Saga Judgments Dec 15, 2014

Show notes

In this episode, John and Andy discuss the problem of Thorveig's curse, Kormak's efforts to woo Steingerd, and the excellence of Bersi the Dueller. It's time to judge Kormak's Saga. Who will be chosen as thingman? Who will be outlawed? Will the Scottish giant get the recognition he deserves for his brief cameo? Download the episode and find out now!

Episode 11a - Kormak's Saga Nov 21, 2014

Show notes

If you’re a fan of erotic poetry and dueling, then this is the saga for you. Join us as we follow Kormak as he follows the lovely soled object of his affection, Steingerd. Yes, I said soled and I meant it. She’s got nice feet and Kormak is just into that sort of thing it seems. Who are we to judge? Along the way you’ll meet the scoundrel Narfi, a witch in a questionable relationship with a walrus, and a surprising visit from a Scottish giant. Yes, this saga has a bit of everything. So what are you waiting for. It’s time for Kormak’s Saga!

Episode 10b - The Saga of Hallfred Troublesome-Poet (Judgments) Sep 19, 2014

Show notes

Lusting for bloodshed? Wondering about witticisms? Will Hallfred be outlawed for seducing another man's wife or will he be chosen as thingman? And will Andy stay awake through John's ramblings?

Find out as we judge the Saga of Hallfred Troublesome-poet.

Episode 10a - The Saga of Hallfred Troublesome-Poet Sep 17, 2014

Show notes

In this episode, we continue our journey through the Sagas of Warrior-Poets in The Saga of Hallfred Troublesome-Poet. Though you've never heard of him, this court poet for 3 of Scandinavia's greatest rulers is actually quite famous. As his nickname suggests Hallfred's poetry often lands him in hot water. He's a suave lover, a witty poet, and a capable warrior. We'll sample some of the poetry that made him famous, examine his difficult conversion to Christianity, and cheer as he gouges out the eyes of his enemies. There's plenty of action and adventure here, with a fair amount of hot lovin' too. But it's Hallfred's relationship with King Olaf Tryggvason that really makes this one special. We hope you enjoy.

Saga Brief 2: Holmgang, or The Icelandic Art of Dueling Jul 31, 2014

Show notes

In this episode, John and Andy square off in a fight for the ages as Saga Thing examines the Icelandic art of dueling. The Duel at Skiringshal by Johannes Flintoe

Episode 9b - The Saga of Gunnlaug Serpent-Tongue (Judgments) May 16, 2014

Show notes

As always, we count up the bodies and offer praise to the wittiest saga lines before getting down to the more difficult choices. With no clear villain in the story, who will be outlawed? Would either Gunnlaug or Hrafn make a good thingman? There's one clear gem of a thingman in this saga, but John's choosing first. What happens when Andy doesn't get his way? Find out in the Judgment section for The Saga of Gunnlaug Serpent-Tongue.
The Parting of Gunnlaug and Helga by Charles Fairfax Murray

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