Today I speak with Dr. John Hines, Professor of Archaeology at the School of History, Archaeology, and Religion at Cardiff University. We discuss the origin of the Old Norse language and the influence it has had across the medieval world. Additionally, we discuss the Old Norse system of writing (runes) and early examples of this type of writing.

Be sure to check out my new book  The Poetic Edda: A Study Guide.

The Poetic Edda is a collection of medieval Icelandic poems about the Norse gods and their human heroes. It is a crucial source for Norse myth and has inspired the literary works of J.R.R. Tolkein and the operas of Richard Wagner.

Referenced in Today’s Episode:

Dr. John Hines Biography, Work, and Publications

Recommended Articles by Ancient History Encyclopedia:

The Vikings in Iceland

Vikings TV Series – Truths and Fictions

Vikings: Jewelry, Weapons & Social Change at The VIKINGR Exhibition

Follow The History of Vikings on YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.

Feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, suggestions or inquiries [email protected]

Music: Danheim – Framganga & Folkvangr