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HistoryExtra podcast

HistoryExtra podcast

How Orkney became the centre of Viking Age violence

May 24, 2026 · 42m

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On this episode

About this episode

For much of the Viking Age, the Orkney archipelago served as a vibrant hub of Norse activity. But these islands were also plagued by violence, not least between the Earls of Orkney themselves, as they vied for control. Speaking to James Osborne about her new translation of the Saga of the Earls of Orkney, Judith Jesch traces these centuries of conflict, and shares her insights into what they tell us about the Norse peoples who lived there. ----- GO BEYOND THE PODCAST For more stories from the Vikings, listen to our episode with Jackson Crawford, speaking about his translation of the Poetic Edda: https://bit.ly/4mOHZDS Or check out our episode with Emily Lethbridge, reflecting on the life of…