Vikingology Podcast · The Art and Science of the Viking Age

Of shieldmaidens and stories...

·1 hr 31 min·5 clips
Terri challenges two authors on whether shieldmaidens were real, citing the contentious BJ581 grave and its weaponry.
Hosts Terri and C.J. interview authors Johanna Wittenberg and K.S. Barton about writing historical fiction set in the Viking Age. They debate the balance between accuracy and storytelling, explore evidence for shieldmaidens like the BJ581 grave, and discuss challenges such as portraying slavery and using modern language. The conversation also touches on their personal inspirations and skepticism towards AI in writing.

As heard by us

A lively conversation about Viking fiction, adaptation, and the small details that make the past feel lived in.

The episode pairs Terry Barnes with Johanna Wittenberg and K.S. Barton in a conversation that moves between Viking history, fiction, and adaptation.

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Why you'd press play

You want a lively Viking-age chat with authors who know the books and the TV detours.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
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