How Orkney became the centre of Viking Age violence

24 May 2026 · 42 min · Episode 2547

Episode How Orkney became the centre of Viking Age violence

0:00 41:50

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.

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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 Aud the Deep-Minded: https://bit.ly/41Ro9y9

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