Episode Details

Eleanor Barraclough discusses the Kievan Rus, where Norse leaders eventually assimilated into Slavic populations, changing names like Helga to Olga. A significant archaeological mystery is the Salme ships in Estonia, dated to 750 AD — decades before the Lindisfarne raid — containing high-status Swedes with gaming pieces, hunting dogs, and falcons, suggesting a failed diplomatic mission rather than a raid. The popular board game Hnefatafl is highlighted as a cultural staple played across all social classes. (3)