About this episode
This episode explores the theory that Beowulf originated on Gotland and discusses various related archaeological and historical aspects.
Did Beowulf really live on Gotland? In this episode of Exploring the Viking Age, we sit down with Hans Wanneby and Rikard Evertsson to explore one of the most fascinating theories surrounding the Beowulf poem. Together, we dive into: • The theory that Beowulf originated on Gotland • Ancient place names connected to the saga • Archaeological finds and reconstructed migration period environments • Picture stones, dragons, and celestial events • The catastrophe of 536 and its possible connection to the poem • Tolkien’s fascination with Beowulf • The search for what may be Beowulf’s final resting place We also explore how myth, oral tradition, archaeology, and landscape may preserve fragments of a story that has survived for over 1500 years. Subscribe to stay updated! Also available on all major podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and more. Find all links here: https://linktr.ee/grimfrost
People in this episode
Guests: Hans Wanneby, Rikard Evertsson
Topics covered
- Beowulf origins
- Gotland
- archaeology
- myth and oral tradition
- migration period
- Tolkien's influence
Keywords
- Beowulf
- Gotland
- archaeology
- migration period
- Tolkien
- myth
- oral tradition
- picture stones
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Beowulf
Places: Gotland
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