About this episode
The episode discusses the role of mythology and shared historical identity in cultural ecosystems, particularly in Australia and Britain.
This talk explores the enduring power of shared historical identity in sustaining cultural ecosystems, from the mythic narratives of Hengest and Horsa in Anglo-Saxon England to the contested memory of Captain Cook in Britain and Australia. By tracing how ancient settlers wove history into sacred myth, and how explorers became immortalised as heroes or villains, we see the necessity of positive myth in binding communities together. Today, in the digital age, new technologies—from social media networks to global video platforms—serve as the bards and Muses of our time, enabling diasporic peoples across the Anglosphere to renew their connections and reimagine their founding stories. The talk argues that the future of cultural resilience lies in embracing these tools to create and share narratives that dignify our origins, reconcile divided traditions, and ensure that figures like Captain Cook and Hengest, and Horsa remain living symbols of identity for generations to come. This talk was delivered in twice in Australia in October 2025. This recording was from an event held by The Scyldings. Starting Heathenry: https://startingheathenry.thinkific.com
Topics covered
- cultural identity
- mythology
- historical narratives
- community bonding
- digital age
- cultural resilience
Keywords
- mythology
- cultural identity
- Captain Cook
- Hengest
- Horsa
- historical narratives
- digital age
- community
- cultural resilience
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: The Scyldings
Places: Australia, Britain, Anglosphere
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