Listening tips: Norse mythology

One of my favourite childhood books was Kevin Crossley-Holland’s The Norse Myths. I can’t recall the number of times I read and re-read it, soaking up the imagery of the magical far North and the fascinating tales of its gods and goddesses, various supernatural beings, and their interactions with humans. It’s a world both cruel and heroic, mythical yet down-to-earth, filled with rich symbolism and timeless wisdom.

In this instalment of my monthly listening tips, I’d like to share a few podcasts and radio programmes on the subject of Norse mythology. If you don’t know much about it, some of them will serve as a good introduction to the topic, while others go deeper into very specific aspects of the Norse culture.

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In Our Time: The Norse Gods

A radio programme that gets a lot of mention on my blog, In Our Time from the BBC Radio 4 always delivers. This 45-minute episode is a discussion on the key elements of the Viking myths. The panel includes literary experts and archaeologists explaining the unique Norse theology and its role in the everyday life of the Vikings.

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Nordic Mythology Podcast

Probably the single most popular podcast series dedicated to Norse mythology, at the time of writing the Nordic Mythology Podcast contains over 200 episodes that delve into all things Norse: from the myths themselves to various aspects of the ancient culture(s) of Scandinavia and the adjacent lands. Each episode is a treasure trove of information that will make you want to find out more.

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Between Two Ravens

Between Two Ravens is a Norse mythology podcast with a twist: its hosts focus on the psychological significance of the Norse myth, interpreted through a Jungian lens. If you like mythology and have an interest in psychoanalysis, this podcast series will give you a lot of food for thought.

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Mimir’s Well

My final tip is the podcast series Mimir’s Well, which is a neo-pagan / Asatru take on the Norse mythology, as well as some of the ritual practices and beliefs of the Germanic religion, as practiced today – from rune casting to modern shamanism.

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If you have some more listening tips on the subject of Norse myths, please share them in the comments section below!

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COVER PHOTO CREDIT

Carla Santiago via Unsplash