In Search of the Great Viking Army

The search for the Great Viking Army is both literal and figurative. For years, scholars have tried to answer the questions surrounding this supposed “army” — What, exactly, was it? How big was it? Who fought in it? Who commanded it, and what were their goals? In this episode we welcome back friend of the show archaeologist Tom Horne to help us answer these questions and understand the exciting ways our knowledge of the Great Army is changing. If you’ve ever wondered what the difference between a Viking raider and a Viking army warrior was, this episode has you covered!

Another crucial question has been, where did the Army go? Turns out it was likely right in Tom’s backyard in central and northern Scotland all along. For evidence, Tom shows us some artifacts at Dunblane Museum and explains what they tell us about the Viking presence in places we’ve not known about until now.

To keep up with all the latest updates and finds, check out Tom’s website and Viking blog. We also highly recommend his book A Viking Market Kingdom in Ireland and Britain, which gives context for the trade networks and silver fever that helped to drive the Great Army’s expansion.

Also follow Tom on his several social media platforms to read more about his work and see lots of really cool images of Viking stuff.

Thanks Tom. We look forward to next time and more epiphanies!

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