Episode #157- How Should We Remember Attila the Hun? (Part I)

In this episode of "Our Fake History," the host, Sebastian Major, delves into the history and myths surrounding Attila the Hun, questioning his traditional portrayal as a bloodthirsty villain. The episode begins by exploring the Nibelungenlied and contrasting its depiction of Attila as the noble King Etzel with the common Western image of him as a demonic figure. Sebastian discusses the historical context of the 5th century AD, including the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, and examines the origins of the Hun people, considering the theory that they descended from the Xiongnu. He analyzes Roman accounts that paint the Huns as monstrous barbarians, highlighting the biases in these sources. The episode further explores the Huns' interactions with the Roman Empire, noting their complex relationship involving both conflict and treaties. It concludes with the rise of Ruga and his nephews, Bleda and Attila, setting the stage for Attila's reign and the transformation of the Hunnic Empire.