This episode explores the intersection of folklore, geomythology, and climate change, using the Norse myth of Ragnarok as a central case study. Against the backdrop of a 2018 European heatwave, the speaker, a folklorist, reflects on the drying up of a marsh potentially linked to the Beowulf story, highlighting the loss of cultural significance alongside environmental degradation. More significantly, the episode introduces the concept of geomythology, arguing that myths like Ragnarok may reflect real historical climate catastrophes, such as the volcanic eruption or meteor strike around 536 CE, which caused a prolonged period of darkness and cold across Europe. For instance, the speaker cites evidence from tree rings and archaeological findings showing societal disruption and the replacement of older gods with new ones, mirroring the narrative of Ragnarok's apocalyptic and regenerative cycle. This suggests that folklore can offer valuable insights into past human resilience in the face of environmental challenges. The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of studying folklore not just for preserving culture, but also for understanding how cultures adapt and transform in response to crisis, suggesting that humanity can learn from past societal shifts to address present-day climate change.
