264. Viking Greenland: Mysteries of the Lost Norse Settlers (Ep 2)

The podcast explores the Norse exploration and eventual decline in Greenland, focusing on their interaction with the supernatural, mythological, and religious elements of the time. It highlights the Norse discovery of North America, particularly the Vinland Sagas, and the debate around the location of Vinland, discussing the significance of butternuts found at L'Anse aux Meadows. The discussion covers the cultural blending and clashes between the Norse and the indigenous populations, termed "Skræling," and the factors contributing to the Norse settlements' decline, including climate change, resource depletion, and the impact of the Black Death on trade routes. The hosts and guest, Eleanor Barraclough, analyze the sagas and archaeological evidence to understand the Norse worldview and their eventual disappearance from Greenland.