Morbid Podcast Summary: Episode 623 - Fan Favorite: The Violent Deaths of Bog Bodies
Released on December 2, 2024, by Morbid Network | Wondery
Introduction to Bog Bodies
In this captivating episode, hosts Drew and Ash delve into the eerie and fascinating world of bog bodies—ancient human remains preserved in peat bogs. These well-preserved bodies offer a unique glimpse into the past, primarily found in northern Europe and dating back thousands of years.
Drew sets the stage by explaining, “These are whole ass people, preserved for like thousands of years” (09:15), highlighting the extraordinary preservation that allows us to study them today.
The Preservation Process
The episode explores the science behind why bog bodies remain so intact. Drew explains the role of peat and sphagnum moss in preservation:
Drew: “Peat is a material created by the slow decomposition of organic matter... Sphagnum moss is actually one of the big reasons why peat is able to preserve” (14:16).
This combination creates an anaerobic environment that slows down decomposition, preserving skin, hair, and even clothing.
Ash adds humorously, “Yeah, I'm happy for you” (13:16), referring to the delicate preservation process.
Notable Bog Bodies
Elling Woman
Discovered in Denmark in 1938 by farmer Jens Zacharison, the Elling Woman is estimated to have been around 25 years old at the time of her death. She was found wrapped in multiple layers of sheepskin and cowhide, with a leather rope tied around her neck in a slipknot.
Drew: “She had long hair that had been intricately braided before she was killed... It looks like a wig” (29:10).
The Elling Woman is believed to have been a ritualistic sacrifice, possibly a fertility offering to the gods.
Tolland Man
Found 12 years after the Elling Woman in the same Danish bog, the Tolland Man is one of the most preserved bog bodies. Estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, he was found naked with a pointed cap and in a peaceful fetal position.
Drew: “He looks like he is sleeping... his face shows every line and wrinkle” (31:16).
His last meal was identified as porridge with grains and bony fish, consumed 12 to 24 hours before his death.
Edie Girl
Unearthed in the Netherlands in 1897 by peat cutters, the Edie Girl was approximately 14 to 16 years old at her death. She was found mutilated with a large gash across her throat and had a significant lock of fiery red hair.
Drew: “They thought it was the devil because she had a big lock of fiery red hair” (33:33).
Despite initial fear and superstition, her remains were carefully preserved by the National Museum of Denmark.
Cloney Caven Man and Old Krogan Man
Both discovered in Ireland's Clooney Caven County Meath in 2003, these men exhibited signs of brutal murders. Cloney Caven Man had a styled mohawk-like haircut using plant oil, indicating a high social status.
Drew: “They were clearly of the upper echelon of social class... well nourished and well manicured nails” (44:25).
Old Krogan Man showed signs of torture, including hazel branches threaded through his arms, suggesting ritualistic abuse before his death.
Gr Bale Man
Found in Denmark in 1952, the Gr Bale Man was shredded by peat-cutting machinery but remained largely intact. He exhibited a gaping throat wound and signs of severe bodily trauma.
Drew: “A huge, very intense slice across the throat... carotid arteries and the jugular vein were severed” (64:14).
This case underscores the extreme violence associated with some bog bodies and the meticulous preservation despite such injuries.
Haldremose Woman
Discovered in 1879 near Haldremose, Denmark, this woman was around 40 years old at her death. Her remains showed evidence of severe mutilation, including a hacked-off arm and bound limbs.
Drew: “She was killed around 160 BCE... her left leg had been hacked at as well” (66:38).
Ritualistic Significance and Theories
The hosts discuss various theories regarding the purpose behind the violent deaths of bog bodies. One prevailing theory is that these individuals were ritually sacrificed to appease gods or as a form of punishment.
Drew: “They were being punished because by doing this they were remaining in the in-between place where their body couldn't even decompose” (21:44).
Ash humorously remarks, “It's like they were creating man-made purgatory” (21:44), emphasizing the grim nature of these rituals.
Scientific Insights and Discoveries
Advancements in technology have allowed scientists to extract more information from bog bodies over time. DNA analysis, isotopic studies, and advanced imaging techniques have provided deeper insights into their lives, diets, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Drew: “As technology and science goes forward... they're getting more and more from these bodies” (46:23).
One intriguing discovery is the use of plant-based hair gel by ancient societies, as seen in the Cloney Caven Man, suggesting a sophisticated understanding of hair styling (41:34).
Case Study: Bog Body Mix-Up
A particularly fascinating segment covers a modern case where bog body remains were mistakenly linked to a recent murder:
In 1983, peat cutters in Cheshire, England, discovered a well-preserved female skull, initially thought to be a recent victim. This led to the arrest of Peter Rainbark for unrelated crimes. However, forensic analysis later revealed the skull was over 1,700 years old, debunking the link and exonerating Rainbark.
Drew: “It was a solid case of murder... but later determined to be a woman who died about 1,700 years ago” (56:26).
Conclusion and Future Studies
The episode wraps up by reflecting on the grim yet fascinating legacy of bog bodies. Drew and Ash express amazement at the level of preservation and the insights these remains provide into ancient human societies.
Ash: “I've never heard of those before” (68:16), highlighting the enduring mystery and allure of bog bodies.
Drew: “It's a very interesting thing... just so cool” (67:20), emphasizing the blend of horror and historical intrigue that bog bodies embody.
The hosts hint at future episodes that will delve deeper into more bog body discoveries, promising listeners continued exploration of these ancient mysteries.
Notable Quotes
- Drew (09:15): “These are people who would only be able to study from things that we find. And if we find things, it's like, whoa. We found this ancient thing from 2,000 years ago.”
- Drew (14:16): “Peat is a material created by the slow decomposition of organic matter... Sphagnum moss is actually one of the big reasons why peat is able to preserve.”
- Drew (29:10): “She had long hair that had been intricately braided before she was killed... It looks like a wig.”
- Drew (31:16): “He looks like he is sleeping... his face shows every line and wrinkle.”
- Drew (33:33): “They thought it was the devil because she had a big lock of fiery red hair.”
- Drew (44:25): “They were clearly of the upper echelon of social class... well nourished and well manicured nails.”
- Drew (21:44): “They were being punished because by doing this they were remaining in the in-between place where their body couldn't even decompose.”
- Drew (56:26): “It was a solid case of murder... but later determined to be a woman who died about 1,700 years ago.”
- Drew (67:20): “It's a very interesting thing... just so cool.”
Final Thoughts
Episode 623 of Morbid offers a detailed and spine-chilling exploration of bog bodies, blending scientific discovery with historical horror. Through meticulous research and engaging discussion, Drew and Ash illuminate the dark past of these ancient remains, making the episode a must-listen for true crime and history enthusiasts alike.
For those interested in exploring more about bog bodies and other macabre histories, tune into Morbid on the Wondery app or your preferred podcast platform.