Myths and Legends - Episode 413: European Folklore: Justice

Hosts: Jason Weiser and Carissa Weiser
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Podcast by: Nextpod

Overview

In Episode 413 of Myths and Legends, titled "European Folklore: Justice," hosts Jason and Carissa Weiser delve into captivating tales from European mythology and folklore that explore the intricate themes of love and justice. This episode presents three and a half stories that illuminate how justice has been perceived and enacted throughout medieval Europe, offering both well-known and obscure narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences.

1. The Bell of Justice

Timestamp: [00:00] – [18:30]

The episode kicks off with the enchanting story of The Bell of Justice, an artifact bestowed upon a medieval city by its lord. This bell promises that anyone brave enough to ring it will receive justice, regardless of their social standing. The lord's visionary attempt to democratize justice is met with skepticism by his advisors, who question why no one has rung the bell despite the lord's benevolent intentions.

Key Moments:

• Establishing the Bell's Purpose:

  • Lord: "You ring this bell, you get justice. You get a hearing. No matter the reason, big or small." ([04:35])
  • This declaration sets the stage for the city's hopeful pursuit of fairness.

• Community Apathy and Fear:

  • The lord is perplexed by the community's reluctance to use the bell, highlighting the entrenched fear of authority and the potential repercussions of seeking justice.

• The Unexpected Bell Ringer:

  • A famished horse chewing on the bell rope inadvertently rings the bell, symbolizing that justice can come from the most unexpected sources.
  • Knight: "It's not the bell cord I'm concerned about. It's the horse. The horse rang the bell for justice, and he is getting justice." ([12:45])

• Transformation of the Lord:

  • Witnessing the horse's plight prompts the lord to genuinely embrace his role as a just ruler, leading to a flourishing and harmonious city where the bell becomes a symbol of true equality.

• King Charlemagne's Involvement:

  • The legendary emperor Charlemagne hears of the bell and seeks to establish his own Bell of Justice in Zurich, intertwining historical figures with folklore.
  • Charlemagne: "I want a bell of justice. Here in Zurich." ([17:20])

2. The Tale of Pythias and Daemon

Timestamp: [18:30] – [43:00]

The second narrative revisits the ancient Greek legend of Pythias and Daemon, a story that epitomizes unwavering friendship and sacrifice in the face of tyranny. Set against the backdrop of a despotic ruler, Dionysius, the tale underscores the enduring power of loyalty and honor.

Key Moments:

• Dionysius's Tyranny:

  • Dionysius: "You have committed a crime against the Crown, and for that, you will be killed." ([25:10])
  • The tyrant's ruthless nature sets the stage for the profound act of friendship that follows.

• Pythias's Sacrifice:

  • When Pythias is condemned, his friend Daemon offers to take his place, embodying the ultimate act of selflessness.
  • Daemon: "I'll take his place in prison, and if he does not return in time, his place on the cross." ([30:45])

• The Race Against Time:

  • Pythias embarks on a perilous journey to rescue Daemon, facing adversity and demonstrating the true essence of friendship.
  • Narrator: "His arms and back tore faster than the cord that bound him." ([38:00])

• Transformation of the Tyrant:

  • Witnessing the genuine bond between Pythias and Daemon, Dionysius undergoes a profound change, contemplating the possibility of friendship and redemption.
  • Dionysius: "Maybe he could be the third friend in their number?" ([42:15])

• Modern Relevance:

  • The hosts draw parallels between the ancient story and modern societal dynamics, emphasizing that true friendship transcends power and status.
  • Carissa: "The story illustrates how power doesn't entitle someone to friendship or adoration." ([43:00])

3. The Snake and the Diamond

Timestamp: [43:00] – [54:13]

The episode briefly touches upon a lesser-known folklore tale involving a magical snake and a diamond bestowed as a token of gratitude. This story explores themes of unintended consequences and the complexities of seeking justice.

Key Moments:

• The Snake's Quest for Justice:

  • Snake: "Someone is using my bell. Someone is using my bell." ([46:50])
  • The snake intentionally rings the bell to seek justice, challenging the established order.

• Charlemagne's Interaction:

  • The emperor's encounter with the snake leads to an exchange that results in the gifting of a diamond, symbolizing unexpected rewards for acts of justice.
  • Charlemagne: "Can you give the snake justice?" ([50:30])

• Consequences of Greed:

  • The snake's subsequent actions, including vomiting a diamond, serve as a metaphor for the unforeseen repercussions of actions taken under the guise of justice.
  • Host: "The snake vomited up a large, magnificent diamond to say thanks for slaying the toad and saving her children." ([53:40])

Insights and Discussions

Throughout the episode, Jason and Carissa engage in thoughtful discussions that tie these folklore narratives to broader societal themes:

• Justice and Its Implementation:

  • The stories highlight the delicate balance between authority and benevolence, illustrating how true justice requires courage, empathy, and sometimes, unexpected sources.

• Power and Responsibility:

  • The transformation of rulers like the lord in "The Bell of Justice" and Dionysius in "Pythias and Daemon" underscores the profound impact of personal growth and the responsible use of power.

• Friendship and Sacrifice:

  • The unwavering loyalty between Pythias and Daemon serves as a timeless reminder of the strength and significance of genuine friendship.

• Modern Reflections:

  • The hosts draw contemporary parallels, suggesting that the principles of these ancient tales remain relevant in today's world, particularly in areas like governance, social justice, and personal relationships.

Conclusion

Episode 413 of Myths and Legends masterfully intertwines historical folklore with timeless lessons on justice, power, and friendship. Through engaging storytelling and insightful commentary, Jason and Carissa Weiser offer listeners a rich exploration of European folk tales that not only entertain but also provoke thoughtful reflection on the enduring human quest for fairness and meaningful connections.

Notable Quotes:

• Lord: "You ring this bell, you get justice. You get a hearing. No matter the reason, big or small." ([04:35])

• Knight: "It's not the bell cord I'm concerned about. It's the horse. The horse rang the bell for justice, and he is getting justice." ([12:45])

• Daemon: "I'll take his place in prison, and if he does not return in time, his place on the cross." ([30:45])

• Dionysius: "Maybe he could be the third friend in their number?" ([42:15])

• Host: "The snake vomited up a large, magnificent diamond to say thanks for slaying the toad and saving her children." ([53:40])

Looking Ahead

In the next episode, Jason and Carissa promise to transport listeners to the mythical realms of The Monkey King, where characters like Pigsy embark on adventurous quests, continuing their exploration of rich folklore and legendary tales.

Thank you for listening to Myths and Legends. Stay tuned for more captivating stories that bridge the past with the present.