Episode 552 – The Last Viking: The Saga of Harald Hardrada (Part 1)

The Rest Is History, hosted by Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, embarks on an enthralling exploration of one of medieval history’s most captivating figures: Harald Hardrada. Drawing from Dominic Sandbrook’s insightful book, Adventures in Fury of the Vikings, this episode delves deep into Harald’s tumultuous life, highlighting his battles, exiles, and ultimate quest for power.

Introduction to Harald Hardrada

The episode opens with a dramatic recounting of a pivotal battle scene from Dominic’s book, setting the stage for the saga of Harald Hardrada:

[02:44] Dominic Sandbrook: "Harald could see the terrifying figure of Thorir the Hound, his teeth bared with savage laughter, his black spear dripping with blood, cutting through the crowd towards his brother."

This vivid portrayal immediately immerses listeners into the fierce and chaotic world Harald inhabited, emphasizing the brutal realities of 11th-century warfare in Norway.

Early Life and Family Dynamics

Harald Hardrada was born around 1015 in the rugged uplands of Norway to Sigurd Seer, a "petty king" renowned not for laziness, as his nickname "the Sow" might misleadingly suggest, but for his meticulous stewardship:

[09:19] Dominic Sandbrook: "He was a careful householder who kept his people closely to their work and often went about himself to inspect his crops and meadows, the cattle and the smithies."

Harald’s upbringing was heavily influenced by his half-brother, Olaf the Stout, a formidable warrior and unified force in Norway. Olaf’s marriage to Orster and his subsequent rule laid the groundwork for Harald’s aspirations.

The Battle of Stikla Stad (1030)

At the tender age of 15, Harald finds himself thrust into one of Norway’s most celebrated battles—the Battle of Stikla Stad. Dominic narrates the intensity of the confrontation:

[02:44] Dominic Sandbrook: "Olaf and Harold crashed into the enemy line like a storm ripping into a forest. Men were falling on every side, shards and splinters and splatters of blood flying into their faces."

Despite being outnumbered four to one, Harald showcases his emerging prowess as a leader and warrior. The battle's climax features the dramatic death of Olaf at the hands of Thorir the Hound, a sorcerer-warrior clad in Sami reindeer skins:

[29:44] Dominic Sandbrook: "Thorir the Hound... plunged it up through Olaf's mail shirt into his chest."

Harald survives the battle, wounded but alive, thanks to Roggenvald Bruccesson, who drags him to safety, setting Harald on a path of exile and redemption.

Harald’s Escape and Exile

Following the catastrophic defeat, Harald adopts the alias "Strider" or "Northbright" to evade Thorir’s vengeful forces. Dominic paints a picture of Harald’s resilience and strategic mind:

[31:04] Dominic Sandbrook: "Harald's wounds heal, and with the help of Roggenvald, he and his companion make their way through the wild forests, embodying the quintessential Viking ranger."

This period of exile is crucial for Harald’s development, providing him with the experience and connections that will later prove essential in his quest to reclaim Norway.

Journey to Kyivan Rus

Harald’s journey leads him to Kyivan Rus, a melting pot of Norse, Byzantine, and Slavic cultures. Dominic emphasizes the interconnectedness of 11th-century Europe:

[06:44] Dominic Sandbrook: "It is a brilliant reminder of the interconnectedness of this world... linking the fjords of Norway to the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, the Middle East."

In Kyiv, Harald aligns himself with Grand Prince Yaroslav, gaining valuable military experience and forging alliances that will bolster his future ambitions. Tom Holland adds depth to Harald’s integration into Kyivan Rus:

[42:40] Tom Holland: "Kyiv was, at the time, probably the biggest and most awe-inspiring place you'd ever seen. Maybe 50,000 people lived there, far surpassing London in size and grandeur."

Joining the Varangian Guard

The culmination of Harald’s time in Kyivan Rus is his induction into the elite Varangian Guard, an esteemed unit serving the Byzantine Emperor. Adopting the name Nordbricht Northbright, Harald blends into this formidable force:

[56:03] Dominic Sandbrook: "The Varangian Guard... known as the oath keepers, are a special forces unit, blending Viking ferocity with Byzantine strategy."

This alliance not only provides Harald with wealth and advanced military training but also deepens his connections across Europe, setting the stage for his return to Norway.

Notable Quotes and Insights

• Harald’s Determination:

  [25:39] Dominic Sandbrook: "I swear that I will not flee from this fight. I will triumph or I will die."

• On Harald’s Noble Lineage:

  [09:19] Dominic Sandbrook: "Harald was a handsome man of noble appearance, his hair and beard yellow... he was stern and severe to his enemies and cruelly punished all oppositional misdeeds."

• Interconnected Medieval Europe:

  [06:44] Dominic Sandbrook: "It is a brilliant reminder of the interconnectedness of this world..."

These quotes encapsulate Harald’s formidable character, his unwavering resolve, and the expansive, interconnected world that shaped his destiny.

Conclusion and Cliffhanger

As the episode draws to a close, Harald’s integration into the Varangian Guard signifies the beginning of the next chapter in his saga. The hosts tease future developments:

[60:25] Tom Holland: "So, Harold, it makes complete sense that he will do this... but will he ever make it back to avenge his brother and reclaim his throne? We’ll find out next time."

Listeners are left eagerly anticipating Part 2, which promises to delve deeper into Harald’s exploits within the Byzantine Empire and his eventual return to Norway.

Summary

Episode 552 of The Rest Is History offers a riveting introduction to Harald Hardrada, blending historical facts with the rich narrative flair of Viking sagas. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook illuminate Harald’s early life, his defining battles, and his strategic alliances across Europe. This episode not only underscores Harald’s significance in medieval history but also sets the stage for an epic continuation of his legendary journey.