Podcast Summary: The Rest Is History, Episode 553 - "The Last Viking: Warrior of the New Rome (Part 2)"

Release Date: April 2, 2025

In the second installment of "The Last Viking: Warrior of the New Rome," hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve deeper into the tumultuous life of Harald Hardrada, exploring his transformation from a fledgling mercenary in Constantinople’s Varangian Guard to a formidable king in Norway. This episode masterfully intertwines historical facts with the legendary embellishments found in the Icelandic sagas, offering listeners a rich and engaging narrative.

Harald’s Early Campaigns and the Varangian Guard

The episode picks up from where the last one left off, with Harald Hardrada enlisting in the Varangian Guard in 1035. The hosts discuss the geopolitical climate of the Byzantine Empire, highlighting the fragmentation of the Abbasid Caliphate and the ensuing chaos in the Middle East. Harald’s initial campaigns against Arab corsairs in the Aegean Sea and later against the Bulgars in Armenia are examined, with Dominic noting the challenges the Varangians faced in siege warfare—a stark contrast to their usual raiding endeavors.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [02:26]: “Now, no sooner has he enlisted, Tom, the news reaches the imperial city that Arab corsairs have sailed into the Aegean...”

The Intersection of Sagas and Byzantine Sources

Dominic emphasizes the difficulties historians face when reconciling the fantastical elements of the Icelandic sagas with contemporary Byzantine accounts. While the sagas provide a vivid picture of Harald’s exploits, they often contain exaggerated or mythical components, such as the portrayal of Varangians as towering warriors with near-mythical prowess.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [05:30]: “Maniarches. I’m gonna read to the description by the monk and courtier Michael Psellus...”

Tom humorously critiques the sagas’ depiction of Varangians, likening them to figures from J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, which underscores the blend of history and legend.

Adventures in Constantinople: Legends and Realities

The hosts transition to Harald’s significant expedition to Jerusalem, where he participates in the rebuilding of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This mission not only holds religious significance but also has broader implications for Christian unity and the impending Crusades. Harald’s generosity, as depicted in the sagas, is contrasted with historical pragmatism, raising questions about the accuracy of these accounts.

Dominic introduces legendary tales from the sagas, including:

1. Bird Action: Harald using burning sulfur-tipped birds to set enemy rooftops ablaze—a tactic also attributed to historical figures like Saint Olga of Kyiv.

   Notable Quote:

   Dominic Sandbrook [10:34]: “Anyone could argue...”

2. Tunnel Drama: A daring escape through a tunnel during a siege, reminiscent of fantastical narratives found in "Game of Thrones."

3. The Coffin Ploy: Harald faking his death to infiltrate and devastate enemy defenses from within, a story that blends historical strategy with legendary flair.

Tom connects these saga tales to broader literary traditions, noting their similarities to other historical and fictional accounts of cunning military maneuvers.

Political Intrigue and Turmoil in Constantinople

The narrative shifts to the internal politics of Constantinople, focusing on Emperor Michael IV’s deteriorating health and the ensuing power struggle orchestrated by his eunuch, John. The episode highlights the precariousness of Harald’s position within the Varangian Guard amidst court conspiracies and shifting loyalties.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [16:08]: “They're shaking the gates of brass, making walls totter...”

As Michael IV succumbs to edema dropsy, the adoption of Michael V and the subsequent coup attempt reveal the volatile nature of Byzantine politics. Harald’s loyalty is tested as riots erupt, leading to violent confrontations and Harald’s eventual escape following brutal reprisals against Emperor Michael V.

Saga Narratives vs. Historical Evidence

Dominic candidly discusses the challenges of distinguishing between saga embellishments and historical facts. While the sagas provide a dramatic and engaging storyline, they often include mythical elements like giant snakes guarding dungeons or divine interventions that lack corroboration from Byzantine sources.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [33:34]: “...the eye gouging. There's a bit of a Flashman quality, isn't it, to Harald Hardrada's life slightly.”

The hosts debate the plausibility of these legends, ultimately acknowledging that while some events may have a basis in truth, others likely serve to mythologize Harald’s legacy.

Harald’s Return to Norway and Ascension to Power

After his tumultuous tenure in Constantinople, Harald returns to Norway around 1043, armed with wealth amassed during his campaigns. The discussion covers his strategic marriage to Elisif, daughter of Yaroslav the Wise of Kyiv, which consolidates his power and wealth. However, rivalries within Scandinavia, particularly with Magnus the Good of Norway and Svein of Denmark, present significant challenges to Harald’s ambitions.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [45:27]: “...it makes complete sense that Yaroslav would be very keen to marry him to his daughter.”

The meeting between Harald and Magnus is dramatized, illustrating the tension over the division of wealth and power. The saga’s portrayal of Harald as a shrewd but perhaps overly ambitious leader is contrasted with Magnus’s diplomatic and politically astute nature.

Final Reflections on Harald’s Legacy

The episode concludes with reflections on Harald’s reign as King of Norway. Despite his military prowess and the wealth he accumulated, Harald’s efforts to centralize and modernize Norway faced resistance from local landowners, leading to prolonged conflicts and eventual tax revolts. His legacy is painted as one of both glory and relentless ambition, setting the stage for the seismic events of 1066.

Notable Quote:

Dominic Sandbrook [59:23]: “...that is the origin of the nickname Hardrada, which at school I can remember being told it was hard ruler.”

Looking Ahead: The Climactic Year of 1066

As the episode wraps up, Dominic and Tom tease the next installment, which will cover the pivotal events of 1066—the death of Edward the Confessor, Harold Godwinson’s accession to the English throne, Harald’s invasion of England, and the monumental Battle of Hastings. The anticipation builds for a grand culmination of Harald’s saga, blending historical analysis with the legendary tales that surround his life.

Notable Quotes from the Episode

1. Harald’s Valor and Prowess:

   Tom Holland [01:44]: “It was an even better writer, yeah.”

2. Saga Enthusiasm:

   Dominic Sandbrook [10:34]: “Harold gets the Varangians to collect birds. They fix bits of burning sulfur to their feet and send them out over the town.”

3. Humorous Exchanges:

   Tom Holland [28:17]: “I hope the opportunity doesn't come about for me to hold you to that.”

4. Dramatic Scene Description:

   Dominic Sandbrook [25:08]: “The flames licked the stones, crackling embers shot from the soot, and columns of smoke rose vertically from the tumbling houses.”

5. Reflections on Harald’s Rule:

   Dominic Sandbrook [55:28]: “He is a man who, you want to know, here's a celebrity, here's a man who will have no problem raising recruits because to serve as awesome as that as well.”

Conclusion

Episode 553 of "The Rest Is History" offers a captivating exploration of Harald Hardrada’s intricate journey through medieval power struggles, legendary battles, and political maneuvers. Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland adeptly balance historical scrutiny with an appreciation for the rich tapestry of saga literature, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of one of history’s most storied Vikings. As they prepare for the climactic events of 1066, the episode leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Harald’s legendary saga.