THE SORCERER Gunnhild

Long ago, in the far north of Lapland, a young woman learned the secrets of sorcery from two warlocks. At least that’s what the Icelandic sagas say. The woman would become Gunnhild, infamous Viking sorcerer whose dark magic served her lifelong pursuit of vengeance and power. Viking burials have been found that contain all the trappings of magic, so we know that the Vikings believed her immense power was real. But Gunnhild never got her own saga: she only appears in supporting roles, in sagas about men. What can we extract from the sagas about Gunnhild’s life, and was she really evil?

Katie is on location at the Jorvik Viking Center in York, England, with guest Dr. Chris Tuckley.

Want more Vikings? Visit the Jorvik Viking Festival in February 2020! More information here.

Black and white etching of Gunnhild standing near a wooden table where men dressed in 10th century clothing sit talking with a pile of weapons in the corner — Gunnhild and her sons
illustration by Krohg
public domain

Black and white etching of Gunnhild, sitting dejected in a high wooden chair, wearing a hooded cloak that covers her face and a long gown as a man in a shift and hose stands in front of her gazing at her. — Gunnhild learns that Erik is dead
illustration by Krohg
public domain

A sign on a brick building reads King's Court. — King’s Court in York, where Gunnhild and Erik Bloodaxe’s court was likely located
photo by Chris Tuckley

Mannequins show the lives of the 10th century Viking residents of Jorvik — Other residents of the reconstructed city of Jorvik include this family playing hnefatafl, a Viking board game
photo courtesy of York Archaeological Trust

Visitors ride a gondola-style ride past mannequins representing Viking residents of 10th century Jorvik — Visitors enjoying the famous JORVIK ride, which takes you through the 10th century city on a time capsule
photo courtesy of York Archaeological Trust

Chris Tuckley received his PhD at the Institute for Medieval Studies, University of Leeds, in 2009. He has worked for York Archaeological Trust since 2004, and is currently YAT’s Head of Interpretation and Engagement, based at the JORVIK Viking Centre.

Music featured in this episode included

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