Bonus Episode: The Little People

Bonus Episode: The Little People

Author: Frank Docherty July 9, 2025 Duration: 8:32

A Bonus Episode: This episode tells an original story about a brave girl and the mythical little People of the forests.

In Anglo-Saxon England, the "little people" referred to supernatural beings like elves and dwarves, who were believed to inhabit the world alongside humans. These beings were not seen as inherently good or evil, but rather as forces to be respected and, sometimes, feared. 

Elves Anglo-Saxons believed in elves, known as "ælfe" in Old English, who were associated with both helpful and harmful actions. They were believed to be capable of causing illness (elf shot) and were also connected to names like Ælfred (Alfred), suggesting they could also bring good fortune. 

Dwarves Dwarves, or "dweorgas" in Old English, were believed to live in mountains and barrows (burial mounds). They were often depicted as skilled smiths who might assist humans if approached with respect and offerings. Other Beings Anglo-Saxon beliefs also included other supernatural beings, but elves and dwarves were the most prominent "little people" in their worldview. 

These beings were not simply figures of myth; they were part of the Anglo-Saxon understanding of the world and influenced their daily lives through rituals and charms designed to appease or ward them off. 


Frank Docherty hosts The Wanderer, a podcast that moves through the deep forests and mead halls of early medieval England. This isn't a dry recitation of dates, but an exploration of how people thought, believed, and told stories. You’ll hear discussions on the foundational myths and local spirits that populated the Anglo-Saxon world, understanding how folklore was woven into daily life. The conversation naturally extends to the complex religious landscape, from the old gods to the coming of Christianity, and how these forces collided and merged. History provides the anchor, examining the society and events that formed the backdrop for everything else. Listening to this podcast feels like uncovering layers of a rich tapestry, where a heroic poem, a pagan ritual, and a historical king might all be connected. Each episode aims to make the distant past feel tangible and relevant, exploring the wisdom and the weirdness of a foundational era. The goal is to provide a thoughtful, nuanced perspective that goes beyond the stereotypes, all while appreciating the haunting beauty of the language and ideas left behind. It’s for anyone curious about the roots of stories and the echoes of a world that still subtly shapes our own.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Wanderer Anglo Saxon History, mythology, Folklore and religion
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