Swords of the Anglo Saxons

Swords of the Anglo Saxons

Author: Frank Docherty August 24, 2023 Duration: 6:02

n the annals of history, the swords of the Anglo-Saxons stand as both artifacts of exquisite craftsmanship and vessels of profound symbolism. These blades, hailing from a time when metallurgy was an art form and weaponry held cultural significance, offer a gateway into the values, warfare techniques, and societal norms of the early Germanic tribes that inhabited England from the 5th to the 11th century. This exploration delves deep into the world of Anglo-Saxon swords, unearthing their typologies, construction techniques, and the roles they played in shaping the destiny of a people.


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
Podcast Episodes
The Anglo Saxon Peasant Soldier [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:32
The Peasant Soldier: More Than Just a FarmerThe average Anglo-Saxon peasant soldier was not a full time warrior but a member of the Fyrd—a militia of free men called upon in times of war. This system allowed the king or…
Anglo Saxon resistance against Norman rule [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:40
Following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, the Anglo-Saxon populace mounted several resistance efforts against William the Conqueror's rule. These uprisings were driven by widespread resentment towards the oppress…
Murder in Anglo Saxon England [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:02
In Anglo-Saxon England, murder was regarded as a serious crime, and there were various legal practices and customs in place for dealing with it. These practices evolved over the course of the Anglo-Saxon period (roughly…
Yule and Christmas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:10
Yule is a pagan celebration rooted in Northern European traditions, marking the winter solstice (around December 21–22). It celebrates the return of the sun and the renewal of life. Common customs include burning a Yule…
Anglo Saxon Leatherwork [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:32
Introduction to Anglo-Saxon Leather working Leather working was an essential craft in Anglo-Saxon England (circa 5th to 11th centuries) and played a crucial role in everyday life. The Anglo-Saxons were skilled artisans w…
The Spear [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:18
The spear has been a crucial weapon in English warfare, both for its versatility and its effectiveness in various military contexts. Its use spans from the early medieval period through the Renaissance, reflecting the ev…
The English Billhook [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:22
The billhook, often referred to simply as a "bill," is a traditional weapon that originated in medieval Europe, primarily used by infantry soldiers. It evolved from an agricultural tool used for pruning and cutting branc…
Anglo Saxon Broken Back Seax [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:07
The "Broken Back Seax" is a type of knife or dagger that was characteristic of the Anglo-Saxons, the Germanic inhabitants of England from the 5th century AD until the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name "seax" itself refer…