Between Two Ravens: A Norse Mythology Podcast

David Alexander and Shawn Gaich

A podcast about the psychological significance of Norse Mythology. Shawn is an amateur Norse Mythology Expert. David is not a Jungian Analyst but he reads a lot of books about Carl Jung's theories on the collective unconscious and individuation.

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Our Editor's Take

Between Two Ravens: A Norse Mythology Podcast explores ideas of psychology and philosophy. Its hosts are Shawn Gaich and David Alexander, both passionate about Norse mythology. They started creating the podcast for friends, only to find a community of fans who wanted to listen.

Norse mythology refers to myths and folklore belonging to the North Germanic people. Their stories talk of deities and heroes with themes of love, betrayal, and death. Listeners may be most familiar with the gods Thor, Loki, and Odin. Their tales feature in TV and film adaptations. Each podcast episode discusses a different tale from the mythology archives. Shawn hosts a solo episode focused on the House of Yngling and the first King of Norway, Harald Fairhair. Shawn draws from the work of Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson for his research.

Harald began ruling the kingdom at age 10 after his father's death, Halvdan the Black. His uncle became one of his most trusted advisors, as many of his father's advisors abandoned their posts following his death. Obeying a 10-year-old boy was no easy task! On the podcast, Shawn relays Harald's rise to power and how he chose to rule over the kingdom. Many people died due to his decisions as king.

Other stories include the courtship of Freyr, who sent his servant to propose on his behalf. There are tales of Loki, the Walls of Asgard, and the birth of Sleipnir. Listeners also hear about dragon slayers, battles, and journeys to the underworld. As well as regular podcast episodes, there are interviews with experts for extra exploration.

Between Two Ravens: A Norse Mythology Podcast retells magical stories from Norse mythology. Shawn and David use historical texts and new translations of ancient folk tales. Each episode reveals a new story of revenge, war, and friendship.

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Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

S5E6 Volsung Poems: Sinfjotli and Helgi (Solo Short Part 2 of 4)
Yesterday
S5E6 Volsung Poems: Sinfjotli and Helgi (Solo Short Part 2 of 4)
S5E6 Volsung Poems: Sinfjotli and Helgi (Solo Short Part 2 of 4)David continues his series of shorts, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.Sinfjotli and Helgi were the older half brothers of Sigurd the dragon slayer. They were Sigmund's first sons and set the stage for the fate which led Sigurd to become a hero.Helgi has three poems, The first Poem of Helgi Hundingsbani, The Poem of Helgi Hiorvardsson, and A second Poem of Helgi Hundingsbani.The Helgi poems feature different takes on the same story. The hero Helgi meeting his valkyrie lover on the battlefield and going to war with her suitor to gain her hand in marriage.Helgi's poem also features a flyting dis-battle between Sinfiotli and the leader of the opposing army.The Death of Sinfjotli is the final poem and shows the pattern we see repeated in the life of Sigurd. Dark agreements and insecurities trying to poison the hero and turn father against son or the hero against himself.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S5E5: Kent, the First Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of England
Apr 8 2024
S5E5: Kent, the First Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of England
In this episode, Shawn discusses the kingdom of Kent, the first of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England post-Roman Britain as told by Bede's "Ecclesiastical History of the English People" and the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle". Shawn delves into the legendary figures of Kent's inception, focusing on the brothers Hengest and Horsa, whose lineage traces back to the All-Father, Odin. He discusses King Aethelberht of Kent, the pioneering Anglo-Saxon monarch to embrace Christianity, setting a precedent for future rulers. The discussion extends to King Ecbert of Wessex, whose familial ties to Kent through his father, King Ealmund, raise intriguing questions about the kingdom's sovereignty. Despite their direct descent from Cerdic of Wessex, Ecbert's actions indicate a desire to assert Wessex's dominance over Kent, leading to its subjugation under Wessex's rule.Errors:Shawn misstated the beginning of Ida of Northumbria's reign as 457 CE, intending to reference the year 547 CE.Shawn's wording regarding Penda of Mercia's conversion implied he was the last to convert, whereas he remained a staunch pagan until his death. The correction clarifies that he was the last pagan Anglo-Saxon king, with Mercia converting after his reign.In reference to the West-Saxon king, Shawn inadvertently used "Cadwalla" instead of "Ceadwal".Shawn apologizes for any confusion arising from discussing two separate individuals named Ecbert without clearly distinguishing between them.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S5E4: "When the Wolf Comes" - Interview w/Ian Sharpe, the Creator of the Vikingverse
Mar 25 2024
S5E4: "When the Wolf Comes" - Interview w/Ian Sharpe, the Creator of the Vikingverse
In this episode, Shawn and David delve deep into the immersive world of the Vikingverse with its creator and our special guest, Ian Sharpe. In this discussion, we uncover the alternate history where the norse religion and culture thrives, not succumbing to the influence of Christianity in the Dark Ages. Ian shares insights into his creation, spanning two books, a comic book series, and most recently, a role playing game called "When the Wolf Comes".Check out the Vikingverse --> https://vikingverse.com/Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S5E3: Volsung Poems: Ottar/Otter (Solo Short Part 1)
Mar 11 2024
S5E3: Volsung Poems: Ottar/Otter (Solo Short Part 1)
S5E3 Volsung Poems: Ottar/Otter (Solo Short Part 1)David isn't quite ready to put the Saga of the Volsungs to rest. This is the first of a series of shorts on the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs. As Shawn and I found in Season 4, Saga of the Volsungs has a few inconsistent parts, where the author appears to have tried to reconcile multiple sources into a coherent story. So David is back to interpret the original sources to see what meaning can be found in the original poems.Part 1 looks at Otter/Ottar. Two different figures with a similar name, who both are involved in a battle between brothers over inheritance and have the ability to shape shift.The Otter of Saga of the Volsungs was the 3rd brother of Regin and Fafnir. His death at the hands of Loki led to Fafnir obtaining the cursed gold and Regin, the foster-father of Sigurd, to set Sigurd on the path to destroying the Dragon Fafnir. Lay of Hyndla features an Ottar who is a follower of Freya. This Poem is another attempt to condense ideas and themes found throughout the Poetic Edda.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S5E2: The Sun and the Moon (and Night and Day)
Mar 4 2024
S5E2: The Sun and the Moon (and Night and Day)
For our 100th episode (shit!!), Shawn discusses the origin of the sun and the moon, along with the origins of night and day in Norse Mythology, as told by Gylfaginning in Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda. (Also with some stanzas from the Poetic Edda poems, Völuspá and Vafþrúðnismál.In it Shawn also explores the idea of looking to the divine when humans cannot currently explain something, and compares humans of 10,000 looking with a sense of wonder when looking at the sun and the moon, with humans today asking ourselves what happened before the universe started expanding, and what happens after we die.Also somewhat of an error --> Shawn expresses some confusion on the different wolves chasing the sun and the moon. From my understanding (which isn't smoothly discussed in this episode) is that Fenrir may be the same wolf as Skoll, and Garm may be the same wolf as Hati.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S5E1 Volsung Recap and Ragnar Episode 0?
Feb 20 2024
S5E1 Volsung Recap and Ragnar Episode 0?
In this episode, Shawn and David finally put the Volsung series behind them with and episode on,,,, the Volsungs. A recap of the series where we discuss the overall themes of the tragedy, and where we discuss what may seem to be the evilness of women, which seems to REALLY be the easy manipulation of men (gods we are stupid sometimes).... They also give a recap of the main players of the series.Also, Odin seems to play a part in the death of many of his descedents. The pair discuss his involvement while also discussing whether or not he has an endgame in mind or if the endgame is just a game in the mind of a god. Does Gudrun turn into her mother?Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E22 Volsung Saga XIV: Gudrun's Revenge and 3rd Marriage
Jan 8 2024
S4E22 Volsung Saga XIV: Gudrun's Revenge and 3rd Marriage
Shawn and David finally wrap up the "The Saga of the Volsungs". Where Gudrun, fresh off of losing her 2 brothers, plots revenge on her husband Atli. After she takes care of him (and ugh her 2 sons with him), she then finds herself married for a 3rd time to a King Jonakr.Svanhild, daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun, also plays a part and does her fucked up duty as a princess in the dark ages and becomes bethrothed to a king way above her age. This leads to many more problems for the family. Including the deaths of 2 OTHER sons of Gudrun, and a step son,,,,,Also Shawn forgets the actor "Kevin Costner" at one point. LolWays to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E21 Volsung Saga XIII: Atli the Cruel, Brother of Brynhild
Dec 29 2023
S4E21 Volsung Saga XIII: Atli the Cruel, Brother of Brynhild
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the aftermath of Sigurd's death, and the life of Gudrun as a recent widow. Though she has a goodbye moment with the corpse of her husband, she then travels the world to start fresh and finds herself at a kingdom in Denmark where she befriends a Princess Thora there. After 3.5 years, she slowly regains some happiness and everything is turning up for Gudrun.That is until Grimhild her witch of a mother finds her location and pulls her back into the arms of this disfunctional family. Grimhild gives her a spell to forget the trespasses of her family, and marries her off to King Atli, the brother of her now dead rival, Brynhild the Valkyrie.This marriage was fated to happen, as Brynhild herself told Gudrun previously that this marriage would end with her killing her 2nd husband,,,You do seem to get somewhat of a redemption arc for Gunnar and Hogni; however, how much of them getting past their previous betrayal was nothing more than them accepting their own deaths, deaths which they may have welcomed as they weren't able to live with themselves for that betrayal?Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E20 Volsung XII: The Deaths of Sigurd and Brynhild
Dec 21 2023
S4E20 Volsung XII: The Deaths of Sigurd and Brynhild
David and Shawn discuss chapters 30 and 31 of the Saga, which features in back to back chapters the deaths of 2 major characters, in this case Sigurd the Dragon Slayer of the House of Volsung, and Brynhild the Valkyrie. Brynhild at this point is still depressed over her inability to affect her fate in life, specifically with her inability to be with Sigurd. As she has found out that Sigurd himself played a part in her downfall, she gives her husband Gunnar (and Sigurd's Blood-Brother) an ultimatum. One choice, he can perhaps finally appease his wife, OR, he can betray his oath to Sigurd in front of gods and men.As we will learn, and if you haven't noticed, this story never was fated to have a happy ending for the family.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E19 Volsung XI: Brynhild's Depression
Dec 14 2023
S4E19 Volsung XI: Brynhild's Depression
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 28 & 29 of the Saga of the Volsungs. Gudrun taunts Brynhild on having won the better man (Sigurd) while also trying to convince Brynhild that her true love, Sigurd, isn't that great and Brynhild's husband, Gudrun's brother, is actually quite a catch.Brynhild's anger and resentment grow until she becomes defeated and depressed. When her husband is not able to cheer her up she ends up trying to kill him, so they send in Sigurd who unsuccessfully tries to convince her that her life is not all that bad. She ends up cursing them all and praying for their deaths.It sounds like a bad soap opera, but what psychological insights can be gained from the archetypes of witches, curses, and dark agreements? It is all about the shadow of love and the hazards of betraying your self. Where did Sigurd go wrong? And how did the witch play on his insecurities?Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Buy Shawn a Beer or Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/tworavenpodcastFollow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E18 Volsung X: Brynhild v Gudrun - A Dark Age Love Triangle
Dec 11 2023
S4E18 Volsung X: Brynhild v Gudrun - A Dark Age Love Triangle
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 25-27 of the Saga, which sees a budding friendship between Sigurd and the sons of King Gjuki, Gunnar and Hogni. Those brothers also have a sister, Princess Gudrun. The very woman Brynhild told Sigurd he would be fated to marry as oppose to her. King Gjuki also has a wife who happens to be a witch, Queen Grimhild. The Queen sees that Sigurd has a fondness for Brynhild the Valkyrie, so she hatches a plan to orchestrate the foretold marriage with her daughter,,,, while also casting a spell on Sigurd to forget Brynhild. Also, she sees the benefits of having her son Prince Gunnar marry Brynhild the Valkyrie.However, to make this work Sigurd needs to step in, putting him in a weird place where he sleeps with the very woman he used to love but forgot. Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
S4E17 The Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - Twilight of the Gods (4 of 4)
Nov 30 2023
S4E17 The Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - Twilight of the Gods (4 of 4)
David presents part 4 of 4 short episodes on the Ring of Power. A Jungian interpretation of Wagner's 4 part Opera inspired by the high German version of Saga of the Volsungs (Nibelungenlied - Song of the Nibelung).This episode has been a long one in the making and it is a long short. It begins with a summary of the final portion of Siegfried's journey, which parallel's Sigurd's journey at the end of Saga of the Volsungs.David includes his interpretations on the archetypes in the story and the underlying meaning of betrayals, curses, and love potions.Jean Shinoda Bolen gave a family system interpretation of Brunhilde's betrayal of the all father, and subsequent betrayal by the hero, as a perspective on patriarchy and the need for love, rather than a drive for power. My interpretation is similar, but rather focused on the archetypes of insecure, immature masculinity that drive the tragic story of Siegfried, and what mature masculinity, that includes the Lover and Warrior archetype could mean.My interpretation particularly focuses on the role of Acceptance, a form of love, as a necessary component to overcome the curse and poison of resentment. In the end, fate happens as it does, and the death of the gods and downfall of the hero is a necessary step for rebirth, growth, true transformation, and individuation.Acknowledgement to Jean Shinoda Bolen's book 'Ring of Power' as the inspiration for this 4 part series.Don Miguel Ruiz's story "The Man Who Didn't Believe In Love" inspired part of my interpretation. It is from his book "The Mastery of Love."Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing:Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
Volsung IX: Brynhild the Valkyrie
Nov 27 2023
Volsung IX: Brynhild the Valkyrie
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 20-24 of the Volsung Saga, where Sigurd has 2 completely different meetings with the Valkyrie, Brynhild. There is also a chapter dedicated solely to how beautiful Sigurd himself is. Shawn says the word, "inconsistency" 40,384 times.Also, the pair discuss Brynhild's words to Sigurd and how she may actually be warning him of his lust for her as opposed to her accepting his advances. Apologies at the beginning of the episode David is still waking up and says Shawn McGrath-Muniz rather than Patrick McGrath-Muniz.Podcast Psyche (Formerly ‘Therapy for Guys’) with Quique Autrey and there are several episodes on Archetypes in Tarot, which has an indirect link to Archetypes in Nordic Runes as a system of divination.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/psyche/id1621354883The Emperor and Phallic symbolism.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/patrick-mcgrath-mu%C3%B1iz-the-emperor/id1621354883?i=1000597054940The Foolhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fool-an-archetype-for-the-modern-man/id1621354883?i=1000559145424Patrick’s current gallery show in Santa Fe, NM runs through the end of the year.https://evokecontemporary.com/special-promo/Patrick-mcgrath-Muniz-SP.htmlWays to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
Volsung VII: Sigurd the Dragon Slayer
Nov 13 2023
Volsung VII: Sigurd the Dragon Slayer
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the rise of Sigurd of the House of Volsung in chapter 17 and 18 of the saga. Firstly, with him raising an army to battle the rival family of the Volsungs (the sons of Hunding) and his father's killer, King Lyngvy. We then discuss the very anti-climatic "fight" between Sigurd and Fafnir, along with the much cooler conversation between the two after Sigurd mortally wounds the dragon.Fafnir has some advice of his own for Sigurd on his brother Regin's true character. The pair also discuss the idea of wealth and one's purpose in life. What made Fafnir inherit an ungodly amount of riches only to decide to live with it in his seclusive lair. Why didn't he decide to like buy a soccer team or a social media website or something?Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
Volsung VI: Sigurd and Regin
Nov 6 2023
Volsung VI: Sigurd and Regin
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the son of Sigmund and Hjordis, Sigurd (The main character of the entire saga). Though Sigmund died before his son was born, Sigurd was raised with many father figures, The Kings Alf and Hjordis, our friend (and Sigurd's great-great-great grandfather) Odin, and his foster-father, a figure named Regin.Regin sees the potential of Sigurd, and sees the potential to use him to satisfy an old family fued of his with his brother Fafnir, who happens to now be a dragon who took his entire inheritance.Shawn also talks a bit about his own life and him grappling with his own mortality, and ties it in to how unlike Odin, Sigurd may be better equiped to understand his own fate as a mortal, and not a god.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
Volsung IV: Helgi Hundingsbane
Oct 23 2023
Volsung IV: Helgi Hundingsbane
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss another son of Sigmund of the House Volsung, Helgi Hundingsbane. As Helgi only features in 1 chapter of "The Saga of the Volsungs" (chapter 9), he isn't considered a major character. However, in the Poetic Edda, two poems feature different versions of his life and provide more context on his life.In reviewing chapter 9 of the sage and the poems "Helgakvitha Hundinsbana I/II", his main life events are the killing of a King Hunding (hence his name), then fighting a war that he eventually wins to marry Sigrún, who is a Princess and a Valkyrie. Helgi succeeds. Though as we see, the norns and Odin may have their own thoughts on his fate....Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement
Volsung III: Sinfjotli, His Life and Death
Oct 16 2023
Volsung III: Sinfjotli, His Life and Death
In this episode, Shawn and David are back after a bit of a hiatus due to busy real world demands. Shawn gives updates on his life and recent adventures.Shawn outlines Chapters 7, 8, and 10 of Volsung Saga, connecting the story of Sigmund and his son Sinfjotli. Chapter 9 on Sigmund’s son Helgi and the associated Eddic Poems will feature in the next episode Volsung IV. David and Shawn make connections back to the previous short episodes on the sagas of historical kings and David’s narrative on Richard Wagner’s Song of the Neibelung as a condensed version of the similar story of Wotan/Odin and Sigfried/Sigurd. Sinfjotli is the tragic son of Sigmund who is born of a curse and dies by a curse. All of these are the steps which go into the making of a true hero.Other Notes:David’s addendum to the episode: At 39 minutes when I get sidetracked from a thought about what Sigmund and Sinfjotli in wolf skins represents. It is the archetype of Sigmund as the Wild Man, which is the proper foster father to teach a hero to get in touch with his true nature (animal nature, earthy side; see Robert Bly’s book Iron John). This Archetype is further confirmed in the way Sinfjotli’s younger brothers get killed, it involves them playing with gold coins, leading them to encounter Sigmund (a golden ball tempts the boy to follow the Wild Man in Iron John). Podcast mentioned during the episode: Psyche Podcast guest Peter Rollins talking about many interesting points, including the importance of why we need desire, and need suffering and struggle to find meaning and purpose in life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_lOTUSC8LsWays to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spread our podcast to a wider audience: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/between-two-ravens-a-norse-mythology-podcast/id1604263830Follow us or leave a message on Instagram:Instagram: (@BetweenTwoRavens): https://www.instagram.com/betweentworavens/Check out David’s writing: Prosoche Project (www.prosocheproject.com).Walled Garden (https://thewalledgarden.com/davidalexander)Our podcast is part of The Walled Garden Podcast Network. The Walled Garden is committed to the pursuit of Truth, Wisdom, Virtue, and the Divine, wherever it might be found. Visit thewalledgarden.com to learn more. This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5910787/advertisement