Gone Medieval The Origins of Greenland
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Jan 16, 2026 Eleanor Barrowclough, a Norse literature expert, and Robert Ricks, a historian focused on Norse settlements, delve into the fascinating origins of Greenland. They explore Leif Erikson's legacy through the Vinland sagas and Eric the Red’s journey to name the land. The discussion uncovers the settlers’ harsh realities, their farming lifestyles, and trade practices. Robert also examines the eerie disappearance of these Norse settlers, linking it to climate change and market shifts, while contrasting myths about their culture's persistence.
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Erik The Red's Westward Exile
- Erik the Red was exiled from Norway and Iceland and chose to sail west to Greenland where he established farms.
- He settled at Brattahlíð and raised his family there, including Leif Erikson, who grew up in that community.
Walrus Ivory Drove Greenland's Economy
- Greenland's settlers were mainly farmers and walrus hunters who exploited ivory for European markets.
- Walrus ivory became a high-value export that shaped Greenland's medieval economy and connections.
East/West Names Caused Lasting Confusion
- Norse Greenland settlements lay on the southwest west coast in two clusters called the Eastern and Western settlements.
- The 'Eastern' name misled later generations into thinking a settlement existed on the ice-choked east coast.