If ever there was a woman you did NOT want to mess with during the Medieval Ages, it was Olga of Kiev.

Venerated as a saint within the Russian Orthodox Church and recalled as a vengeful and deadly Viking Princess by ancient Russian and Slavic chroniclers, the story of Olga has perplexed historians for over 1000 years. Was she a sinner or a saint? A clever strategist amidst the chessboard of Kievan Rus politics or a blood thirsty heathen without scruples, hellbent on avenging her brutally murdered husband?

Hint: she was both. Olga of Kiev was not the sort of woman to be underestimated. And for the love of whatever gods you hold dear, do NOT ask for her hand in marriage. Or you’re going to have a bad time.

**No sparrows or pigeons were harmed in the recording of this podcast.**