Season 6, Episode 3. In this series, we're exploring what life was like for women in the Viking (Norse) Age. In this episode, we're going to find out more about what the Vikings looked for in their ladies: what traits did the ideal Norse woman possess, according to the Sagas? We'll also explore courtship and marriage: Norse runic love notes, fathers as marriage brokers, and some amorous adventures (with a side of contraception). Bonus: we'll meet some of the Saga's most impressive queens, from the impressive Åsa Haraldsdottir to the drama queen Olga of Kiev.

Our experts for this series are Eleanor Barraclough, a broadcaster and author whose latest book studies the physical remains the Vikings left us, and Nancy Marie Brown, who has been writing about Vikings, and particularly warrior women, for decades. The music in this episode comes courtesy of Solas Composer and Kevin Macleod.

Ways to support The Exploress:

• Become a patron and enjoy exclusive bonus episodes, including the full episodes with both our Viking experts and some extra tales from the Norse sagas.
• Grab a book by one of our guests, or read the current Exploress Book Club pick, at the Exploress Bookshop
• Buy some merch and art available at the Exploress shop
• Check out Kate's novel, NIGHTBIRDS and its sequel FYREBIRDS