Through new discoveries in science and archaeology, this episode explores the origins of the Vikings and how a great Viking dynasty changed history. It investigates who the Vikings were and why they left Scandinavia to plunder far-off lands. New scientific research suggests they were driven by an unstoppable force: climate change. In Norway, experts build replica Viking ships and explain the sailing technology that enabled long distance voyages. The Vikings continued raiding for decades. But eventually they began to establish more permanent settlements in Britain and Ireland, and in 2020 archaeologists discovered Dublin’s massive Viking harbour. A mighty king named Ivarr controlled this port, and he and his descendants built an empire in Britain and Ireland.

Episode Two charts the ongoing fortunes of the dynasty of Ivarr. In the 10th century, they constructed the Viking town of Dublin, now brought back to life through a stunning and vivid combination of VFX and drama re-enactment. Thanks to extensive archaeology, we know more about Viking Dublin than any other northwest European city at this time, including London and Paris. Slaves were one of the mainstays of the Viking economy, and now DNA science reveals that many captives ended their days far from their homeland. The episode also explores the events of 937, when Dublin’s Viking king joined forces with the kings of Scotland and Strathclyde and invaded England. The subsequent battle would decide the fate of Britain for centuries to come. Experts also reveal how the Vikings helped establish modern society in Ireland and across Europe today.