Berserkers: The most terrifying Viking warriors | Lars Brownworth and Lex Fridman

The discussion begins with an examination of Odin as a Norse deity, whom Brownworth finds particularly disturbing because he represents both madness and poetry. The conversation then shifts to berserkers, described as Odin's chosen warriors and the most famous type of Viking fighters. These warriors were known for their extreme battle behavior - showing no pain, attacking enemies with nails and teeth, and continuing to fight even when severely wounded, including having limbs severed. Brownworth explains that berserkers would attack anyone, including other Vikings, when in their frenzied state, and that this is the origin of the modern word 'berserk.' When asked about the psychological mindset driving this behavior, Brownworth clarifies that it wasn't primarily religious motivation but rather a cultural way of life centered on prizing honor and intensity in battle. He concludes by mentioning one of Odin's epithets - 'the raven feeder' - explaining that by creating corpses on the battlefield for ravens to consume, warriors were fulfilling Odin's work.