Rachel Roden

Weaving Our Own Fates! (Part 2) - Ep 44

In part two of their fateful quest, Ash and Tilly chat more with prehistoric archaeologist and textiles specialist Ronja Lau. Together, the three discuss the different kinds of analysis possible when studying archaeological textiles, and work together to try and replicate the woven threads left by the Norns. But what kind of material should they use? Should they go for a twill, or tabby weave? And what’s Ronja’s obsession with Telekom got to do with anything?

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  • For rough transcripts of this episode, go to: https://www.archpodnet.com/trowel/44

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Weaving Our Own Fates! (Part 1) - Ep 43

In this episode, Tilly and Ash have been tasked with covering holiday leave for the Norns, the weavers of fate, life and destiny from Norse mythology. However, there’s a problem they don’t have the first clue about weaving! Luckily the know someone who does, prehistoric archaeologist and textile specialist, Ronja Lau! With Ronja’s help, will the trio be able to weave the fates of Gods and humans? And will they ever find out how Game of Thrones ended?

Books Mentioned

  • A Song of Ice and Fire - George R. R. Martin

  • Inkheart - Cornelia Funke

  • The Book of Life (All Souls Trilogy) - Deborah Harkness

  • The Magic in the Weaving - Tamora Pierce

  • Daughter of the Forest - Juliet Marillier

  • The Weaver and the Witch Queen - Genevieve Gornichec

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Post Excavations of Weathertop: Investigating the Pre- and Post-Númenórean Occupation of Amon Sûl in the Third Age - Ep 42

Following excavation at Weathertop (Amon Sûl), a range of post-excavation analyses was undertaken to better understand the site’s history and use. Archaeobotanical analysis revealed evidence of plant remains, shedding light on past diets and the environment surrounding the tower. Illustrations of key artefacts and features were produced to aid in visual interpretation and documentation. Find processing involved the cleaning, cataloguing, and detailed recording of artefacts, including pottery, tools, and weapons. Additionally, flotation techniques were employed to recover small organic remains, such as seeds and charcoal, offering further insight into the site’s past occupation and use.

TLDR: Tilly and Ash discuss the post-excavation analysis of their six week dig on Weathertop!

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Excavations of Weathertop: Investigating the Pre- and Post-Númenórean Occupation of Amon Sûl in the Third Age - Ep 41

Excavations at Weathertop (Amon Sûl) have uncovered significant evidence of its role as a Númenórean watchtower and the later decline of Arnor. Artefacts including weapons, pottery, and tools reflect the site’s military importance before its destruction by Angmar’s forces. Remains of battle and burnt structures provide insight into the final assault on the tower, while later finds suggest sporadic use by travellers and the Dúnedain. This report examines the site’s stratigraphy and the material culture uncovered, offering a glimpse into the history and symbolic decline of Weathertop as part of Middle-earth’s broader narrative.

TLDR: Tilly and Ash excavate the fantastical site of Weathertop as found in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.

Links/Bibliography

  • Bintliff, J., ed., 2012. Archaeology: Theories, Methods, and Practice. 5th ed. London: Thames & Hudson. Available at: https://archive.org/details/ArchaeologyTheoriesMethodsAndPracticeTheoriesMethodsAndPractice [Accessed 24 March 2025].

  • Tolkien, J.R.R., 1954. The Fellowship of the Ring. London: George Allen & Unwin. Chapter 10 ("A Knife in the Dark").

  • Tolkien, J.R.R., 2001. The Lord of the Rings: Appendices. In: The Return of the King. London: HarperCollins.

  • LOTRO Wiki, 2025. Weathertop. Available at: https://lotro-wiki.com/wiki/Weathertop [Accessed 24 March 2025].

  • Tolkien, C., 1996. The History of Middle-earth, Vol. 10: The Peoples of Middle-earth. London: HarperCollins. Appendix A (The Tale of Years).

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Rhoda and the Rooster of Pazyryk (Part 2) - Ep 40

In part two, Tilly and Ash continue their mission with Rhoda, artefact conservator and tattoo artist, to help the Hamunaptra Revitalisation Society bring back personhood into their reanimated - and potentially tattooed - mummies! In this episode, the team looks at the tools and techniques for uncovering ancient tattoos and asks why would someone tattoo a rooster on their thumb?

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