Study: DNA corroborates "Well-man" tale from Norse saga

A recent study has sequenced the DNA of a skeleton believed to be the "Well-man," a figure from a 12th-century Norse saga. The saga recounts an invading army from the south that threw a dead body into a well to poison the water. The remains, excavated in 1938 and further analyzed in 2014 and 2016, were identified as those of a male aged 30 to 40, with blue eyes and blond or light-brown hair, likely originating from southern Norway. This finding challenges previous assumptions that the body belonged to a member of King Sverre's army from central Norway, suggesting instead that it may have been a casualty from the invading Bagler faction. Although the researchers could not confirm if the Well-man was intentionally poisoned, they found no pathogens in the DNA, possibly due to contamination removal processes. The study highlights the genetic distinctiveness of southern Norwegian populations during the time, indicating a long-standing isolation. The research opens avenues for further exploration of ancient Norwegian DNA, potentially including remains of historical figures like Saint Olaf.

- DNA analysis of the "Well-man" skeleton supports its connection to a 12th-century Norse saga.

- The remains suggest the individual had blue eyes and blond or light-brown hair, originating from southern Norway.

- Findings challenge previous beliefs about the Well-man's association with King Sverre's army.

- No pathogens were identified in the analysis, leaving questions about intentional poisoning unanswered.

- The study indicates historical genetic isolation in southern Norway populations.