Fjölnismál

Fjölnismál is a skaldic poem found in the Icelandic sagas, most notably within the prose introduction to the Eyrbyggja saga. It is attributed to the Icelandic chieftain and poet Fjölnir. The poem recounts the events leading up to the death of King Eric of Sweden and his brother, King Ingold, at the hands of Fjölnir himself. According to the poem, Fjölnir sought to avenge a perceived insult or grievance against him by the Swedish kings.

The poem describes a ritualistic poisoning. Fjölnir is said to have prepared a drink laced with a potent substance. He then invited the two kings to a feast, presenting them with this poisoned beverage. The kings, unaware of the treachery, consumed the drink and subsequently perished. The Fjölnismál offers a glimpse into the violent political landscape and the role of poetry in commemorating and justifying such acts in Viking Age Scandinavia. While the historical accuracy of the events is debated by scholars, the poem remains a significant literary artifact of Old Norse culture, illustrating themes of vengeance, honor, and the power of a well-crafted verse.