Hengest

Hengest is a legendary figure in early English history and mythology, often associated with the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain. He is primarily known through later historical and literary sources, such as the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle and Geoffrey of Monmouth's *Historia Regum Britanniae*.

According to these accounts, Hengest was a Jutish warrior who, along with his brother Horsa, was invited to Britain by the Romano-British king Vortigern. Vortigern sought their aid in defending his kingdom against the Picts and other invaders. Hengest and Horsa arrived with their warbands in the mid-5th century.

After successfully repelling the attackers, Hengest and his followers are said to have demanded more land as payment. This led to conflict with the Britons, and a period of warfare ensued. Hengest and Horsa are often depicted as pivotal figures in the establishment of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms in Britain. Horsa is traditionally said to have died in battle, while Hengest continued to lead the invaders.

The historicity of Hengest is debated among scholars. While some see him as a genuine historical figure, others view him as a legendary or semi-legendary hero whose story evolved over time to explain the Anglo-Saxon presence in Britain. The name Hengest itself means "stallion" in Old English, and he is sometimes paired with his brother Horsa, whose name means "horse," suggesting a possible totemistic or symbolic origin for their characters. The precise details of his life and actions remain a subject of scholarly inquiry, blending historical possibility with mythical narrative.