Jörmunrekr

Jörmunrekr is a character from Norse mythology, primarily known for his tragic tale and his kingdom. He is most famously associated with the epic saga of his death and the subsequent revenge exacted by his sons.

In the sagas, Jörmunrekr is depicted as a powerful and ruthless king of the Goths. His reign is characterized by his vast wealth and his cruel nature. He is said to have had many wives and concubines, but his most significant relationships are with his sons, particularly those who seek vengeance.

The central event in Jörmunrekr's story is his ill-treatment and death of his daughter, Svanhild. Svanhild was married to Jörmunrekr, but she was also loved by his son, Erik. When Jörmunrekr discovered this alleged infidelity, he ordered Svanhild to be trampled to death by horses. This act of brutality is what ignites the fury of his sons.

In retaliation for their sister's murder, Jörmunrekr's sons, Erik and Angantyr, launched an attack against him. The ensuing battle was fierce, and Jörmunrekr was ultimately killed by his own sons. This saga serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of cruelty and the destructive cycle of revenge. The story of Jörmunrekr and his sons is found in various Old Norse sources, including the Poetic Edda and the Völsunga Saga.