Sigvatr

Sigvatr Þórðarson, commonly anglicized as Sigvat, was an Icelandic skald active in the early 11th century. He is one of the best-known early Icelandic poets whose verses survive in later compilations. Sigvatr is traditionally associated with the Norwegian court, where he served as court poet to kings Olaf II Haraldsson (Olaf the Saint) and Harald III Sigurdsson (Harald Hardrada). His poems are known from fragments preserved in later sources, including Ólafsdrápa in praise of Olaf II and Haraldsdrápa honoring Harald Hardrada. While the exact dates of his life are uncertain, he is usually placed in the first half of the 11th century, with activity around 1000–1050.

Sigvatr’s verse is written in the dróttkvætt meter typical of skaldic poetry and makes extensive use of kennings and alliteration. His poems combine praise of kings with accounts of battles and journeys, and occasional elegy, providing a valuable historical perspective on Norse politics, religion, and culture during a period of significant transition in Norway and Iceland.

In later Icelandic literature, Sigvatr is cited as a principal source for the rulers he served and as an exemplar of the skaldic craft. His influence extends to subsequent generations of poets and to scholars studying medieval Norse poetry.