auðmenn

Auðmenn is an Old Norse term that translates to "men of wealth" or "the wealthy." It was a social and economic designation used in medieval Iceland and other Norse societies. This term referred to individuals who possessed significant material possessions, including land, livestock, ships, and money. Their wealth often granted them considerable social standing and influence within their communities.

The accumulation of wealth by auðmenn was typically achieved through various means. These could include successful farming, trade, seafaring ventures, and inheritance. Their economic power allowed them to maintain large households, employ laborers, and engage in extensive patronage. Owning valuable resources like silver or gold was also a key indicator of being an auðmaðr.

The concept of auðmenn is frequently encountered in Old Norse literature, particularly in sagas and historical accounts. These texts often portray them as key figures in political and social affairs, sometimes acting as chieftains or leaders. Their wealth was not merely a private matter but a public attribute that shaped their roles and responsibilities within the society. While the specific definition of "wealthy" could vary, the term auðmenn consistently denoted a position of economic prominence and its associated power.