boðmenn

Boðmenn is an Old Norse term that translates literally to "messenger" or "herald." In historical and mythological contexts, boðmenn were individuals entrusted with conveying messages, pronouncements, or invitations between people or entities. These messages could range from diplomatic communiqués and declarations of war to social invitations and requests for aid.

The role of a boðmaðr (singular form) was often one of considerable trust and importance. They needed to be reliable, articulate, and often brave, as their journeys could be perilous. Boðmenn were expected to deliver messages accurately and without alteration, preserving the integrity of the communication. Their presence could signify an official act, lending weight and legitimacy to the message being delivered.

In Norse sagas and mythology, boðmenn appear in various scenarios. They might be sent by kings to other rulers, by gods to humans, or by individuals to their kinsmen. The act of sending and receiving a boðmaðr was a recognized part of social and political interaction in the Viking Age and surrounding periods. Their role was integral to the functioning of society, facilitating communication across distances and between different social strata. The concept of the boðmaðr highlights the importance of oral communication and the established protocols surrounding the transmission of information in pre-literate or partially literate societies.