drängtet

Drängtet is a term historically used in parts of Scandinavia, particularly Sweden, to refer to a farmhand or male servant. These individuals were typically young men employed to perform various agricultural tasks on a farm. Their duties often included plowing, sowing, harvesting, tending to livestock such as cattle and horses, and maintaining farm equipment. The position of a drängtet was usually filled by someone from a lower social class, often seeking employment and room and board in exchange for their labor.

The role of a drängtet was integral to the functioning of many farms, especially those of moderate to large size. They provided essential manual labor that allowed the farm owner and their family to manage the agricultural operations effectively. The term itself suggests a connection to the "dräng," which also denoted a farmhand. While the specific responsibilities could vary depending on the region and the type of farm, the core function remained consistent: to provide labor for agricultural work. Over time, with changes in agricultural practices and social structures, the distinct role and terminology of drängtet have largely faded from common usage in modern Scandinavian societies.