flutningaþáttum

Flutningaþáttum is an Old Norse term that translates roughly to "elements of moving" or "factors of transport." It is not a single, universally defined concept but rather a descriptive phrase used in historical and linguistic contexts to refer to the various aspects, considerations, and means involved in the act of moving people or goods in the Viking Age and medieval Scandinavia.

Understanding flutningaþáttum involves examining a range of factors. This includes the physical means of transportation, such as longships for seafaring and river travel, horses for overland journeys, and carts or sleds for the movement of heavier items. It also encompasses the logistical challenges and planning required for such movements, including provisions, navigation, and the potential for both trade and raiding.

Furthermore, flutningaþáttum can touch upon the social and economic implications of movement. This might involve the establishment of trade routes, the migration of people for settlement or conquest, and the establishment of infrastructure like ports and roads. The term suggests a holistic view of transportation, acknowledging that it was not merely about the act of moving but also about the underlying reasons, methods, and consequences. Researchers encountering this term in sagas or other historical documents would look for clues about the type of movement, the resources involved, and the purpose behind the journey.