fullfylljar

fullfylljar is a term that appears in the Icelandic sagas, particularly in the context of family feuds and honor. It refers to a kinsman or relative who is obligated to avenge the death of another family member. The concept of fullfylljar was a significant social and legal institution in medieval Iceland, deeply intertwined with the sagas' narratives of violence, revenge, and justice.

The primary duty of a fullfylljar was to seek retribution for the death of a kinsman, often through bloodshed. This obligation was not merely a personal choice but a societal expectation, enforced by cultural norms and the potential for social ostracization if not fulfilled. The failure to act as a fullfylljar could bring shame upon the individual and their family.

The sagas frequently depict the complexities and consequences of this avenging duty. It often led to escalating cycles of violence, as the act of revenge by a fullfylljar would, in turn, create a new obligation for the kinsmen of the victim. This process highlights the importance of kinship ties and the strong emphasis on honor and reputation within the Icelandic society depicted in the sagas. The role of the fullfylljar was a driving force behind many of the conflicts and dramatic events chronicled in these historical narratives.