hlaðning

Hlaðning is an Old Norse word that translates to "load" or "burden." In historical and literary contexts, it can refer to a physical load, such as goods being transported, or a metaphorical burden, like a difficult task or a heavy responsibility. The concept of hlaðning often appears in sagas and poems, describing the challenges faced by characters, whether they are sailing with cargo, enduring hardship, or carrying the weight of their actions. The term can also be found in discussions of social structures and duties, implying the responsibilities individuals held within their communities. Understanding hlaðning provides insight into the practical and emotional realities of life in the Viking Age.