skjalabókum

Skjalabókum, often translated as "book of documents" or "record book," refers to a type of historical ledger or manuscript used in medieval Iceland for recording important societal information. These were not typically narrative histories in the modern sense, but rather practical compilations of laws, genealogies, charters, land deeds, and other legal and administrative records. Their primary function was to preserve and disseminate crucial information for the functioning of Icelandic society, particularly during the period of the Icelandic Commonwealth (c. 930-1262).

The content of skjalabókum varied greatly depending on their purpose and origin. Some might have been compiled by chieftains (goðar), church officials, or legal authorities. They served as essential references for legal disputes, inheritance claims, and the administration of land ownership. The preservation of genealogies was also a significant aspect, reflecting the importance of kinship and lineage in Icelandic social structure.

While many original skjalabókum have been lost to time, fragments and later copies exist, providing invaluable insights into medieval Icelandic law, social customs, and governance. These documents are critical primary sources for historians studying the period. The systematic recording of information in skjalabókum demonstrates a sophisticated level of organization and a commitment to maintaining order and legal certainty within the Icelandic commonwealth. Their existence underscores the importance placed on written records and their role in shaping the society of medieval Iceland.