stofnkostum

Stofnkostum is a term that appears in Icelandic sagas and historical texts. It generally refers to the expenses associated with maintaining a household, including food, clothing, and other necessities. This encompassed the costs of provisions for the family, servants, and any laborers working on the farm. The procurement and management of stofnkostum were crucial for the survival and prosperity of households, especially in the often harsh medieval Icelandic environment.

The specific items included under stofnkostum varied depending on the wealth and status of the household. For a wealthy chieftain, it might include imported goods, fine fabrics, and a larger quantity of provisions. For a poorer farmer, it would be more basic necessities like grains, dairy products, and homespun wool. The concept also extended to the upkeep of livestock, as animals provided essential resources like meat, milk, wool, and hides, all contributing to the overall cost of maintaining the household.

Records of stofnkostum can provide valuable insights into the economic conditions and daily life of medieval Icelanders. They help historians understand agricultural practices, trade patterns, and the social stratification of the time. The management of these costs was a significant responsibility for the head of the household, often referred to as the bóndi. Effective management ensured that the family had enough to eat and wear throughout the year, especially during the long and challenging winters.