þegin

Þegin is a term used in Old Norse literature and law to describe a chieftain or a leader of a group of people. In Norse society, þeign was a hereditary title that signified a person's position as a wealthy landowner or a member of the nobility. The term is derived from the Old Norse word "þegi", which means "noble" or "of noble birth".

Þegin was not only a title of nobility but also a measure of a person's social status and influence within their community. A þegin was expected to exercise leadership, provide protection and support to his followers, and uphold the laws and customs of the land. In return, the people under his rule were required to provide him with goods, services, and military support.

Þegin was also a key concept in the Icelandic Commonwealth period, which lasted from the late 10th century to the early 14th century. During this time, the country was divided into several regions, each governed by a panel of chieftains or þeigns. These chieftains had significant influence in local matters and were responsible for upholding local law, mediating disputes, and providing military support to their followers.

The system of þeigns and their influence on local governance was codified in the Icelandic laws, particularly in the Grágás, which was a comprehensive legal code written in the 12th century. The þeign system was later replaced by a more centralized system of governance, but its legacy continued to shape Icelandic politics and society for centuries to come.