þvegnir

þvegnir is a term found in Old Norse literature, primarily associated with the *Poetic Edda*, a collection of Old Norse poems compiled in the 13th century. The word appears in the poem *Hávamál* (or *The Sayings of the High One*), specifically in stanza 143, where it is used in the phrase *"þvegnir þínir"* ("your servants"). In this context, it refers to loyal followers or retainers who serve a chieftain or king, often in a warrior capacity.

The concept of þvegnir reflects the feudal structure of Viking Age society, where loyalty and military service were central to social bonds. These retainers were expected to provide protection, support, and military strength to their lord in exchange for land, wealth, or other forms of compensation. The relationship was deeply personal, emphasizing honor, oaths, and mutual obligation.

In *Hávamál*, the term appears in a passage where Odin, speaking as the wise and all-knowing figure, advises a chieftain on how to maintain good relations with his followers. The stanza suggests that a leader should reward loyalty and ensure their þvegnir remain content, as their support was vital for success in battle and governance. The term does not appear frequently in Norse texts, but its presence underscores the importance of retainers in Norse culture.

The exact etymology of *þvegnir* is debated among linguists, but it likely derives from the Proto-Germanic root *þwegjan*, meaning "to follow" or "to accompany." This aligns with its meaning as a follower or attendant. While the term is not commonly used in modern contexts, it remains a significant element in the study of Norse social structures and poetic tradition.