Ellen Lloyd - AncientPages.com - Like in any other ancient society, Norse people had to follow laws and rules, but there were often disputes, and sometimes people decided it was better to solve a matter through a challenge.
It was done by a Holmgang, a duel that had to occur within three to seven days after the challenge was announced. Not showing up for the challenge was not a good idea.
If the person challenged did not show up for the Holmgang, then his opponent was considered the winner of the dispute by default. Not turning for a Holmgang caused shame to the entire clan. A person who decided not to participate in a Holmgang was deemed niðingr.
In modern days, we would say a coward, but looking through the eyes of the Norse people, it was one of the worst things you could be called. It was a social stigma implying a loss of honor and a villainous status. The result was that he could be sentenced to an outlaw.
This is a preview of our premium article available only to members of Ancient Pages.
Become a member to read more - Click here
If you are already a member and have logged in to your account, you can access the article here
See also:
How Was A Viking King Elected And What Was Expected From Him?
Vikings Had Dark Humor And Joked Even During Deadly Battles
The Fierce Great Heathen Army And The Invasion Of East Anglia
