The Jomsvikings were a powerful and legendary band of Viking warriors based in Jomsborg on the Baltic Sea, up until they were disbanded by Thorfinn in 1019. Unlike other Viking bands, they function more like a military unit. This includes displaying more organization and discipline and wearing the same clothing and armor. Their distinctive weapon is a dark single-bladed axe with an eye pattern engraved on the head.
Thorfinn and Ylva are related to the leadership of the Jomsviking through their mother Helga, the daughter of chief Sigvaldi and niece of his brother Thorkell. Thors was the most renowned Jomsviking warrior prior to his defection.
Description[]
Overview[]
According to Leif Ericson, the Jomsvikings are so strong, that the King of Wendland was unable to collect any taxes from them. He also says that they take pride in being the strongest army in the North Sea.
Traditions[]
The Jomsvikings have a tradition of giving their most distinguished warriors a funeral at sea when they die. This is done by sending their body into the ocean on a ship, and then burning it once it's a little ways off the shore; all while a number of their members play some sort of ritualistic hymn on flutes. This sort of burial is performed for both Thors Snorreson and Vagn when they died.
Equipment[]
Throughout the series, Jomsvikings are usually seen wearing their signature white cloak. Besides this trade mark raiment, their equipment varies quite a bit. They are seen using spears, axes, swords, and bows as weapons; sometimes with or without the red and yellow Jomsviking shield. For armor, they are seen wearing chain mail, gambeson jackets, skull helmets, and gloves of various lengths.
History[]
The Jomsvikings were a legendary and powerul Viking group, running for fours generations back to at least the 980’s. They would be active in many battles throughout the years. They were very proud of being warriors, and dreamt of dying in battle in order to go to Valhalla and fight in ragnarok. Warriors had to be at least 18 years of age, and had to retire when they reached 50.
Battles & Conflicts[]
The Jomsvikings are shown to participate in several battles.
- The Battle of Hjörungavágr in 987
- The conquest of England by King Sweyn between the years of 1004-1014
- The reconquest of England by King Canute between the years of 1014-1017
- The battle at Ketil’s farm in the year 1018
- The Battle of Jomsborg in the year 1019
Trivia[]
- Tales of the Jomsvikings are recounted in various Scandinavian epics and lore. According to these legends, the Jomsvikings were active in the 10th and 11th centuries.
- However, a lack of evidence has led to debate over whether they truly existed or not.