About...The Jarls & Nobles of Norveg

Jarl is a rank of the nobility. In Old Norse, it meant "chieftain", particularly a chieftain set to rule a territory in a king's stead. Jarls can also mean a sovereign Prince. The tile of Jarl is the highest rank, below the King. 

Jarls protected the honor, prosperity and security of their people in the land they ruled over. In return, the jarl's retainers were expected to support him, go with him on raids and follow him into battle.

In Norveg there is only ever 5 Jarls at any one time, each with their own territory to rule over.

​

Becoming a Jarl

To ascend to the esteemed position of Jarl, an individual must meet certain criteria, regardless of whether the title is inherited. Among these requirements, one must have Viking blood coursing through their veins, typically indicated by having one or both parents of Viking lineage. Furthermore, the individual must be at least 21 years old, having reached adulthood, and have received a comprehensive upbringing steeped in the traditions and ways of the Vikings.

Integral to the path of becoming a Jarl is firsthand experience in the life of a Viking. It is expected that the aspirant has participated in at least one raid, demonstrating their readiness to lead and their commitment to the Viking way of life. For Vikings, the transition to manhood often occurs around the age of 15, marking the beginning of their active involvement in raids and other endeavors befitting a Viking warrior.

Crucially, a Jarl's allegiance must lie solely with Norveg, their ancestral homeland. This unwavering loyalty to their people and territory is an essential characteristic for assuming the role of leadership. The Jarl is entrusted with safeguarding the interests and well-being of Norveg, and their commitment to this cause should be unwavering.

Thus, the journey to becoming a Jarl entails a combination of Viking lineage, training, experience, and a steadfast dedication to the Lowlands. Those who fulfill these criteria and prove their mettle are granted the esteemed position of Jarl, entrusted with the responsibility of leading their people and preserving the Viking legacy of Norveg

​

Life of a Jarl…

Jarls were at the top of the Viking hierarchy. They controlled land, boats and many families of karls and Thralls. Their wealth was frequently measured in terms of followers, treasure, ships and estates. This wealth was usually inherited or earned through warfare and raiding.

The eldest son of the jarl was typically the one to inherit the wealth and power when the jarl died. Although, it was possible for a karl to become a jarl if they become a famed warrior or gathered enough followers and wealth to take the throne from the current jarl.

The power of a jarl depended upon their supporters. The jarl’s essential task was to uphold the security, prosperity and honour of their followers and a jarl could be removed from their power by their followers if the community felt the jarl was not honourable. This happened on rare occasions but when it did, it had to be authorized by the King if he was agreeable with the reasons for it. 

​

As the Jarls were entrusted men and sometimes relatives of the King, they had complete jurisdiction over their own territories, the King rarely got involved. The Jarls frequently met up with each other and the King, to discuss future raids, potentials threats, to get advice, or give opinions, and exchange ideas for the prosperity of Norveg