Age of the Sturlungs

Definition

The Age of the Sturlungs refers to a tumultuous period in medieval Iceland during the 13th century, characterized by intense clan rivalries, civil wars, and political strife. This era saw the decline of the Icelandic Althing's power and the rise of powerful families vying for control, leading to a chaotic socio-political landscape that ultimately set the stage for external influences from Norway and Denmark.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of the Sturlungs lasted from about 1220 to 1264 and was marked by violent power struggles among Icelandic chieftains and their factions.
2. Significant events during this time included battles such as the Battle of Örlygsstaðir (1238) and the Battle of Hrossey (1244), which showcased the intensity of clan conflicts.
3. The period is often considered a turning point that led to the consolidation of power under foreign rule, especially with Iceland coming under Norwegian control after 1262.
4. Literature flourished during this time, with sagas being written that documented the events and individuals of this turbulent era, blending historical fact with legendary narratives.
5. The Age of the Sturlungs resulted in a shift from local governance by chieftains to centralized control, impacting Iceland's political landscape for centuries to come.

Review Questions

• What were the main causes of conflict during the Age of the Sturlungs, and how did these conflicts shape Iceland's political landscape?
  • The main causes of conflict during the Age of the Sturlungs included intense rivalry among powerful families, specifically over land and influence, as well as disputes over leadership within the Althing. These conflicts led to civil wars that weakened local governance structures, resulting in chaos and instability. Ultimately, these struggles paved the way for external forces, particularly Norway's influence over Icelandic affairs, marking a significant shift in political control.
• Analyze how literature from the Age of the Sturlungs reflects the social and political climate of medieval Iceland.
  • Literature from the Age of the Sturlungs provides critical insights into the tumultuous social and political climate of medieval Iceland. The sagas written during this time often focus on themes of honor, revenge, and familial loyalty amid clan conflicts. These narratives not only document historical events but also serve to convey societal values and norms during a period characterized by turmoil, illustrating how storytelling became a means to process and understand the chaos around them.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Age of the Sturlungs on Iceland's governance and relationship with foreign powers.
  • The long-term implications of the Age of the Sturlungs significantly altered Iceland's governance structure and its relationship with foreign powers. The internal strife weakened local autonomy and led to increased dependence on external authorities, culminating in Iceland’s eventual submission to Norwegian rule in 1262. This shift not only changed how Iceland was governed but also laid the groundwork for centuries of foreign influence that shaped its political identity. The legacy of clan rivalries persisted, influencing future political dynamics even under foreign domination.

Related terms

Althing: The national parliament of Iceland, established around 930 AD, which served as a forum for resolving disputes and making laws.

Sturlungar: A prominent family dynasty in Iceland during the Age of the Sturlungs, known for their influential role in politics and literature.

Þingvellir: A historical site in Iceland where the Althing was held, symbolizing the early democratic governance of Iceland before the turmoil of the Sturlung period.