Jomsvikings
The Jomsvikings were an order of Viking mercenaries or brigands which operated during the 10th and 11th centuries. Founded by Palnatoke, they were a highly selective all-male order which required adherence to a strict code of conduct in order to instill a sense of military discipline among its members; any violation of these rules could be punished with immediate expulsion.
History[edit | edit source]
During the late 9th century, a group of Jomsvikings were part of Eivor Varinsdottir's raiding party.[1]
In the late 10th century, Styrbjörn the Strong defeated the Jomsviking leader Palnatoke in a duel, assuming leadership of the Order. The Jomsvikings subsequently joined Styrbjörn and his army on their journey to Sweden to overthrow Styrbjörn's uncle, King Eric the Victorious. However, the army's march was repeatedly hindered by Eric's men, including Östen Jorundsson and the Hidden One Thorvald Hjaltason, and the Jomsvikings suffered heavy losses, with Palnatoke himself being slain by Thorvald during a night raid on Styrbjörn's camp.[2]
The order's new de facto leader, Gorm, reluctantly maintained the Jomsvikings' alliance with Styrbjörn, until the prince saved his and his men's lives during an ambush by Eric's men. This feat impressed Gorm and he swore fealty to Styrbjörn like Palnatoke before him. However, at the Battle of Fýrisvellir, Styrbjörn's army was ultimately defeated by Eric's forces, with Gorm and most of the Jomsvikings perishing during the fight.[2]
In 1043, King Magnus I of Norway decided to put an end to the Jomsvikings and so attacked their fortress of Jomsborg, killing many of its inhabitants. A blow the mercenaries never recovered from, as soon after their dwindling numbers became zero.[3]
Behind the scenes[edit | edit source]
Jomsvikings appear in Assassin's Creed: Valhalla set in the late 800s as mercenaries who can be hired as part of Eivor's longship crews to assist in raids. This is anachronistic as the Jomsviking are stated to have been founded nearly a century later by Harald Bluetooth or Palantoke.
Appearances[edit | edit source]
- Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Tomb of the Khan (first appearance)
- Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods
- Assassin's Creed: Valhalla
- Assassin's Creed: Escape Room Puzzle Book
- The World of Assassin's Creed Valhalla: Journey to the North – Logs and Files of a Hidden One (mentioned only)
References[edit | edit source]
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