Nordic mercenary Hemming Strut-Haraldsson was famous from the Viking Age. He was born in the late 10th century and participated in the Jomsvikings’ legendary exploits in Jomsborg, on the Baltic Sea. Hemming is overshadowed by his more famous relatives but is remembered for his Viking military expeditions.
Family Background
Hemming was born into a prominent Viking family with battle and leadership heritage. Strut-Harald, a semi-legendary jarl of Scania, was his father, and his siblings were also famous. His family shaped his warrior and leader life.
| Name | Relation | Birth Year | Death Year | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strut-Harald | Father | c. 874 | c. 994 | Jarl of Scania, recognized for leadership in Viking society. |
| Sigvaldi Strut-Haraldsson | Brother | c. 990 | c. 1030 | Jarl and prominent Jomsviking leader involved in raids. |
| Thorkell the Tall | Brother | c. 950 | c. 1039 | Notable Viking commander known for his military prowess. |
| Tove Strut-Haraldsdatter | Sister | Unknown | Unknown | Married to Sigurd Kappe of Bornholm, tied to influential families. |
Hemming’s Life and Legacy
Hemming Strut-Haraldsson’s life is less chronicled than his brothers’, but his Viking exploits are significant. He fought alongside his brother Thorkell in several campaigns, exhibiting heroism and strategy. Despite his low profile, his family’s history lives on.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Scania, a region significant in Viking history. |
| Estimated Birth Year | Between 904 and 1024 |
| Death Year | c. 1014, reportedly murdered during military conflicts. |
| Notable Traits | Valued for loyalty and bravery in Viking warfare. |
The Jomsvikings
Hemming is linked to the famed Jomsviking mercenaries. This brotherhood raided and fought across Europe with a rigid code of conduct and excellent military skills. Hemming’s ties to this group show his involvement in Viking military tradition.
| Jomsvikings Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Formation | Semi-legendary brotherhood of warriors. |
| Key Attributes | Strong adherence to a warrior code, elite fighters. |
| Historical Significance | Engaged in numerous raids across Europe and influenced Viking expansion. |
Relationships and Marriages
Hemming’s marriages and connections influenced political relationships beyond his immediate family. His sister Tove married into the powerful Kappe family, cementing the Strut-Haraldsson heritage in Viking mythology.
| Family Relations | Notes |
|---|---|
| Tove Strut-Haraldsdatter | Hemming’s sister, married Sigurd Kappe. |
| Sigvaldi Strut-Haraldsson’s lineage | Ties to prominent Viking families through marriage. |
Legacy and Historical References
Hemming is rarely mentioned in history, frequently with more notable characters. His life is typical of many soldiers whose deeds were obscured by family traditions. However, his and his family’s efforts shaped Viking history.
| Legacy Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Historical Recognition | Lesser-known compared to his brothers. |
| Influence in Viking History | Involvement in notable military campaigns. |
| Cultural Representation | Represented in works discussing Viking lore. |
FAQ
How important was Hemming Strut-Haraldsson in Viking history?
Hemming, a mercenary and member of the powerful Strut-Haraldsson family, was known for his Viking military expeditions and ties to the Jomsvikings.
Who were Hemming’s family members?
Hemming’s father Strut-Harald, brothers Sigvaldi and Thorkell the Tall, and sister Tove, who married into another Viking dynasty, were renowned.
What was Hemming’s relationship with the Jomsvikings?
One of the Jomsvikings, an exclusive fraternity noted for their military ability, Hemming helped shape Viking attacks and expansion across Europe.
How did family affect Hemming?
Hemming’s family’s importance gave him military participation and alliances, affecting his role in Viking life and combat.
