The Kings

They had total power over the lands they owned as rulers, being situated in the top of the hierarchic pyramid

Kings and earls in Norse lands were regional (rather than national) rulers in the beginning of the Viking era. But by the end of that era, individual kings had consolidated their power over most of the Scandinavian lands. The title of king or earl could be inherited, or it could be conferred by prominent supporters or the leader of military forces.

The king was expected to be generous not only with food and drink, but with clothes and weapons and gifts. He was expected to maintain his own and his followers’ honor against outsiders. He had to lead. He was required to be a strong fighter, daring, crafty, and hard, since he fought hand to hand beside his men.