Erling Skakke

Erling Skakke, the son of Kyrpinga-Orm, was a Norwegian strongman and earl during the 13th century. He earned his name during a crusade where he was cut in the neck with a sword. This caused him to tilt with the head to one side (skakke means slanted). He was marred to Kristina, the daughter of Sigurd Jorsalfar and they had the son Magnus Erlingsson, whom he managed to make elected king of Norway in 1161 and crowned in 1162.

Related Topics:
Kyrpinga-Orm - Earl - 13th century - Sigurd Jorsalfar - Magnus Erlingsson - 1161 - 1162

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When Sigurd Sverresson became the leader of the Birkebeiner, Erlings position was compromised, and he fell at the battle of Kalvskindet outside of Nidaros in 1179. King Sverri honoured his fallen opponent by giving a speech at his funeral in the church.

Related Topics:
Sigurd Sverresson - Birkebeiner - Nidaros - 1179

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Erling was a talented man, but he was not known for noble qualities. He was ruthless, especially when it concerned his own position and that of his son. In 1164, he founded an Augustine monastery at halsnø on the Hardanger fjord.

Related Topics:
1164 - Augustine - Halsnø - Hardanger fjord

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