The Clash Between Chieftains And The Farmers In Hrafnkel's Saga

Hrafnkel’s Saga centers on the clashes between chieftains and farmers in Eastern Iceland. At a young age, Hrafnkel asks that his father divide the property in order to establish himself in “an uninhabited valley” (36). Once he settles in Adabol, he constructs a large temple used to pay tribute to the gods. Frey, his favorite God, is given the best treasures and ceremonial sacrifices; He names his best stallion Freyfaxi in honor of his admiration for Frey, god associated with prosperity. In a short period of time, Hrafnkel gains possession of the entire valley and becomes both priest and chieftain to all residents. Eventually, he becomes notorious for being a ruthless, unjust ruler lacking compassion for the people. Hrafnkels’ Sage revolves
Einar reaffirms Hrafnkel that “he would never be so wicked as to ride the one horse which was forbidden to him, particularly, since there were plenty of other horses at his disposal” (40). Clearly, Einar demonstrates full comprehension of the situation and acknowledges that he is provided all of the tools needed to not ride Freyfaxi. Similarly, he is fully aware of his actions when he decides to ride Freyfaxi. When in search of the missing horses, Einar decides “ to ride the stallion, thinking Hrafnkel would never find out…Einar rode Freyfaxi from dawn to mid-evening, travelling fast and far, for this was an outstanding horse” (41). Aware that Freyfaxi cannot be ridden, Einar abuses of the stallion by riding it for an extended period of time without taking proper care of
Unlike the others, Hfrankel addresses Thorbjorn and offers to supply his:
“household with plenty of milk in the summer and meat in the autumn, and [he’ll] keep doing this every year for as long as you chose to live on your farm. I’ll also provide for your sons and daughters to give them a good start in life. And from now on you only need tell me if there’s anything in my possession which you want and you’ll have it and never have to do without” (43-44).
Clearly, Hfrankel laments him actions towards Einar. He goes as far as basically looking after Einar’s family for the rest of their lives. Sadly, Thorbjorn only wants revenge. He convinces Sam, his nephew, to help get justice for Einar. However, their intentions soon turn into pure evil. When they outlaw Hfrankel, they surprise him and his men one morning by charging into the farmstead. When all were