Torf-Einarr
Einarr Rognvaldarson | |
|---|---|
| Earl of Orkney | |
| Title held | c. 895 to 910 or later |
| Predecessor | Hallad Rognvaldarson |
| Successor | Arnkel, Erlend and Thorfinn Torf-Einarsson |
| Native name | Torf-Einarr or Turf-Einar |
| Died | c. 910 or 930s |
| Noble family | Norse Earls of Orkney |
| Issue | Thordis, Arnkel, Erlend and Thorfinn |
| Father | Rognvald Eysteinsson |
| Mother | Unknown slave |
Einarr Rognvaldarson (fl. early 890s–c. 910), often referred to by his byname Torf-Einarr (sometimes anglicised as Turf-Einar), was one of the Norse earls of Orkney. The son of the Norse jarl Rognvald Eysteinsson and a concubine, his rise to power is related in sagas which apparently draw on verses of Einarr's own composition for inspiration. After battling for control of the Northern Isles of Scotland and a struggle with Norwegian royalty, Einarr founded a dynasty which retained control of the islands for centuries after his death.
He is portrayed as a successful warrior and has various characteristics in common with the Norse God Odin but his historicity is not in doubt. The reasons for his nickname of "Turf" are not certain.