Sigurd Lavard
Sigurd Lavard (died c. 1200) was the oldest son of King Sverre of Norway. The name "Lavard" is an epithet which probably derives from the Old Norse word for lord.
Background
Sigurd Sverresson Lavard is mentioned the first time during the struggles of
Sigurd Munn, Sverre had his own son change name accordingly. Sverre became king of Norway by leading a rebellion against the previous King Magnus.[1]
Career
King Magnus was defeated and killed in 1184, but in 1196 his old followers united to form the
Rånrike. King Sverre gave Sigurd Lavard the responsibility of guarding a ballista which he had built. However, during the night, the Baglers launched a surprise attack. Sigurd and his men were caught off guard and chased away and the ballista destroyed. Sigurd was not given any commands after this episode. Sigurd Lavard died in 1200 or 1201 while his father was still alive. He left behind a young son Guttorm who would be king for a few months in 1204.[2][3]
Other sources
Sverris saga is the main source of the brief life history of Sigurd Lavard.
References
Other sources
- ISBN 82-03-23201-9.