Jarl
The powers that be among the tribal, martial people known as the Vörðr, the title of jarl is one that commands great prestige and respect amongst those of the lower classes. In the absence of a high king, the 13 jarls of Hadorstadir battle for control of the crown and the privileges that come with it.
Qualifications
The title of jarl is primarily handed down through blood: the father generally gives it to the eldest son, but he can overturn this decision if he does not feel he is right for the seat. In this case, he may deliberate amongst his advisors on who is the best child for the position. If the jarl dies without an heir, the seat is generally handed down to either the closest family or a trusted advisor: most jarls have a clause in their wills stating which they’d prefer.
Requirements
As stated above, the title of jarl is primarily a primogenitive role, passed down from the eldest son, though that can be overruled by the jarl in power, though this is rare. Generally a jarl serves until they day, so if conditions allow, a jarl to be can become quite old before they gain the title. Such conditions are rare though and more often a jarl will die in battle or be forced to step down, generally due to poor mental health in their old age.
History
The jarls are so ingrained into the Vörðr culture that no one remembers when the first was. As long as the records can go back, the land has been ruled over by at least one jarl, as the first king is reported to have been crowned in 786 o.p., according the the Vörðr sagas at any rate. There are even stories that tell of jarls that ruled them before Hadorstadir separated from the larger landmass of Kadagard: this implies that a similar role existed at this time, although as the records are limited, it is difficult to say for sure.
Cultural Significance
The title of jarl holds a great weight among the Vörðr tribes of Hadorstadir, as these are the poplitical powers of the island with the lack of the high king. This concept is also important to the Briane of the past, but have since been replaced by the dukes that rule the provinces. However, the Brialic word for a duke is "æral," no doubt influenced by the word "jarl." In fact, these words are cognate, meaning they come from similar linguistic, if not the same, roots.
Type
Nobility, Hereditary
Status
The jarls are currently the only power in Hadorstadir with lack of a high king. If a king was to be in place, jarl would be the highest rank under him.
Form of Address
Lord/Lady
Equates to
A jarl is equivalent in power to a duke and a jarldom is thus a duchy. The word jarl means "chieftain," in particular one who holds significant power and status among other chieftains in their region. In Hadorstadir, the sovereign prince is also referred to as a jarl.
Source of Authority
Much of the jarl’s authority comes from the respect of his subjects as well as the cultural class consciousness of the Vörðr: they are highly aware of who falls into what class and can be quite strict.
Length of Term
Jarls serve till life, or until the jarl if forced to step down.
Current Holders
Related Locations
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