Rolf

Family: Danes · Role: son of Urse · First appears: Book Two · Part 8

After succeeding his father, Urse’s son Rolf visited Athisl in Sweden, tempted by promises of gifts. Athisl had married Urse to influence Rolf and reduce the tribute; Urse refused Rolf food and help with his coat before he revealed that he was her son. Rolf endured a trial by fire, received treasures and a heavy necklace from Athisl, then escaped by rowing to his ships when Athisl stooped to gather the plunder. Later, when Athisl harried him, Rolf defeated him in battle.

In Book Two · Part 11, Rolf gave his sister Skulde in marriage to Hiartuar and made him governor of Sweden, imposing a yearly tax. He rewarded Wigg for a jest with a heavy bracelet, and Wigg vowed to avenge him if he died by the sword. But in Book Two · Part 12, Skulde urged Hiartuar to break from Rolf and plot against him. At Leire, Hiartuar’s men attacked the sleeping household by night; Hjalte returned to town and fought them. Rolf also slew Rorik and shared the captured wealth among worthy friends. In Book Two · Part 16, the Goths defeated Rolf’s army; all fell but Wigg.