Wiglaf (505–583) was the last King of the Geats, ruiling from 580 to 589, succeeding Beowulf; King Högne, who ruled the region as King of Östergötland, would rule the remaining Geatland territory left after the Swedes conquered much of the region.
Wiglaf was a loyal friend of Beowulf, serving as his right-hand man. He was the son of Weohstan and a member of the Wægmunding clan. As a distant relative of Beowulf, and his status as a well-regarded warrior, Wiglaf was able to become and loyal thane. Wiglaf was the only one of Beowulf’s retainers who stood by the aging king during his final conflict, recorded in Anglo-Saxon sources as a battle with a dragon, helping to slay the beast and receiving Beowulf’s treasures and kingship thereafter
Biography[]
Wiglaf was born to Weohstan, a swede of the Wægmunding clan, the same clan as Beowulf’s father Ecgþeow. Whilst serving King Onela of Sweden, Weohstan killed the rebel prince Eanmund and received Onela's sword and armour in thanks, which he later passed to Wiglaf. Once Onela had died, Eanmund's brother Eadgils became king of the Swedes, and Weohstan found it prudent to leave the service of the Scylfings, so he and Wiglaf had come to live among the Geats.
Wiglaf grew up alongside Beowulf, becoming a warrior in his service. Throughout the years he proved his loyalty and is given lands and titles in return,
During Beowulf's final confrontation, most of his assembled war band fled in fear, Wiglaf alone overcame his fear. He advanced to assist Beowulf despite having incurred extensive damage to his shield and weapons in the conflict. He continued to advance, helping Beowulf to deliver a killing blow. Unfortunately, Beowulf was mortally wounded in the encounter. Wiglaf’s hand is burned and he tends Beowulf as the king dies.
Before Beowulf dies he gives Wiglaf his gold, armour and torc, bestowing kingship upon him because he was the one man worthy to inherit Beowulf’s material symbols. As the new leader left to rule the Geats he sets about rebuking the cowardly thanes.
Wiglaf's reign was short as it would be ended by invading Swedes who would conquer much of Geatland spurred on by King Beowulf's death.
Gallery[]
| King of the Geats | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by: Beowulf |
580-583 | Succeeded by: Högne as King of Östergötland |