Thormod the Skald was a warrior-poet from 11th century Iceland—loyal to King Olaf II of Norway and a true embodiment of honor. At the Battle of Stiklestad, Thormod was fatally wounded by an arrow, but even as he lay dying, he recited poetry and refused comfort. According to legend, he pulled the arrow from his chest himself and died praising his king.

In Norse culture, poetry wasn’t just art—it was courage, loyalty, and memory. Thormod lived and died with a sword in one hand and a poem in the other