Note 64 — Chapter IV · THOR, HIS WIFE SIF AND SON ULLER.

Holmgang (literally isle-gang) is a duel taking place on a small island. Each combatant was attended by a second who had to protect him with a shield. The person challenged had the right to strike the first blow. When the opponent was wounded, so that his blood stained the ground, the seconds might interfere and put an end to the combat. He that was the first wounded had to pay the holmgang fine.