Gandalf Alfgeirsson

2.1. Succession and Early Rule

Gandalf Alfgeirsson inherited the kingdom of Alfheim from his father, Alfgeir Vatnarsson. Alfheim, located in a strategic area between modern-day Norway and Sweden, was a significant petty kingdom during Gandalf's time. This inheritance marked the beginning of his active participation in the regional power struggles described in Heimskringla.

2.2. Conflict with Halfdan the Black

A central theme of Gandalf's reign was his protracted struggle with Halfdan the Black for control over the region that would eventually become Norway. This conflict specifically centered on the overlordship of Vingulmork. Despite their initial hostilities, Gandalf and Halfdan the Black eventually reached a temporary agreement to share control of Vingulmork. However, this accord proved to be fragile, and their rivalry continued. The sagas suggest that Gandalf and Halfdan were engaged in a continuous power dynamic over regional dominance.

2.3. Aftermath and Sons' Fate

Following Gandalf's presumed death, the conflict with Halfdan the Black intensified, involving Gandalf's three sons: Hysing, Helsing, and Hake. These sons attempted to ambush Halfdan the Black at night, a strategic move to regain their family's dominance. However, Halfdan escaped into the surrounding forest, thwarting their plan. After gathering his forces, Halfdan the Black returned and decisively defeated Gandalf's sons. In this battle, Hysing and Helsing were killed, while Hake managed to flee the country. Consequently, Halfdan the Black became the undisputed king of all of Vingulmork, and potentially gained control over the entirety of the old Alfheim kingdom.

The historical region of Álfheimr, which was central to Gandalf's narrative, is believed to have spanned modern-day Bohuslän in Sweden, the areas around the Göta älv and Klarälven rivers (the latter originating in Trysil), and the Glåmma river. It also included both the eastern and western parts of Vingulmork, near what is now Oslo. A part of Alfheim was notably given to King Guðrød Halfdanson by King Alfarinn as a dowry when Princess Alfhild married King Guðrød, who was the grandfather of Harald Fairhair, the first king to unite Norway. It is also mentioned that Olaf Geirstadalv's mother was either Alfhild herself or her aunt, Olöf.

3.1. Spouse and Children

Gandalf Alfgeirsson's only known wife was Gauthild Gyrithe Alfsdottir. Together, they presumably had four children:

• Alfhild
• Hysing
• Helsing
• Hake

3.2. Ancestry and Pedigree

Gandalf Alfgeirsson was the son of King Alfgeir Vatnarsson. His known paternal lineage, as described in the sagas, can be traced through several generations: