Drot og marsk

Drot og marsk (roughly translated as "Lord High Steward and Marshal") was a high-ranking position in the medieval Scandinavian kingdoms, particularly in Denmark. It represented a combined role encompassing administrative, judicial, and military authority, second only to the King himself.

The drot element of the title, similar to "drottsete" in other Scandinavian languages, referred to the steward or the person in charge of the royal household and finances. The marsk element indicated the marshal, the chief military officer responsible for the King's army and defense.

The holder of this office wielded significant power and influence, often acting as the King's chief advisor and representative in various matters of state. They could command armies, preside over legal proceedings, and manage the royal treasury. Due to the concentration of power, the position of drot og marsk could sometimes become a threat to the King's authority, leading to political intrigue and power struggles.

Notable historical figures held the position, and the title played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of medieval Denmark. The influence of the drot og marsk diminished over time as royal power consolidated and administrative functions became more specialized, leading to the eventual obsolescence of the unified office. The title is most famously associated with the historical drama surrounding the assassination of King Erik Glipping in 1286, a period when the office held considerable sway.