[2][3] The profile is specified in Rígsthula, a Scandinavian legend describing the god Ríg lying with three couples to procreate and give birth to the three social classes: thralls, karls (or bændr) and jarls.
The Norse mythology cites Karl as a result of the illicit relationship between god Heimdal and mortal Amma.
[4] The odalsbóndi (owner with hereditary possessions) could give up some of their land to other karls in exchange for loyalty and unconditional support whenever necessary.
[5] However, the term karl in some ancient writings denoting a free man status of low social class without access to family ties with upper castes or royalty.
[6] The bóndi had parallel activities; were great sailors, merchants, and Vikings; in areas further north also hunters and fishermen.