Vikings & The Last Kingdom: How Are They Connected?

Hey guys! Ever wondered how Vikings and The Last Kingdom are connected? Both shows are epic historical dramas that have captivated audiences worldwide. While they might seem like separate sagas, there are definite connections and overlaps between these two amazing series. Let's dive into the fascinating world where Vikings clash with Saxons and explore the intertwined narratives that make these shows so compelling.

Historical Context: Setting the Stage

To understand the connection, let's set the stage with a bit of historical context. Both Vikings and The Last Kingdom draw inspiration from the same tumultuous period in history: the Viking Age. This era, spanning from the late 8th century to the mid-11th century, witnessed the expansion of Norse seafarers from Scandinavia, raiding and settling across Europe, including the British Isles. The Vikings TV series, primarily created by Michael Hirst, initially centers around the legendary Viking chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok and his family. It chronicles their raids on England, their establishment of settlements, and their complex relationships with the Anglo-Saxons. The show takes significant creative liberties with historical events, but it anchors itself in the sagas and chronicles of the time. The Last Kingdom, based on Bernard Cornwell's "The Saxon Stories" novels, offers a different perspective on this era. It focuses on the Anglo-Saxon perspective, specifically the kingdom of Wessex and its resistance against the Viking incursions. The protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, is a Saxon who was raised by Vikings, finding himself caught between two cultures. He is forced to choose between his Saxon roots and his Viking upbringing. This sets the stage for a gripping narrative of divided loyalties and cultural clashes. Understanding this historical backdrop is essential because it highlights why these shows often depict similar events and characters, albeit from different viewpoints. The Vikings' raids on England, the establishment of the Danelaw, and the conflicts between Viking and Saxon kingdoms form the shared history that binds these narratives together. The shows present differing accounts of the same timeline, providing rich, layered perspectives on the era's defining moments.

Overlapping Timelines and Events

The overlapping timelines and events are a crucial aspect when exploring the connection between Vikings and The Last Kingdom. While Vikings starts earlier, focusing on Ragnar Lothbrok's initial raids in the late 8th century, The Last Kingdom picks up the pace a few decades later. This creates a convergence where events depicted in Vikings lay the groundwork for the conflicts and power dynamics seen in The Last Kingdom. For example, the Viking Great Heathen Army, a massive invasion force that landed in England in 865 AD, is a pivotal event in both series. In Vikings, we witness the formation and initial campaigns of this army, led by Ragnar's sons, including the infamous Ivar the Boneless. We see their brutal tactics, their strategic brilliance, and their relentless pursuit of conquest. This sets the stage for the world Uhtred inhabits in The Last Kingdom. Uhtred's story begins amidst the chaos and devastation caused by the Great Heathen Army. The show depicts the struggles of the Saxon kingdoms to resist the Viking onslaught. Key historical events, such as the battles of York, and Ashdown, are portrayed in both shows, albeit with different narrative focuses. The presence of historical figures, like King Alfred the Great, further solidifies this connection. Alfred's rise to power and his determined defense of Wessex against the Vikings is a central theme in The Last Kingdom. Characters from Vikings, such as Ubbe, who was one of Ragnar's sons, appear in the history that The Last Kingdom follows, and fought against Alfred. This overlap in timelines and events creates a sense of a shared historical universe, where the actions and legacies of characters in Vikings directly impact the world and the challenges faced by characters in The Last Kingdom. It's like watching two different perspectives on the same grand historical tapestry, each enriching our understanding of this fascinating era.

Shared Characters and Lineages

Shared characters and lineages are another fascinating aspect of the connection between Vikings and The Last Kingdom. While The Last Kingdom primarily focuses on Anglo-Saxon characters and their struggles against the Vikings, it's impossible to ignore the impact and legacy of the Viking characters introduced in Vikings. Characters like Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons—Bjorn Ironside, Ivar the Boneless, Ubbe, and Hvitserk—cast long shadows over the events in The Last Kingdom. Although these characters may not directly appear in The Last Kingdom, their actions, conquests, and reputations have a profound impact on the political landscape and the ongoing conflicts between Vikings and Saxons. For instance, the Great Heathen Army, led by Ragnar's sons, is a major force in the early seasons of The Last Kingdom, shaping Uhtred's destiny and the fate of the Saxon kingdoms. Moreover, the descendants of these Viking leaders continue to play a role in the power dynamics of the Viking world, influencing alliances, rivalries, and the overall trajectory of the conflict. Even though The Last Kingdom centers on Uhtred, a Saxon raised by Vikings, his life is inextricably linked to the Viking legacy established in Vikings. Uhtred's allegiances, his understanding of Viking culture, and his relationships with Viking characters are all shaped by the events and characters from the earlier series. There are some indirect connections in the lineage of characters as well. For example, some characters in The Last Kingdom may be descendants of characters who appeared in Vikings, further solidifying the intertwined nature of these two narratives. While these connections may not always be explicitly stated, they add depth and richness to the viewing experience, rewarding attentive viewers who are familiar with both series. The shows create a cohesive and interconnected historical saga by subtly weaving these threads together, where the actions of one generation reverberate through the lives of those who follow.

Different Perspectives, Same World

Despite these connections, it's essential to recognize that Vikings and The Last Kingdom offer different perspectives on the same historical period. Vikings largely tells the story from the Viking point of view, exploring their culture, beliefs, and motivations. It delves into the complexities of Viking society, portraying them not just as ruthless raiders but also as explorers, traders, and settlers. The show examines their family dynamics, their religious practices, and their internal conflicts. The Last Kingdom, on the other hand, presents the Anglo-Saxon perspective, focusing on their resistance against the Viking invasions and their struggle to preserve their culture and independence. It highlights the challenges faced by the Saxon kingdoms, their political intrigues, and the resilience of their people. While both shows depict violence and warfare, they do so with different narrative goals. Vikings often glorifies the battlefield and celebrates the courage and ferocity of Viking warriors. It examines the personal costs of violence and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. The Last Kingdom tends to focus on the strategic and political consequences of warfare, highlighting the impact on civilian populations and the long-term ramifications for the Saxon kingdoms. These different perspectives enrich our understanding of the Viking Age, providing a more nuanced and comprehensive picture of this complex historical period. Rather than viewing the shows as conflicting narratives, they can be seen as complementary accounts that offer unique insights into the clash of cultures and the struggle for power that defined this era. By watching both Vikings and The Last Kingdom, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse experiences and perspectives of the people who lived through these tumultuous times. It's like reading different historical accounts of the same event, each offering a unique interpretation and shedding light on different aspects of the story.

Why Watch Both?

So, why should you watch both Vikings and The Last Kingdom? Well, for starters, both shows are incredibly well-made, with compelling characters, gripping storylines, and stunning visuals. They offer an immersive experience that transports you back to the Viking Age, allowing you to witness the clash of cultures, the brutality of warfare, and the complexities of human relationships. But beyond their entertainment value, watching both shows offers a more complete and nuanced understanding of this historical period. By seeing the events unfold from both the Viking and Anglo-Saxon perspectives, you gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges, motivations, and experiences of the people who lived through these times. You can compare and contrast the different cultural values, political strategies, and military tactics employed by the Vikings and Saxons, gaining insights into the factors that shaped the outcome of this historical conflict. Moreover, watching both shows allows you to appreciate the interconnectedness of these narratives and the ways in which the actions of one group impacted the lives of the other. You can trace the legacies of characters from Vikings in the events of The Last Kingdom, and vice versa, gaining a sense of the long-term consequences of their decisions. In essence, watching both Vikings and The Last Kingdom is like taking a comprehensive course on the Viking Age, taught from two different but equally compelling perspectives. It's an enriching and rewarding experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of history and a greater appreciation for the art of storytelling. Plus, let's be real, who doesn't love a good dose of epic battles, political intrigue, and charismatic characters? Both shows deliver on all fronts, making them a must-watch for any fan of historical dramas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the connection between Vikings and The Last Kingdom is undeniable. From overlapping timelines and events to shared characters and lineages, these two shows are intertwined in a way that enriches the viewing experience. While they offer different perspectives on the same historical period, they ultimately tell a cohesive and compelling story of the Viking Age. So, if you're a fan of historical dramas, do yourself a favor and watch both Vikings and The Last Kingdom. You won't be disappointed! You'll get a richer, more complete understanding of the history. Plus, you'll have a great time along the way. Skål (Cheers) to epic storytelling!