Is the Last Kingdom and Vikings Valhalla Related? Understanding the Connection Between the Two

Given that both historical shows examine analogous issues of religion, identity, and ethnicity, there is speculation on a potential connection between The Last Kingdom and Vikings. Despite its longstanding presence, the 2010s seen a burgeoning interest in the historical fiction genre.

Vikings was crucial to this trend, captivating audiences with its lore and characters, particularly Ragnar and Lagertha. They were captivated by the enthralling, blood-soaked combat sequences and compelling narratives.

Given the series’ significant success, it was unsurprising that other streaming sites and channels commenced the production of shows resembling Vikings.

Although other presentations were exceptional, The Last Kingdom notably captivated Vikings’ enthusiasts due to its analogous structure, incorporation of historical people, and ongoing examination of the conflicts between the Anglo-Saxons and the Danes.

This has prompted some individuals to question whether The Last Kingdom is a spinoff or a sequel, with some still perplexed to this day.

The Last Kingdom is Not a Sequel to Vikings

Despite the numerous similarities between the two series, regrettably, The Last Kingdom is neither a sequel nor a spinoff of Vikings. The Last Kingdom is based on Bernard Cornwell’s acclaimed historical novels, The Saxon Stories, which chronicle Uhtred of Bebbanburg’s quest to restore his homeland, taken from him in childhood.

Despite being reared by Danes, he soon grapples with maintaining loyalty to his family, having sworn an oath to serve Alfred the Great and the Saxons. The series utilized five seasons to present this narrative, ultimately concluding in the film, Seven Kings Must Die.

Although this may be disappointing, new fans of Vikings will be pleased to learn that Netflix commissioned a sequel to the series in 2021, entitled Vikings: Valhalla. This narrative occurs a century following the events of Vikings and details the lives of figures such as William the Conqueror, Leif Erikson, and Emma of Normandy.

Similar to its predecessor, Vikings: Valhalla features a skilled cast that effectively animates these characters.

The Historical Context of the Last Kingdom in Relation to Vikings

Although The Last Kingdom and Vikings feature distinct protagonists, both episodes depict a comparable historical period known as the Viking Age. The premiere episode of Vikings is set in 793 A.D. and commences with Ragnar’s assault on Lindisfarne, while The Last Kingdom’s pilot is situated in 866 A.D., providing insight into Uhtred’s upbringing prior to his capture by the Danes during the Siege of Eoferwic.

The narrative subsequently advances several years, during which Uhtred has matured into adulthood and begins devising a strategy to reclaim his birthright and residence. This indicates that there is around a century between the two. Nonetheless, this gap may have overlapped at some juncture. Considering that Vikings and its spinoff encompass the entirety of the Viking Age (793-1066 A.D.), the series will inherently feature analogous historical events and significant occurrences, such as the reign of Alfred the Great (871-899) and the pivotal conflicts between the opposing factions.

The primary distinction is that The Last Kingdom narrative emphasizes the reigns of Alfred the Great, Edward the Elder (899-924 A.D.), and Æthelstan (927-939 A.D.), as they are pivotal to Uhtred’s saga and the unification of England. The series and film do not require any elaboration.

Connections Between Characters in The Last Kingdom and Vikings

Although The Last Kingdom and Vikings are not situated in the same universe, audiences encounter numerous analogous and legendary characters.

Both shows feature Alfred the Great, although they depict the monarch in contrasting manners; in The Last Kingdom, he is shown as older and wiser, while in Vikings, he is characterized as younger, inexperienced, and irresponsible.

Aethelred, Alfred’s brother, is featured in both series. Nonetheless, he appears in only three episodes of The Last Kingdom, as he was not crucial to the narrative the writers intended to convey (his demise was merely required to facilitate Alfred’s ascension).

Despite his absence from the screen, the writers affirm that Ivar the Boneless is part of The Last Kingdom universe…

These two are not the sole characters shared by the programs. Although Ubba (or Ubbe) assumes a more prominent position in Vikings as the son of Ragnar Lothbrok, he is diminished to a supporting character in The Last Kingdom, serving as a minor antagonist in season 1.

Despite his absence from the screen, the writers affirm that Ivar the Boneless is part of The Last Kingdom world, having been slain in season 1, episode 4, while in Ireland.

By using the same iconic characters and significant figures, the writers of The Last Kingdom and Vikings appear to be emphasizing their historical importance to the audience.

Which Incidents Intersect the Series?

Although there is no genuine connection between Vikings and The Last Kingdom, the two programs can be perceived as a nearly flawless chronological narrative of Viking society. Due to the temporal disparity between the two shows, there is minimal overlap in their narratives.

Nonetheless, the one significant event that both series depict is Alfred’s reign as King of the Vikings. In season 3 of Vikings, the future king is born, while in season 3 of The Last Kingdom, Alfred dies.

Nonetheless, although both episodes depict the character’s impact on the Viking realm, his participation in each program underscores the divergent interpretations of history presented. In Vikings, Alfred is depicted as the king, but his brother Aethelred attempts to usurp him.

However, The Last Kingdom has Alfred ascending to the throne following Aethelred’s demise. Notwithstanding historical disparities, the reign of Alfred represents the most significant event illustrating the intersection of Vikings and The Last Kingdom.

If you enjoyed the detailed historical structure and connections between characters in The Last Kingdom and Vikings, more research awaits! Visit our website for detailed articles, series comparisons, and debates around your preferred historical shows. Remain informed and active with the most recent material!