Viking Glory vs. Valhalla: Why TV Shows Differ in Portraying Battle Deaths

The differing portrayals of attitudes toward dying in battle in the History Channel show Vikings and the Netflix series The Last Kingdom can be attributed to variations in historical interpretation, character development, and narrative focus within each series.

Vikings: Cultural Representation

In Vikings, the characters often embody a more romanticized and heroic view of death in battle. The show emphasizes the Viking ethos of glory and honor where dying with a sword in hand is celebrated as a noble end. Characters like Ragnar Lothbrok often embrace the idea of wyrd, suggesting that death is an inevitable part of life that should be faced with bravery regardless of the circumstances.

The narrative focus on epic journeys and adventures makes death an integral part of the characters' saga. The portrayal leans towards the idea that a warrior's life is filled with risks and they accept death as part of their legacy rather than something to be feared.

The Last Kingdom: Religious and Cultural Context

In The Last Kingdom, there is a greater emphasis on the Christian context of the characters' beliefs, particularly concerning the afterlife and concepts of heaven and hell. While the show does depict Viking beliefs, it also integrates the Anglo-Saxon perspective, which often includes the fear of not being able to enter Valhalla if one does not die heroically in battle. This reflects a more nuanced approach to the fear of death and the desire for a glorious afterlife.

Character motivation in The Last Kingdom often revolves around the fear of dying without honor. This fear is tied to their understanding of legacy and the need for an honorable death to ensure a place in Valhalla. The show explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the personal stakes involved in battle, making the characters' fears more pronounced.

Conclusion

In summary, the portrayal of attitudes towards death in battle in these two series reflects their distinct narrative styles and cultural interpretations. Vikings tends to celebrate the heroic acceptance of fate while The Last Kingdom delves into the fear and significance of dying honorably within a more complex moral and religious landscape.

Both series offer unique insights into the Viking culture and attitudes towards death. Vikings caters to audiences who appreciate the romanticized depiction of warriors, while The Last Kingdom provides a more realistic and nuanced look at the conflicts of the era. Understanding these differences can help viewers appreciate the historical and cultural contexts in which the two series were developed.