How Much of The Last Kingdom is Factual?
The Last Kingdom, a popular Netflix series, is based on the Saxon Stories novels by Bernard Cornwell. The show explores the life of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon boy captured and raised by Danish Vikings, as he navigates the turbulent 9th and 10th centuries in England. But how much of The Last Kingdom is factual, and what historical events does the show draw from? In this article, we’ll delve into the truth behind the fiction.
Factual Characters
Several characters in The Last Kingdom are based on real individuals from history. Father Beocca, a Christian priest and Uhtred’s mentor, was a real person who was killed in 894 CE. King Alfred of Wessex, also known as Alfred the Great, is a well-known historical figure who ruled from 871 to 899 CE. Ivar the Boneless, one of the Viking leaders, was a real Viking warlord who played a key role in the Viking Age. These characters, although fictionalized, are grounded in historical records.
Historical Events
The Last Kingdom draws inspiration from various historical events, such as the Viking invasions of England, which occurred from the late 8th to the 11th centuries. The show depicts the tumultuous relationships between the English kingdoms and the Viking leaders, mirroring the events that shaped the course of English history. The Battle of Edington in 878 CE, which marked a significant defeat for the Vikings, is also referenced in the series.
Fictional Events and Characters
While some characters and events in The Last Kingdom are inspired by historical records, many are purely fictional. Uhtred’s life story, including his capture as a child and his growth into a Saxon leader, is not based on any historical accounts. Similarly, the Seven Kingdoms of England, mentioned in the show, is a fictional concept, and the politics and alliances between these kingdoms are not based on real events.
Historical Accuracy
So, how accurate is The Last Kingdom in its depiction of historical events and characters? Historians and scholars have praised the show for its attention to historical detail, from the clothing and armor worn by characters to the Viking longships and English architecture. However, some liberties have been taken to improve the narrative and character arcs. The show’s creators have acknowledged the need to balance historical accuracy with storytelling demands.
Table: Historical Events vs. Fictional Events in The Last Kingdom
| Historical Event | Fictional Event |
|---|---|
| Viking invasions of England | Battle of Hasting (real), but Uhtred’s involvement is fictional |
| King Alfred’s rule | Real, but events and characters are fictionalized |
| Battle of Edington | Real, but details are fictionalized |
| Life of Uhtred | Entirely fictional |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while The Last Kingdom takes creative liberties with historical events and characters, it draws inspiration from significant events in English history, such as the Viking invasions and the reign of King Alfred. The show’s factual characters, including Father Beocca, King Alfred, and Ivar the Boneless, add authenticity to the narrative. By balancing historical accuracy with storytelling demands, the show offers a compelling blend of fact and fiction that entertains and educates audiences.