The last episode of the historical drama Vikings was “The Last Act,” which aired on December 30, 2020. This concluding chapter brought resolutions (both satisfying and tragic) to the storylines of several major characters while simultaneously setting the stage for the sequel series, Vikings: Valhalla.
The End of an Era: A Deep Dive into “The Last Act”
“The Last Act” represents not only the culmination of season six but also the entire Vikings saga, initiated by Ragnar Lothbrok’s ambitions and shaped by the destinies of his sons. The episode centers on several pivotal conflicts: the fate of Kattegat, the ambitions of Ivar the Boneless in Rus’, and the voyages of Ubbe to new lands. The overarching theme is undeniably one of legacy, questioning what these legendary figures will ultimately leave behind. It’s a powerful blend of historical speculation and dramatic license, a hallmark of the series.
The battle scenes in Rus’, particularly Ivar’s final stand, are visually stunning and emotionally charged. They are a testament to the show’s commitment to historical accuracy (within the boundaries of dramatic storytelling, of course) in depicting Viking warfare. However, the episode also dedicates significant time to Ubbe’s discovery of what is believed to be North America, offering a glimmer of hope and new beginnings amidst the bloodshed. This parallel narrative provides a contrasting perspective on the Viking spirit – a blend of savagery and exploration.
The emotional core of “The Last Act” lies in the character arcs. Each significant character faces their ultimate reckoning. Ivar, despite his brutality, displays a vulnerability and a longing for connection that humanizes him in his final moments. Ubbe’s journey is one of peace and discovery, symbolizing the potential for a different kind of Viking future. Finally, the resolution of the power struggle in Kattegat, while not without its losses, points towards a more stable and prosperous future for the settlement.
Deciphering the Departures: Key Character Endings
Understanding the ending of Vikings requires analyzing the fate of its key players:
Ivar the Boneless: A Tragic Hero’s Demise
Ivar’s death is arguably the most impactful moment of the episode. After years of portraying him as a ruthless and unpredictable warrior, “The Last Act” gives him a degree of redemption. He deliberately engineers his own death in battle, recognizing that his strategic genius is no match for the united Rus’ and Viking forces. More importantly, he wants to ensure that King Alfred, his adversary, survives, believing him to be the future of England. This act of self-sacrifice, driven by a desire to protect those he secretly admired, complicates our perception of Ivar and solidifies his place as a tragic figure. He finally admits his fear and fragility before succumbing to his wounds, a far cry from the unyielding tyrant he often portrayed.
Ubbe’s New World: Hope on the Horizon
Ubbe’s discovery of North America, or “Vinland,” as it was referred to in Norse sagas, offers a contrasting ending to the chaos and violence in Europe. This storyline is filled with both promise and challenges. Encountering Indigenous populations leads to initial tensions, but ultimately, a fragile peace is established. This exploration of Viking encounters with new cultures is a fascinating element of the finale, highlighting their adaptability and curiosity. While the exact historical accuracy of Ubbe’s voyage is debated, it embodies the Viking spirit of exploration and the potential for a new beginning. The bleak landscape of war-torn Europe is juxtaposed with the vast, untouched wilderness of North America, offering a powerful visual metaphor for hope.
Kattegat’s Future: Peace and Prosperity?
The struggle for control of Kattegat, a recurring theme throughout the series, finds a resolution in “The Last Act.” While the episode doesn’t explicitly detail the new political landscape, it suggests a move towards stability and shared leadership. The final shots of Kattegat suggest a prosperous future, a stark contrast to the constant battles and betrayals that plagued it throughout the series. This resolution implies that the lessons learned throughout the series – particularly the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of unity – have finally been absorbed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Vikings Finale
To further clarify and expand on the ending of Vikings, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Why did Ivar let himself be killed?
Ivar’s death wasn’t purely suicidal. He recognized that his leadership had reached its limit and that King Alfred posed a significant threat. He orchestrated his death to ensure Alfred’s survival, believing Alfred to be the best chance for a stable England and implicitly, a better future for the Viking people in England. Furthermore, he admitted to Hvitserk he was afraid, suggesting the burden of his past caught up with him.
FAQ 2: Did Ubbe actually discover America?
While the show depicts Ubbe reaching North America, its historicity is debated. Norse sagas mention Vinland, and archaeological evidence suggests Viking presence in North America around 1000 AD. However, definitive proof that Ubbe specifically made this voyage is lacking. The show takes creative liberties while drawing inspiration from these historical possibilities.
FAQ 3: What happened to Hvitserk?
Hvitserk survives the battle in Rus’. He converts to Christianity and takes the baptismal name Athelstan, fulfilling a prophecy made to him earlier in the series. This signifies a shift away from his Viking roots and a new path in England.
FAQ 4: What was the significance of Ivar’s last words?
Ivar’s last words to Hvitserk highlighted his long-suppressed vulnerability and fear. This humanized him, breaking down the image of the ruthless, invincible warrior he had cultivated. It showed that even the most hardened individuals are ultimately vulnerable.
FAQ 5: Did the show accurately depict Viking culture in the finale?
The show blends historical accuracy with dramatic license. While it captures the Viking spirit of exploration, warfare, and religious beliefs, it also simplifies and embellishes events for narrative purposes. The portrayal of Viking interactions with Indigenous populations, for instance, is based on limited historical information and involves some artistic interpretation.
FAQ 6: What is the connection between Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla?
Vikings: Valhalla is a sequel series set approximately 100 years after the events of Vikings. While Vikings focuses on Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons, Valhalla features new characters and explores the later stages of the Viking Age. Key historical events from the original series, such as the Great Heathen Army’s invasion of England, have repercussions in Valhalla.
FAQ 7: What are the main themes explored in the last episode?
The main themes are legacy, redemption, and the search for a new beginning. The characters grapple with the impact of their actions and try to forge a future for themselves and their people.
FAQ 8: How did the show handle the portrayal of women in “The Last Act”?
While Lagertha’s death occurred before the finale, the female characters who remain continue to play significant roles. They demonstrate resilience and leadership, contributing to the resolution of conflicts and the shaping of Kattegat’s future. Ingrid’s continued reign after the death of Erik exemplifies this point.
FAQ 9: What was the budget for the final season of Vikings?
While the exact budget for the final season hasn’t been publicly disclosed, Vikings was known for its high production values, especially its elaborate battle scenes and costume design. This suggests that the final season maintained a substantial budget to ensure a visually stunning and compelling conclusion.
FAQ 10: How was “The Last Act” received by critics and fans?
The reception to “The Last Act” was mixed. Some viewers appreciated the resolution of long-standing storylines and the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys. Others found the ending rushed or felt that certain characters deserved more satisfying conclusions. Critics were similarly divided, praising the visual spectacle and the performances but criticizing the pacing and some plot resolutions.
FAQ 11: What are the lasting implications of the Vikings’ voyages, as portrayed in the finale?
The finale suggests that the Vikings’ voyages had a profound impact on both Europe and North America, even if the full extent of their influence isn’t always explicitly shown. They left a legacy of exploration, trade, and cultural exchange, shaping the political and social landscapes of the regions they encountered.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla?
Vikings is available to stream on services such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu (depending on your region). Vikings: Valhalla is a Netflix Original series and can be streamed exclusively on Netflix.