Lagertha, the shieldmaiden and queen, met her tragic end in Season 6, Episode 6, “Death and the Serpent,” of the History Channel’s Vikings. Her demise marked a pivotal moment in the series, impacting the fates of those who survived her.
The Shieldmaiden’s Swan Song: Context and Circumstances
Lagertha, portrayed by the talented Katheryn Winnick, was undoubtedly one of Vikings‘ most beloved characters. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering loyalty captivated audiences worldwide. Her journey from a farmer’s wife to a powerful ruler was fraught with challenges, betrayals, and immense personal loss. The events leading up to her death are crucial to understanding the weight of that moment.
Lagertha had chosen to retire from the life of a warrior and sought solace in farming. However, her legendary status and her desire to protect the innocent drew her back into conflict. She defended her village from bandits led by White Hair, demonstrating her continued prowess in battle, although at a significant cost. Mortally wounded and weakened by the fight, Lagertha made her way to Kattegat, unknowingly fulfilling a prophecy.
The prophecy, delivered by the Seer seasons earlier, foretold Lagertha’s death at the hands of one of Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons. This prophecy hung over the character throughout her life and ultimately came to pass in the most unexpected way. In Kattegat, she encountered a hallucinating Hvitserk, Ragnar’s son, who, under the influence of intense drug use and psychological turmoil, mistook her for a serpent and fatally stabbed her.
The Significance of Her Death
Lagertha’s death was not merely a plot device; it was a carefully constructed narrative culmination of her character arc. It served as a catalyst for significant events that unfolded in the remaining episodes of the final season. The prophecy’s fulfillment added a layer of fatalism to the Vikings universe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of fate and free will.
The consequences of her death rippled through the lives of her loved ones, particularly Bjorn Ironside and her other allies. It sparked a chain of vengeance and political maneuvering, reshaping the power dynamics of Scandinavia. Lagertha’s passing served as a stark reminder of the brutal realities of the Viking Age and the fragility of life, even for the most formidable warriors.
Lagertha’s Legacy
Despite her death, Lagertha’s legacy as a shieldmaiden, a leader, and a mother continues to inspire fans. She shattered traditional gender roles and proved that women could be just as strong, strategic, and courageous as men. Her name is synonymous with strength, independence, and unwavering determination.
Her influence extended beyond the fictional world of Vikings. She became a symbol of female empowerment and a reminder that history often overlooks the contributions of women. Lagertha’s story continues to resonate with audiences who admire her fighting spirit and her unwavering commitment to her people.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Lagertha’s Demise
Here are some frequently asked questions that further explore the circumstances and implications surrounding Lagertha’s death in Vikings.
What exactly was the prophecy concerning Lagertha’s death?
The Seer prophesized that Lagertha would be killed by one of Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons. This prophecy loomed over Lagertha for many years, influencing her decisions and creating a sense of inevitable doom. While many expected Ivar the Boneless to be the one to carry out the act, it was the tormented Hvitserk who unknowingly fulfilled the prophecy.
Why was Hvitserk in such a state when he killed Lagertha?
Hvitserk was struggling with severe addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after witnessing and participating in the atrocities of war, particularly those committed by Ivar the Boneless. He was using mind-altering substances, and in a delirious state, he hallucinated a serpent, which he mistook for Lagertha.
Did Lagertha know her death was coming?
There’s evidence to suggest that Lagertha sensed her end was near. She had spoken about her mortality and seemed resigned to her fate. Her decision to travel to Kattegat, despite her weakened condition, could be interpreted as a conscious or subconscious acceptance of the prophecy.
How did Bjorn Ironside react to Lagertha’s death?
Bjorn Ironside was devastated by his mother’s death. He immediately sought revenge on Hvitserk, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Lagertha’s death fueled his determination to become King of Norway and solidify his legacy. It was a motivating factor in his subsequent battles and political decisions.
What kind of funeral did Lagertha receive?
Lagertha received a grand Viking funeral befitting her status as a queen and a legendary warrior. Her body was placed on a burning ship, along with treasures and symbolic items, and set ablaze, sending her spirit to Valhalla. The funeral was a poignant and visually stunning tribute to her life.
Was Lagertha’s death necessary for the story?
Whether Lagertha’s death was necessary is subjective. From a narrative perspective, it created significant plot points, fueled character development, and added a sense of realism to the Vikings universe. However, many fans felt her death was too tragic and unfair, especially considering the circumstances.
Could Lagertha have prevented her death?
Given the prophecy and the circumstances, it’s debatable whether Lagertha could have ultimately prevented her death. While she was a skilled warrior, fate and the actions of others played a crucial role in her demise. Her weakened state after the battle with White Hair made her more vulnerable.
What impact did Lagertha’s death have on Kattegat?
Lagertha’s death threw Kattegat into turmoil. It created a power vacuum and intensified the political struggles among the remaining characters. Her death served as a turning point in the final season, leading to further conflicts and betrayals.
How did the showrunners justify killing off such a beloved character?
The showrunners stated that Lagertha’s death was always part of the overall plan for her character arc. They wanted to explore themes of fate, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of violence. They believed her death served a greater purpose in the narrative, even though it was difficult for fans to accept.
What were some of the fan reactions to Lagertha’s death?
Fan reactions were overwhelmingly emotional. Many were heartbroken and outraged by the circumstances of her death. Some felt it was disrespectful to her character, while others understood it from a narrative perspective. Social media was flooded with tributes to Lagertha and expressions of grief.
What is Katheryn Winnick doing since leaving Vikings?
Katheryn Winnick has continued to act in both television and film. She starred in the ABC series Big Sky and has been involved in various other projects. She also remains a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and continues to be an inspiration to her fans.
How does Lagertha’s legacy continue in Vikings: Valhalla?
While Lagertha does not appear in Vikings: Valhalla, her legacy is felt through the actions and ideologies of other shieldmaidens and rulers. The series acknowledges the impact she had on the Viking world and the inspiration she provides to future generations of female warriors. Her story is a reminder of the strength and resilience of Viking women throughout history.