A few interesting tidbits about them:
1.) Vikings were conquerors.
The Vikings invaded several countries such as the Great Britain, Ireland, Iceland, Scotland , and even reach the northern seas to raid some parts of Canada. Some settlements rooted from their tribes still exist up to this generation, especially ones in Scotland and Great Britain.
2.) For some time, they were best ship builders and seafarers in the world.
Their fast longships withstood gales and thunderstorms of the stormy seas, enabling them to raid on the coastal monasteries and settlements of the British islands, West-Europe and North America. The crew of the longships consisted of at most 60 men, who were both oarsmen and a warrior.
3.) Vikings were one of the fiercest warriors that ever existed.
They were known to be brute, pagan warriors of the North. During the era of the Vikings, they were feared all over Europe.
4.) The mighty Thor is one of their Gods.
The hammer-wielding God is among the many Gods worshipped by the Vikings before they converted to Christianity.
Basically these characteristics were incorporated in the series. As expected from History Channel who have managed to air factual accounts on various historical events, Vikings did not missed the spot regarding its details. The series portrayed how the Vikings lived and included some of the tribes’ traditions and beliefs, such as their pagan beliefs in their Gods.
Vikings depicts a fictionalized story of real-life chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel). In the series, he was a farmer who thirsts to explore the West and obtain massive treasures in the unknown lands. Unable to gain the support of the local chieftain, Earl Haraldson (Gabriel Byrne), Ragnar enlists the help of Floki (Gustaf Skarsgard) to build a new ship that could withstand a journey to the stormy seas.
As Ragnar sets out to his journey, conflicts arise as Earl becomes more wary with the challenge imposed by Ragnar over his authority and his people’s loyalty to him.
Set aside the bloody combats, conflicts and power struggles, the series also follows the relationship of Ragnar with his family, particularly his strong-willed wife, shield-maiden Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick ) and his impulsive brother, Rollo (Clive Standen).
Vikings did not disappoint with its well-rounded plot, it evoked a balanced story that is filled with action but was not completely overwhelmed by that genre. There were scenes that frequently showed Rangar’s ferocity in the battlefield however, a number of them also pictured him to be a devoted father to his children, son Bjorn (Nathan O’Toole) and daughter, Gyda (Ruby O’ Leary).
In addition, the casting was remarkable with the actors giving a distinct touch to the characters they portrayed. My particular favorites were that of Fimmel’s portrayal of Ragnar and Winnick’s of Lagertha, as they delivered a strong performance that gave justice to the steely persona of the couple.
Ragnar with his wife Lagertha
The viewers will also be enthralled with cinematography as the series was shot on the beautiful country sides of Ireland and Norway, only to add more authenticity to it.
Overall, Vikings brings in to the table a story that will impress those who like historical dramas or even those who just seek to watch an action-packed series. It shows an important piece of history in platform that is informative without losing its value for entertainment.
The Vikings may have ceased to exist thousands of years ago, but they truly are important figures in our history.
When In Manila, don’t fail to watch Vikings on the History Channel.
Catch its first episode on
September 29, 2013 (Sunday),
10:00 P.M at the History Channel
Vikings is brought by the History Channel and A+E Network and History Channel
If you are interested in historical and informative programs, you can log on to History Channel’s official site:
https://www.historyasia.com/home.html
Watch and Delve Into the Fierce World of Vikings
