When Netflix’s hugely popularVikings: Valhallaended, it left me dissatisfied by some of its loose ends.
WhileValhallarepeatedVikingslack of historical accuracy, it contained many subtle nods that only history buffs would pick up on.
One of these centered around Earl Godwin, Canute’s scheming advisor.
Custom image by Yailin Chacon
Along with his heirs,Godwin had a major role to play in an important period of English history.
I became fascinated by this character ever since the shocking scene whereGodwin killed King Edmund.
In the penultimate episode, Canute divided his empire among his heirs.
Set over a thousand years ago in the early 11th century, Vikings: Valhalla chronicles the heroic adventures of some of the most famous Vikings ever chronicled. As tensions between the Vikings and the English royals reach a bloody breaking point and as the Vikings themselves clash over their conflicting Christian and pagan beliefs, these three Vikings begin an epic journey that will take them across oceans and through battlefields, from Kattegat to England and beyond, as they fight for survival and glory.
Godwin’s fortuitous marriage to Gytha made their sons, Harold and Tostig, part of the royal lineage.
HadVikings: Valhallacontinued, we would have seen the House of Godwin rise into further prominence.
By the mid-11th century, Godwin and his extended family were the most prominent nobles in England.
The final season introduced several seemingly inconsequential side characters.
Nonetheless,Harold’s reign was short-lived.
This historical context adds another layer toVikings: Valhalla, knowing thatGodwin’s ambitions ultimately ended in tragedy.
Set over a thousand years ago in the early 11th century, Vikings: Valhalla chronicles the heroic adventures of some of the most famous Vikings ever chronicled. As tensions between the Vikings and the English royals reach a bloody breaking point and as the Vikings themselves clash over their conflicting Christian and pagan beliefs, these three Vikings begin an epic journey that will take them across oceans and through battlefields, from Kattegat to England and beyond, as they fight for survival and glory.
Why Did Vikings: Valhalla End After Season 3?
Godwin captured the young prince and turned him over to Harefoot, who had him brutally killed.
Minor characters like Godwin also received a satisfying conclusion.
His final betrayal of Emma underscored his self-serving commitment to"always backing the winner."
Vikings Valhalladid an admirable job at conveying the complex power struggles of 11th-century Europe.
It’s understandable thatValhallaended where it did.
Expecting the series to cover the intricacies of early English history was a big ask.
