What Year Is The Last Kingdom Set In

The clash of swords, the shield wall, and the simmering tensions between Saxons and Danes—The Last Kingdom transports viewers to a pivotal era in English history. But what year is The Last Kingdom set in, and how does the show align with actual historical events? Understanding the timeline of The Last Kingdom enriches the viewing experience, providing context for the battles, alliances, and betrayals that define Uhtred of Bebbanburg's epic journey.

Decoding the Timeline of The Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom, adapted from Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Stories, is a historical drama series set in the late 9th and early 10th centuries. This was a period of intense conflict in England, marked by the struggle between the Anglo-Saxons and the invading Vikings, primarily Danes. The series begins around the year 866 AD, a time when the Great Heathen Army, a coalition of Norse warriors, landed in East Anglia and began their conquest of England.

The backdrop of the series is the disintegration of the various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms under the onslaught of the Danes. Northumbria, East Anglia, and Mercia fall to Viking control, leaving Wessex as the last major kingdom standing against the invaders. This sets the stage for the rise of Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex, who becomes a central figure in The Last Kingdom. Alfred's vision of a unified England and his determination to defend his kingdom against the Danes are crucial elements of the narrative.

The early seasons of The Last Kingdom focus on the initial years of the Viking invasion and Alfred's struggle to survive and rebuild his forces. Uhtred, the protagonist, is born a Saxon but raised by Danes after being captured as a child. This dual identity places him in a unique position, torn between his Saxon heritage and his loyalty to his Danish foster family. As the series progresses, Uhtred becomes increasingly involved in the political and military conflicts of the time, serving both Saxon and Dane leaders as he navigates the complex landscape of 9th-century England.

Throughout the series, key historical events are depicted, albeit with some dramatic license. The battles of Reading, Ashdown, and Edington, all significant clashes between Alfred's forces and the Danes, are portrayed in vivid detail. The series also delves into the political intrigues and personal relationships that shaped the era, exploring the dynamics between Alfred and his family, as well as the relationships between Saxon and Dane leaders.

As The Last Kingdom moves forward, it covers the reigns of Alfred's successors, Edward the Elder and Aethelstan, and their efforts to continue Alfred's dream of a unified England. The series culminates in the events leading up to the Battle of Brunanburh in 937 AD, a pivotal moment in English history that solidified the Anglo-Saxon kingdom and laid the foundation for a unified England.

A Comprehensive Overview of the Era

The Last Kingdom is primarily set between 866 AD and 937 AD, a period of immense significance in the history of England. This era, often referred to as the Viking Age in England, witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, the clash of cultures, and the forging of a nation. To fully appreciate the timeline of The Last Kingdom, it is essential to understand the key events, figures, and historical context that shaped this tumultuous period.

The Viking Age in England began in the late 8th century with sporadic raids on coastal settlements. However, the arrival of the Great Heathen Army in 866 AD marked a turning point. This large and well-organized Viking force, composed primarily of Danish warriors, aimed to conquer and settle in England, rather than simply raid for plunder. The Great Heathen Army quickly overran Northumbria, capturing the city of York in 866 AD and establishing it as a major Viking stronghold. They then moved south, conquering East Anglia and Mercia, reducing these once-powerful kingdoms to Viking control.

The Kingdom of Wessex, under the leadership of King Alfred, was the only major Anglo-Saxon kingdom to resist the Viking onslaught. Alfred, who ascended to the throne in 871 AD, faced immense challenges in defending his kingdom. He suffered numerous defeats in the early years of his reign, and at one point, was forced to retreat into the marshes of Somerset. However, Alfred persevered, and in 878 AD, he achieved a decisive victory over the Danes at the Battle of Edington. This victory forced the Viking leader Guthrum to negotiate a peace treaty, known as the Treaty of Wedmore, which divided England between the Anglo-Saxons and the Danes.

The eastern and northern parts of England, known as the Danelaw, came under Viking control, while Wessex and the western part of Mercia remained under Anglo-Saxon rule. Alfred used this period of relative peace to strengthen his kingdom, reforming his army, building fortifications, and promoting education and literacy. He also established a legal code, known as the Domboc, and commissioned the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, a historical record of England.

Alfred's death in 899 AD did not mark the end of the struggle against the Vikings. His son, Edward the Elder, continued his father's work, reconquering much of the Danelaw and expanding the Kingdom of Wessex. Edward's reign was marked by a series of military campaigns and strategic alliances, which gradually eroded Viking power in England.

Edward's successor, Aethelstan, completed the unification of England, conquering Northumbria and establishing himself as the first King of all England. Aethelstan's reign culminated in the Battle of Brunanburh in 937 AD, a major victory against a coalition of Viking and Celtic forces. This battle secured Anglo-Saxon dominance over England and laid the foundation for a unified English kingdom.

The Last Kingdom captures the essence of this pivotal era, portraying the complex political landscape, the brutal warfare, and the clash of cultures that defined the Viking Age in England. While the series takes some liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic purposes, it remains a compelling and informative depiction of this important period in English history.

Trends and Latest Developments in Historical Understanding

Recent historical research and archaeological discoveries have continued to refine our understanding of the period depicted in The Last Kingdom. These developments provide deeper insights into the Viking Age in England, shedding new light on the events, people, and cultures portrayed in the series.

One significant trend in historical research is the increasing use of interdisciplinary approaches, combining archaeological evidence, textual sources, and scientific analysis to reconstruct the past. For example, advances in DNA analysis have allowed researchers to trace the genetic ancestry of individuals buried in Viking-era cemeteries, providing insights into the origins and migrations of Viking populations.

Archaeological discoveries continue to unearth new evidence about Viking settlements, trade routes, and military activities in England. Excavations at sites such as Repton, a former Viking winter camp, have revealed valuable information about Viking life and culture. The discovery of mass graves containing the remains of Viking warriors has provided insights into the scale and intensity of the conflicts that took place during this period.

Another trend is the reassessment of traditional narratives about the Viking Age. Historians are increasingly questioning the stereotype of Vikings as purely violent raiders and pillagers, emphasizing their role as traders, explorers, and settlers. Evidence suggests that Vikings established extensive trade networks, connecting England with Scandinavia, continental Europe, and even the Middle East. They also made significant contributions to the development of English society, introducing new technologies, legal practices, and cultural influences.

Popular opinion about the Viking Age has also evolved, influenced in part by the success of shows like The Last Kingdom. There is a growing public interest in Viking history and culture, leading to increased tourism to Viking-related sites and museums. However, it is important to distinguish between popular representations of the Viking Age and the more nuanced and complex picture that emerges from historical research.

Professional insights into The Last Kingdom often highlight the show's strengths and weaknesses in terms of historical accuracy. While the series is praised for its portrayal of the political and military conflicts of the era, it is also criticized for taking liberties with historical facts and for perpetuating certain stereotypes about Vikings and Anglo-Saxons. Nevertheless, The Last Kingdom has played a valuable role in popularizing the history of the Viking Age and sparking interest in this fascinating period.

Tips and Expert Advice for Understanding the Era

To deepen your understanding of the historical context of The Last Kingdom, consider the following tips and expert advice:

Read primary sources: Delve into contemporary accounts of the Viking Age, such as the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle and the writings of Asser, Alfred the Great's biographer. These sources provide firsthand perspectives on the events and people of the time, offering valuable insights into the political, social, and cultural landscape of 9th and 10th-century England. Be aware that these sources may reflect the biases and perspectives of their authors, so it is important to interpret them critically.
Explore secondary sources: Consult scholarly books and articles by historians specializing in the Viking Age. These sources offer in-depth analysis and interpretation of the primary sources, providing a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the period. Look for works that incorporate recent archaeological discoveries and interdisciplinary approaches, as these can offer fresh perspectives on the Viking Age.
Visit museums and historical sites: Immerse yourself in the material culture of the Viking Age by visiting museums and historical sites related to the period. The British Museum in London, the York Archaeological Resource Centre, and the Jorvik Viking Centre in York offer excellent exhibits on Viking history and culture. Visiting historical sites such as Repton and Lindisfarne can provide a tangible connection to the events and people of The Last Kingdom.
Consider the limitations of historical fiction: While The Last Kingdom can be a great introduction to the history of the Viking Age, it is important to remember that it is a work of fiction. The series takes liberties with historical facts for dramatic purposes, and it may perpetuate certain stereotypes about Vikings and Anglo-Saxons. Be aware of these limitations, and use the series as a springboard for further exploration of the historical record.
Engage with online resources: Take advantage of the wealth of online resources available for studying the Viking Age. Websites such as the Viking Society for Northern Research and the Medievalists.net offer access to scholarly articles, primary source translations, and other valuable resources. Online forums and discussion groups can provide opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts and experts, sharing insights and asking questions about the history of The Last Kingdom.

FAQ About The Last Kingdom

Q: How accurate is The Last Kingdom historically?

A: The Last Kingdom is a work of historical fiction, so it blends real historical events and figures with fictional elements. While the series accurately portrays the broad strokes of the Viking Age in England, it takes liberties with historical details for dramatic purposes.

Q: Who was the real Uhtred of Bebbanburg?

A: Uhtred of Bebbanburg is a fictional character created by Bernard Cornwell for The Saxon Stories, the book series on which The Last Kingdom is based. While there were historical figures named Uhtred who ruled Bebbanburg (present-day Bamburgh), the Uhtred in the series is not directly based on any single historical individual.

Q: What is the significance of the Battle of Brunanburh?

A: The Battle of Brunanburh, which takes place towards the end of The Last Kingdom, was a pivotal event in English history. It was a major victory for Aethelstan, the King of England, against a coalition of Viking and Celtic forces. This battle solidified Anglo-Saxon dominance over England and laid the foundation for a unified English kingdom.

Q: What is the Danelaw?

A: The Danelaw was a region of England that came under Viking control in the 9th century. It encompassed the eastern and northern parts of England, including the kingdoms of Northumbria, East Anglia, and parts of Mercia. The Danelaw was governed by Viking laws and customs, and it had a significant impact on the development of English society and culture.

Q: Where can I learn more about the history of The Last Kingdom?

A: To learn more about the history of The Last Kingdom, you can consult primary sources such as the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle and the writings of Asser. You can also explore secondary sources by historians specializing in the Viking Age, visit museums and historical sites related to the period, and engage with online resources such as the Viking Society for Northern Research and Medievalists.net.

Conclusion

The Last Kingdom is set in a transformative era of English history, primarily between 866 AD and 937 AD. This period saw the clash of Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, the rise of Alfred the Great, and the eventual unification of England. While the series takes creative liberties, understanding the historical timeline enriches the viewing experience and provides context for the characters' struggles and triumphs.

To fully appreciate the world of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, delve into historical sources, explore archaeological findings, and remain critical of the line between fact and fiction. By doing so, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped England and the lasting legacy of The Last Kingdom.

What aspects of the historical setting of The Last Kingdom do you find most fascinating? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's continue the discussion!