The Historical Context
To fully appreciate The Last Kingdom, it is essential to understand the backdrop of the story. The series is set during the reign of King Alfred the Great of Wessex, and its plot revolves around Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon lord raised by Vikings, navigating the complex political and military landscape of England. Season 4 focuses on the power struggles between the Saxons and the Vikings, the formation of England as a unified kingdom, and the rise of influential leaders like Alfred, Uhtred, and others.
In real history, the period around the late 9th and early 10th centuries was marked by significant Viking raids and invasions, with key battles like the Battle of Edington (878) where Alfred secured a victory over the Vikings and laid the groundwork for the future Anglo-Saxon dominance of England. The Vikings had previously established a stronghold in Northumbria, and their control over much of what is now England, including East Anglia and Mercia, led to the division of the kingdom into territories ruled by both Saxon and Viking forces.
Season 4 Plot Overview
Season 4 picks up with Uhtred in a period of great personal turmoil. After the death of King Alfred, his son Edward ascends the throne of Wessex, but his reign is fraught with challenges, both from within his own kingdom and from the looming threat of Viking conquest. One of the key themes of the season is the conflict between the Saxons’ desire for unity and the disintegration of their alliances, especially with Uhtred caught in the middle.
Uhtred’s primary goal in this season is to reclaim his ancestral home, Bebbanburg, which has been overtaken by his treacherous uncle, and this quest plays a central role throughout the season. His relationships with both the Saxons and the Vikings are put to the test, particularly as he finds himself at odds with key figures like King Edward, who is now becoming more assertive in his efforts to consolidate power.
Another central plotline involves the rise of the Viking warlord Sigtryggr, who brings new challenges to the Saxons. His quest for power and his complex relationship with Uhtred adds a layer of depth to the political and military tensions. Meanwhile, the lingering presence of Ivar the Boneless, who has been a thorn in the side of the Saxons since the previous seasons, adds further tension to the already volatile situation. shutdown123