This Netflix original series serves as both continuation and evolution of the Vikings saga, transporting viewers to the 11th century as Norse dominance wanes across Europe. Created by Jeb Stuart, the show builds upon Michael Hirst’s original vision while establishing its own identity through meticulous historical reconstruction and visceral storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the Viking Age’s twilight years, Valhalla explores the collision between pagan traditions and Christian expansion through the eyes of legendary figures.
Chronological Continuity
Vikings: Valhalla is set approximately 100 years after the events of the original Vikings series, bridging the gap between the legendary era of Ragnar Lothbrok and the twilight of the Viking Age. While not a direct sequel, it functions as a spiritual successor, carrying forward themes of exploration, warfare, and cultural upheaval.
Narrative and Thematic Links
- Legacy of Ragnar Lothbrok
- Though Ragnar is long dead, his myth still looms large. Characters reference him as a legendary figure, reinforcing his impact on Viking culture.
- Ivar the Boneless’ legacy is subtly acknowledged through the political landscape of Kattegat, which remains a key location.
- Kattegat as a Symbolic Hub
- The city of Kattegat, central to the original series, reappears but has evolved under Christian influence, mirroring historical shifts.
- The Great Hall and fjords maintain visual continuity, though the architecture reflects a more developed settlement.
- Religious Conflict
- The original Vikings introduced the clash between Norse paganism and Christianity, which Valhalla intensifies.
- King Olaf Haraldsson (a major figure in Valhalla) represents the violent Christianization seen earlier with characters like Athelstan and King Ecbert.
- Exploration and Expansion
- Ragnar’s obsession with England and Francia set the stage for Valhalla’s focus on Viking raids in Britain.
- Leif Erikson’s voyage to Vinland (North America) parallels Ragnar’s curiosity beyond Scandinavia.
Differences in Tone and Scale
| Aspect | Original Vikings | Vikings: Valhalla |
|---|---|---|
| Time Period | 8th–9th century (Viking Golden Age) | 11th century (Decline of Viking Age) |
| Scope | Family saga (Ragnar & sons) | Global conflicts (England, Norway, Byzantium) |
| Religion | Paganism dominant, Christianity rising | Christianity overtaking paganism |
| Warfare | Smaller-scale raids, shield walls | Large-scale battles, sieges |
| Characters | Semi-legendary (Ragnar, Lagertha) | Historical (Leif, Harald, Freydís) |
Production Connections
- Filming Locations: Both series were shot in Ireland (Ashford Studios), maintaining visual continuity.
- Combat Style: Valhalla retains the brutal, grounded fight choreography of the original, though with more refined cinematography.
- Music & Atmosphere: The soundtrack echoes the original’s Norse themes but incorporates new motifs reflecting the changing era.
Audience Perspective
- Fans of the original will recognize echoes of Ragnar’s legacy in Leif’s leadership and Freydís’ defiance.
- However, Valhalla stands on its own by focusing on documented historical events (St. Brice’s Day Massacre, Norman Conquest prelude) rather than legend.
Vikings: Valhalla Production Details
- Development: Conceived as a spiritual successor rather than direct sequel
- Locations: County Wicklow landscapes double for Scandinavia, England, and beyond
- Design: Costume department handcrafted 3,000+ period-accurate garments
- Combat Training: Cast underwent months of weapon drills with historical consultants
Historical Foundations
The series weaves together multiple strands of Norse history:
Key Events Depicted
- St. Brice’s Day Massacre (1002 CE) – Saxon extermination of Danes
- Battle of London Bridge (1014 CE) – Olaf Haraldsson’s assault
- Vinland Sagas – Leif Erikson’s transatlantic voyages
Character Historical Basis
| Character | Historical Figure | Known Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Leif Erikson | Explorer | First European in North America |
| Harald Sigurdsson | Harald Hardrada | Last great Viking king |
| Freydís Eiríksdóttir | Warrior woman | Vinland expedition leader |
Combat Authenticity
The series’ fight choreography blends historical techniques with cinematic flair:
Weaponry
- Dane Axes: Two-handed implements requiring extensive training
- Seax Knives: Utility blades doubling as close-quarter weapons
- Round Shields: Lime wood constructions with iron bosses
Tactical Depictions
- Shield wall formations
- Naval boarding actions
- Single combat rituals
Cultural Representation
The production team consulted with Scandinavian historians to portray:
Religious Tensions
- Pagan rituals at Uppsala
- Christian conversion pressures
- Syncretic belief systems
Daily Life
- Thing assemblies
- Shipbuilding techniques
- Textile production
Critical Reception
Praise
- Gustavsson’s portrayal of Freydís as complex warrior
- Battle sequence cinematography
- Norse language dialogue
Controversies
- Timeline compression of events spanning decades
- Speculative character relationships
- Archaeological accuracy of settlements
Legacy and Impact
Beyond entertainment, the series has:
- Revived academic interest in lesser-known Norse figures
- Inspired museum exhibitions on Viking material culture
- Influenced contemporary medievalist fiction
Where to watch:
All episodes stream exclusively on Netflix, with 4K HDR presentation enhancing the sweeping cinematography. The complete series box set includes extensive historical commentary tracks.
This examination reveals Valhalla as both worthy successor to its predecessor and significant historical drama in its own right, offering viewers an immersive window into the Viking world’s final golden age.
Watch the trailer:
