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- Ragnar Lothbrok’s Descendants Continued to Raid and Invade Europe
- Ragnar Lothbrok’s Relative Was the First Viking King of England
- Cnut and His Family Carried on Ragnar Lothbrok’s Legacy
As a history enthusiast with a particular fascination for the Viking era, I’ve spent countless hours delving into the tales of legendary figures like Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants. And let me tell you, the lives of these brave warriors were nothing short of remarkable!
Over a period of eight seasons, the gripping saga of Ragnar Lothbrok and his offspring unfolded in “Vikings,” as they ventured and dominated England, Ireland, and certain regions of Europe. In the commencement of the acclaimed spin-off series, “Vikings: Valhalla,” we are transported a century ahead. At this point, the Vikings’ reach has spread to the Mediterranean, and they have advanced into France and England. The major events of these three seasons in “Vikings: Valhalla” revolve around these expansions.
In the saga of “Vikings,” Ragnar Lothbrok assumed the role of both protagonist and antagonist. He embarked on adventures, plundered lands, and established a lineage through numerous offspring. Several of Ragnar’s descendants carry on his legacy in “Vikings: Valhalla.” Though the futures of these characters in the latter series are undisclosed, their roots can be traced back to the initial installment.
Ragnar Lothbrok’s Descendants Continued to Raid and Invade Europe
In the show “Vikings,” Ragnar Lothbrok had many wives and relationships that resulted in several sons, including Ivar the Boneless, Ubbe, Bjorn Iron-Side, and Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye. These offspring sought to uphold their father’s legacy. Notably, Bjorn Iron-Side sailed with Ragnar and his brother Rollo as they attacked Paris. Ivar the Boneless and Ubba were part of the Great Heathen Army that invaded and ruled over East Anglia starting from 865 CE.
During the Viking era, around 100 years after Ragnar’s time, the influence of him and his offspring in England, Ireland, France, and other regions paved the way for enduring Viking settlements. As monarch of both Sweden and Denmark, Ragnar bequeathed his strong lineage to his sons. However, by this period, all the territories that had connections with Ragnar had experienced multiple rulers.
In the Icelandic tales, it is mentioned that those monarchs were descendants of Ragnar’s bloodline. Sigurd Snake-in-Eye succeeded as King of Denmark and is known to be Harthacanut’s father. Harald Bluetooth was Harthacanut’s son and the forefather of Swein Forkbeard.
Ragnar Lothbrok’s Relative Was the First Viking King of England
In England, the Danelaw region in the north and the Anglo-Saxon territories in the south coexist, although their connection is tenuous. During Season 1 of “Vikings: Valhalla,” Cnut, an ancestor of Ragnar in terms of blood and spirit, challenges Edmund Ironside outside London to engage in battle from beyond its borders.
Vikings: Valhalla may demonstrate Cnut’s position as the first Viking King of England, but when it comes to history, that title falls to Cnut’s father, Swein Forkbeard. Swein was the King of Denmark and the King of Norway and had a lineage that held the English throne for five short weeks in late 1013 and 1014 CE.
From 986 to 1014 CE, Swein held the throne as King of Denmark. During this time, he additionally governed Norway. Following Swein’s demise, his brother Olaf II Haraldsson assumed power in Denmark. In England, between 1014 and 1016 CE, Cnut spent two productive years amassing authority. Eventually, the English nobles acknowledged him as their monarch in the year 1016 CE.
Cnut and His Family Carried on Ragnar Lothbrok’s Legacy
In the series “Vikings: Valhalla,” Cnut’s intricate past takes center stage. Born of Viking royalty, including Ragnar and other legendary warriors, Cnut is a significant figure in both Scandinavia and England. However, it’s in England where he truly showcases his strength. In the storyline, Cnut demolishes London Bridge (an event not based on history), sending a clear message to Edmund Ironside that he intends to make England his dominion.
After Cnut ascends the English throne, he enters into a marriage with Emma of Normandy, who shares Viking lineage. This strategic union brings Cnut closer to King Aethelred II’s sons Edward and Alfred, strengthening his position. Cnut is a forceful and determined leader, embodying the legacy of Ragnar in his actions.
Cnut follows in Ragnar’s footsteps by preparing his sons for leadership roles. He has two sons from his first marriage, Swein Knutsson and Harold Harefoot. In “Vikings: Valhalla,” Svein ruled Norway with his grandfather, Svein Forkbeard, acting as regent before assuming the throne himself when he came of age. Historically, however, Svein governed alongside his mother, Aelfgifu, serving as regents. Unfortunately, their leadership was met with opposition from the populace, leading to their exile. Both Svein and his father passed away in 1035 CE.
Harold Harefoot assumed the throne of England following Cnut’s demise in 1035 CE, initially sharing power with his half-brother Harthacanut. However, Harthacanut was then in Denmark and ruling there, allowing Harold to seize control of the entire English kingdom. He reigned until his death in 1040 CE. Later on, Harthacanut – the son of Emma and Cnut – came into power in England, governing till his passing in 1042 CE.
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2024-07-25 00:31