What Year is The Last Kingdom Set In? Unveiling the Historical Setting of this Epic TV Series
The Last Kingdom: A Historical TV Series
The Last Kingdom is a popular historical drama series that has captivated audiences around the world. Set in a time of conflict and political upheaval, the show transports viewers back to a tumultuous period in British history. But what year is The Last Kingdom set in? Let’s explore the historical setting of this epic TV series.
The Setting: Anglo-Saxon England
The Last Kingdom is primarily set in Anglo-Saxon England during the Viking Age. This era lasted from the late 8th century to the early 11th century. During this time, England was divided into various kingdoms, with constant power struggles between the Anglo-Saxons and the invading Viking forces.
The Historical Context
The Last Kingdom takes place in the late 9th century, specifically during the reign of King Alfred the Great. This period was marked by intense Viking invasions and the resistance led by the Anglo-Saxons.
King Alfred, played by David Dawson in the series, was a pivotal figure during this time. He was known for his military leadership, his efforts to promote education and literature, and his determination to unite the kingdoms of England against the Viking threat.
The Main Characters
One of the central characters in the series is Uhtred of Bebbanburg, portrayed by Alexander Dreymon. Uhtred, a fictional character, is a young nobleman who is captured and raised by Vikings. As the story unfolds, Uhtred finds himself torn between his loyalties to both the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings.
Other notable characters include Brida, Uhtred’s childhood friend and fellow Viking captive, and Guthrum, a Viking warlord who becomes a key antagonist throughout the series.
The Historical Accuracy
While The Last Kingdom is a work of fiction, it is known for its attention to historical detail. The show’s creators have made efforts to accurately portray the customs, clothing, and warfare of the time period.
However, it’s important to remember that artistic liberties are often taken in order to create a compelling narrative. Some characters and events may be fictionalized or altered for dramatic purposes.
The Last Kingdom: A Journey Through History
The Last Kingdom offers viewers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Anglo-Saxon England and experience the struggles and triumphs of the time. Through its gripping storytelling and compelling characters, the series brings this fascinating period of history to life.
So, if you’re a fan of historical dramas or simply interested in learning more about the Viking Age and the Anglo-Saxon period, The Last Kingdom is definitely a series worth watching.
Step into the world of Uhtred, King Alfred, and the battles that shaped the destiny of England. Discover the dramatic events that unfolded during this tumultuous time and gain a deeper understanding of the historical context behind this epic TV series.
FAQs
1. What Year is The Last Kingdom Set In?
The Last Kingdom is set during the Late 9th and Early 10th centuries A.D.
2. Which specific historical events are shown in The Last Kingdom?
The Last Kingdom showcases the Viking invasions of England, the formation of the Kingdom of England, and the conflicts between the Saxons and Danes.
3. Is The Last Kingdom based on real historical events?
Yes, The Last Kingdom is based on Bernard Cornwell’s historical novel series called “The Saxon Stories” and takes inspiration from real historical events.
4. Who were the main historical figures portrayed in The Last Kingdom?
The Last Kingdom features historical figures like Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, and his son Edward the Elder, as well as various Viking leaders such as Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons.
5. Where is The Last Kingdom set?
The Last Kingdom is primarily set in England, specifically in the regions of Wessex, Mercia, and Northumbria.
6. How accurate is the portrayal of historical events in The Last Kingdom?
While The Last Kingdom takes some artistic liberties, it strives to provide a reasonably accurate depiction of the historical events and context of the time.
7. What were the primary conflicts during the time period depicted in The Last Kingdom?
The primary conflicts during this time period were the Viking invasions of England and the power struggles between the Saxons and Danes for control over various parts of the country.
8. How long did the Viking invasions of England last?
The Viking invasions of England lasted for several decades, from the late 8th century until the early 10th century A.D.
9. What impact did the events depicted in The Last Kingdom have on England’s history?
The events depicted in The Last Kingdom, such as Alfred the Great’s resistance against the Vikings and the eventual unification of England, played a crucial role in shaping the future of the country.
10. Is The Last Kingdom a historically accurate TV series?
While The Last Kingdom takes some creative liberties, it generally strives to portray the historical context and events of the time period with reasonable accuracy. It is important to remember that it is a work of fiction based on historical inspiration.
