The Last Kingdom is a historical fiction television series that has garnered a massive fan base since its release in 2015. The show is based on the Saxon Stories novels by Bernard Cornwell, which chronicle the events of 9th and 10th century England during the Viking invasions.
One of the key characters in the series is Athelstan, who is played by Harry Gilby in the final season. In this article, we will delve into who is Athelstan in The Last Kingdom and explore his role.
Who Is Athelstan in The Last Kingdom and Is He Based on a Real King
Athelstan’s journey in The Last Kingdom begins in Season 4 when Winchester is attacked by Viking warlord Sigtryggr. He is taken hostage alongside his grandmother Lady Aelswith and the young Ethelred. However, by the end of the season, Athelstan is reunited with his mother Ecgwynn and placed under the care of the show’s main protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg.
In Season 5, Uhtred is tasked with teaching Athelstan how to become a fearless warrior and leader. If the show stays true to the original source material, fans will see Uhtred prepare for an older Athelstan to take the throne of Mercia and Wessex, should his father Edward pass away.
Athelstan’s character in The Last Kingdom is based on the real-life historical figure Athelstan of Wessex, who became the first king of all England in the 10th century. In the series, Athelstan is portrayed as a wise and learned monk who becomes the advisor and friend of King Alfred of Wessex.
His counsel is valued by many of the other characters in the series, and his bravery and intelligence are evident throughout.
As Athelstan grows older in the series, fans see him mature and develop into a leader. He becomes a key player in the fight against the Viking invasions of England, embodying the spirit of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty.
In the books by Bernard Cornwell that the series is based on, Athelstan’s role becomes even more significant. He becomes a military leader and is instrumental in the battles against the Viking armies. In the books, Athelstan’s fate is left open-ended, leaving fans to speculate about what might happen to him.
Is Athelstan in The Last Kingdom the Same as Athelstan in Vikings?
In The Last Kingdom, Athelstan is the son of King Edward of Wessex and his first wife Ecgwynn. He is a key player in the series, particularly during Seasons 4 and 5, and is destined to become the future king of Wessex and Mercia.
As the series progresses, Athelstan matures and develops into a wise and brave leader, embodying the spirit of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty.
In Vikings, Athelstan is a monk from Northumbria who becomes the advisor and friend of Ragnar Lothbrok, one of the main characters in the show. He is portrayed as a learned and compassionate man who is torn between his faith and his loyalty to Ragnar.
Athelstan’s character in Vikings is much different from his counterpart in The Last Kingdom, as he is not a member of a royal family and does not have aspirations to become a king.
Despite these differences, there are some similarities between the two characters. In both shows, Athelstan is a symbol of Anglo-Saxon culture and a bridge between the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings. He is also a figure of great moral authority, providing guidance and wisdom to those around him.
Another similarity between the two characters is their eventual fate. Both Athelstans meet tragic ends, although the circumstances surrounding their deaths are vastly different.
In The Last Kingdom, Athelstan’s fate is left open-ended, leaving fans to speculate about what might happen to him. In Vikings, Athelstan is killed by Floki, a friend turned enemy, in a brutal act of violence.
Conclusion
Overall, Athelstan is a crucial character in The Last Kingdom, and his storyline is an essential component of the show’s narrative. While his character in the series is fictional, it is based on the real-life historical figure Athelstan of Wessex, who was a significant figure in English history. Fans of the show can appreciate the depth of research and historical accuracy that went into
Lacoon hopes you enjoy this article!
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