Is The Last Kingdom based on true story? Breaking down Fact vs Fiction in the film

Whether The Last Kingdom is a true story or not is a question that often surfaces among viewers about the historical drama series.

The show, adapted from Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Stories, is inspired by historical elements, following King Alfred the Great's ambitions to unite England. The fact and fiction create a compelling story about a formative period in English history. The Last Kingdom respects its characters' historical context while portraying their stories.

The Last Kingdom uses Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon-Danish hybrid, to depict ninth- and tenth-century England. It takes place when Denmark invaded England and shattered its kingdoms.

The story explores Uhtred's complex identity and allegiance through this era's wars and alliances. His rise from Saxon nobleman to Danish warrior reflects the series' rich history and cultural and political upheaval.

The official synopsis of the show as per Rotten Tomatoes,

"As a child, Uhtred witnessed his father being killed and the Saxon army defeated by invading troops. Danish warlord Earl Ragnar captured Uhtred and raised him in a Danish camp alongside fellow captive Brida, a sharp-tongued girl."

"Years later, Uhtred is a valiant warrior who is dealt another tragic blow when his home is deliberately set on fire, killing his surrogate family, including Ragnar."

Further, it says,

"Now exiled -- alone except for Brida by his side -- he vows to avenge Ragnar's death and reclaim his homeland. But, he must choose between his birth country and the people who raised him. If he is going to help birth a new nation and ultimately recapture his ancestral land he must walk dangerous path between both sides."

Uhtred's story is a personal and grand tale of loyalty, identity, and ambition. After losing his ancestral home and his adoptive Viking family, his quest for revenge and restoration sees him align with Alfred the Great. Together, they aspire to repel the Danes and forge a united England—a vision only fully realized long after Alfred's time.

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The Last Kingdom: Historical accuracy

The central character of The Last Kingdom, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, represents a fictionalized version of historical figures and events. His character distantly reflects Uhtred the Bold, a later Anglo-Saxon ruler of Northumbria. However, the series stylizes his life and adventures to reflect generic Anglo-Saxon and Viking conflicts rather than historical events.

Alfred the Great is depicted in The Last Kingdom in a relatively accurate way in terms of his goals and the socio-political context of his reign. Alfred’s historical record as the king who dreamt of a unified England aligns with his portrayal in the series.

His strategic and diplomatic skills, especially in dealings with the Danes, are well-documented and are effectively captured in the series. The show’s presentation of his character does justice to his legacy as a wise and resilient leader.

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Bebbanburg, commonly known as Bamburgh

Bebbanburg, now known as Bamburgh, truly was an Anglo-Saxon stronghold in what was then Northumbria. The series accurately portrays it as a strategic location. The show's narrative centers on Anglo-Saxon politics' turbulent and violent conflict over this fortification.

The series uses historical figures in dramatized interactions and fictional subplots. Figures like Aethelwold, Guthrum, and Aelhswith did exist and played crucial roles during this period.

While not perfect, The Last Kingdom's depiction of them helps ground the show in its historical setting and gives viewers a taste of the era's complex political and social dynamics.

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A historical portrayal of 9th century England

As for the broader historical setting, The Last Kingdom admirably recreates the look and feel of 9th-century England. The landscapes, costumes, and societal structures reflect considerable research and dedication to bringing this pivotal period of English history to life.

The conflict between the Christian Saxons and pagan Danes, central to the series, mirrors the cultural and religious clashes that occurred during the era. Other than the historical truths, this narrative largely serves to dramatize the struggles and transformations that defined early medieval England.

While not entirely inaccurate, it offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval England's struggles and changes. As the series ends, fans say goodbye to a beloved story and an engaging exploration of England's legendary past.

The Last Kingdom is available for streaming on Netflix US.