The Last Kingdom | Series 2 Trailer

The Last Kingdom (Season 2) (2017) continues the epic historical saga based on Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories novels, which explores the tumultuous period of early England’s formation during the Viking Age. This season, adapted from The Lords of the North and Sword Song, follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon) as he grapples with loyalty, vengeance, and his own identity in a divided land.

Set in the late 9th century, Season 2 picks up with Uhtred’s continued struggle between his Saxon heritage and his Viking upbringing. After losing his family and home, Uhtred is determined to reclaim his ancestral lands of Bebbanburg, taken from him as a child. However, his journey is fraught with conflict as he navigates the complex alliances between Saxons and Danes. Uhtred serves under King Alfred of Wessex (David Dawson), whose ambition to unite the kingdoms of England clashes with Uhtred’s own personal desires.

One of the key storylines involves Uhtred’s mission to liberate Guthred (Thure Lindhardt), a Christian slave-turned-king in Northumbria. Uhtred’s loyalty to Guthred initially seems promising, but the relationship grows tense as political and religious tensions mount. Uhtred’s journey to reclaim his identity and land brings him into conflict with established powers, testing his loyalty and integrity.

Another storyline focuses on the Danish warrior siblings, Erik and Sigefrid (portrayed by Christian Hillborg and Björn Bengtsson), who seek to establish control over parts of England. Their brutal tactics and ambitions for conquest are in direct opposition to King Alfred’s vision of a unified England, bringing further instability to an already fragile peace.

Throughout the season, Uhtred faces numerous personal and moral challenges, including a deepening bond with warrior Brida (Emily Cox) and healer Hild (Eva Birthistle), both of whom play important roles in his journey. These characters help humanize Uhtred, revealing his vulnerabilities and conflicting loyalties as he forges alliances and makes sacrifices.

The series is known for its intense and realistic battle sequences, and Season 2 raises the stakes, with larger-scale conflicts and detailed choreography that highlight the brutal reality of the time. The production design and costumes contribute to the show’s historical authenticity, immersing viewers in the harsh world of 9th-century England.

A recurring theme in The Last Kingdom is the conflict between Christianity and Paganism, reflected in the clash of cultures between the Saxons and Danes. Uhtred, raised by Vikings but born a Saxon, embodies this struggle as he navigates both worlds, often finding himself at odds with religious and cultural expectations from both sides. His journey symbolizes the broader conflict between tradition and progress, loyalty and identity, as he seeks to carve out his own path.

Season 2 also continues to explore the character of King Alfred, portrayed with depth and nuance by David Dawson. Alfred’s vision of a united England is tested by Uhtred’s impulsive nature and independent spirit, as well as by the constant threat of Viking invasions. The complex, often tense, relationship between Alfred and Uhtred is one of the most compelling dynamics of the series, providing both ideological and personal conflicts.