Vikings Season 5 Episode 17: Review, Recap & Analysis

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into Vikings Season 5 Episode 17, "The Most Terrible Thing." This episode is a real turning point, packed with betrayals, strategic maneuvers, and a whole lot of Viking drama. We're going to break down all the key moments, analyze the characters' decisions, and explore what it all means for the rest of the season. Get ready for a wild ride!

Storyline Breakdown

"The Most Terrible Thing" throws us right into the thick of the conflict between the sons of Ragnar Lothbrok. Ivar the Boneless, ever the cunning strategist, continues to consolidate his power in Kattegat, while Bjorn Ironside and Lagertha rally their forces to take back their homeland. This episode showcases the escalating tension and the heavy toll the war is taking on everyone involved. We see alliances tested, loyalties questioned, and the true cost of ambition laid bare.

Ivar's Reign of Terror: Ivar's rule in Kattegat is becoming increasingly tyrannical. He uses fear and intimidation to maintain control, and his paranoia is reaching new heights. He sees enemies everywhere, even among his closest allies. This leads to some brutal and shocking moments, highlighting the darkness that has consumed him. His relationship with Hvitserk is also strained, as Hvitserk begins to question Ivar's methods and the path they're on. It's clear that Hvitserk is wrestling with his conscience, and we can see the seeds of doubt being planted in his mind.

Lagertha and Bjorn's Struggle: Meanwhile, Lagertha and Bjorn are facing their own challenges as they try to gather support for their cause. They travel to different settlements, seeking allies and resources. However, they face resistance from some who are wary of joining another war. Lagertha, in particular, is struggling with the burden of leadership and the responsibility for the lives of her people. She's haunted by the past and the mistakes she's made, and she's determined to protect her people at all costs. Bjorn, on the other hand, is driven by a desire to reclaim his birthright and avenge the wrongs that have been committed against his family. He's a fierce warrior, but he also has a strong sense of justice and a deep love for his mother.

The episode culminates in a series of intense confrontations and shocking revelations, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and eager to see what happens next.

Key Moments and Highlights

• The Betrayal: One of the most shocking moments in the episode is the betrayal of a key character. This act of treachery has far-reaching consequences and throws the entire conflict into chaos. It's a reminder that in the world of Vikings, no one is truly safe, and alliances can shift in an instant.
• The Battle: Of course, no episode of Vikings would be complete without a fierce battle. This episode features a brutal and bloody clash between Ivar's forces and the rebels. The battle is filled with stunning visuals and intense action, showcasing the brutality of Viking warfare.
• The Prophecy: A mysterious seer delivers a cryptic prophecy that casts a shadow over the future of Kattegat. The prophecy hints at dark times ahead and suggests that the fate of the Vikings hangs in the balance. This adds another layer of intrigue to the story and raises the stakes even higher.

Character Analysis

Let's take a closer look at some of the key characters and their arcs in this episode:

• Ivar the Boneless: Ivar's descent into madness continues in this episode. He's driven by paranoia and a thirst for power, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his grip on Kattegat. However, we also see glimpses of his vulnerability and his inner demons. He's a complex and fascinating character, even though he's become increasingly villainous.
• Lagertha: Lagertha is struggling with the weight of her responsibilities and the losses she's suffered. She's determined to protect her people, but she's also haunted by the past. She's a strong and resilient character, but she's also vulnerable and flawed. Her journey is one of the most compelling aspects of the show.
• Bjorn Ironside: Bjorn is driven by a desire to reclaim his birthright and avenge the wrongs that have been committed against his family. He's a fierce warrior, but he also has a strong sense of justice and a deep love for his mother. He's a noble and honorable character, and he's willing to fight for what he believes in.
• Hvitserk: Hvitserk is torn between his loyalty to Ivar and his growing doubts about Ivar's methods. He's struggling with his conscience, and he's beginning to question the path they're on. He's a conflicted and complex character, and his choices will have a significant impact on the outcome of the war.

Themes and Symbolism

"The Most Terrible Thing" explores several important themes, including:

• The Corrupting Influence of Power: The episode shows how power can corrupt even the noblest of individuals. Ivar's descent into tyranny is a prime example of this theme.
• The Cost of War: The episode highlights the devastating consequences of war, both for individuals and for society as a whole. The war between the sons of Ragnar is tearing the Viking world apart, and it's taking a heavy toll on everyone involved.
• The Nature of Loyalty: The episode explores the complexities of loyalty and the challenges of remaining true to one's principles in a world of shifting alliances.

Symbolism: Throughout the episode, there are several recurring symbols that add depth and meaning to the story. For example, the raven, a common symbol in Viking culture, appears frequently, often foreshadowing death or misfortune. The use of light and shadow also plays a significant role, highlighting the contrast between good and evil and the struggle between hope and despair.

Historical Accuracy and Interpretation

As with any historical drama, Vikings takes certain liberties with the historical record. While the show is inspired by real events and figures, it also incorporates fictional elements and dramatic license. It's important to remember that Vikings is not a documentary, but rather a work of entertainment. However, the show does offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Vikings and their culture. The historical accuracy, while not perfect, adds a layer of authenticity to the story and makes it all the more compelling.

Fan Theories and Discussions

Of course, no discussion of Vikings would be complete without mentioning the numerous fan theories and discussions that surround the show. Fans are constantly speculating about what will happen next, debating the characters' motivations, and analyzing the show's themes and symbolism. Some popular fan theories include:

• Ivar's Downfall: Many fans believe that Ivar's reign of terror will eventually come to an end, and that he will be overthrown by his rivals.
• Lagertha's Fate: There is much speculation about Lagertha's fate, with some fans believing that she will meet a tragic end, while others are hoping for a more triumphant conclusion to her story.
• The Future of Kattegat: The future of Kattegat is uncertain, with many fans wondering who will ultimately rule the city and what kind of society they will create.

These fan theories add to the excitement and engagement surrounding the show, and they demonstrate the passion that Vikings inspires in its viewers.

Production Quality and Directing

Vikings is known for its high production quality, and "The Most Terrible Thing" is no exception. The episode features stunning visuals, including breathtaking landscapes, detailed costumes, and impressive battle sequences. The directing is also top-notch, with each scene carefully crafted to create a sense of tension and drama. The use of music and sound effects is particularly effective, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

Overall Impression and Rating

Overall, "The Most Terrible Thing" is a strong episode of Vikings that moves the story forward in significant ways. The episode is filled with drama, action, and intrigue, and it features compelling performances from the cast. The episode also explores important themes and raises thought-provoking questions about power, loyalty, and the human condition. I'd give this episode a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It's a must-watch for any Vikings fan.

What to Expect Next

After the events of "The Most Terrible Thing," the stage is set for an epic showdown between Ivar and his rivals. We can expect to see more battles, betrayals, and shocking twists in the episodes to come. The fate of Kattegat hangs in the balance, and the future of the Viking world is uncertain. So, grab your axes and shields, guys, because it's going to be a wild ride!

Keywords: Vikings Season 5 Episode 17, Vikings review, Vikings recap, Ivar the Boneless, Lagertha, Bjorn Ironside, Viking drama, historical drama.