Understanding Historical Fiction: 'The Last Kingdom' and Bernard Cornwell

The notion of historical accuracy in literature, particularly in television adaptations, often leads to debates among scholars, historians, and book enthusiasts. One such example is the British TV series 'The Last Kingdom,' which is based on the novels by Bernard Cornwell. This article delves into the extent of historical accuracy in 'The Last Kingdom,' as well as distinguishing its place within the realm of historical fiction.

Historical Characters and Their Portrayals

Uhtred, the central character in 'The Last Kingdom,' is a historical figure, but his depiction and the time period in which he lived (Alfred's era) are not strictly accurate. In the series, King Alfred is portrayed as a weak figure, which is somewhat inaccurate. Historically, Alfred was known for his military and administrative achievements. The show, like many others, takes creative liberties with characters and events to create a more engaging narrative. In reality, Uhtred likely changed allegiances between Saxons and Danes depending on what served his survival best, a common trait in medieval times. Consequently, while 'The Last Kingdom' provides an entertaining and engaging adaptation of history, it should be viewed with the understanding that it is mostly fictionalized.

The Fictional Nature of 'The Last Kingdom'

'The Last Kingdom' is both a television series and a series of novels, and it follows a blend of fictional and historical events. Bernard Cornwell, the author, has a reputation for basing his novels on real historical events. His series, titled 'The Saxon Stories,' are classified as fiction, even though they are inspired by historical figures and incidents. The show was developed from these novels, which delved into a mix of real and imagined storylines to create a compelling narrative. The writers combined events from different time periods, creating a seamless yet fictional story that, while plausible, did not occur in the exact sequence as portrayed in the series.

Historical Accuracy vs. Entertainment

When considering the historical accuracy of 'The Last Kingdom,' it is important to acknowledge that no single adaptation can be entirely accurate. Elements of the show, such as character interactions, political alliances, and dramatic plot points, are embellished and idealized for dramatic effect. For instance, the linking of historical figures and events from different eras allows for a more dramatic and coherent storyline. However, this amalgamation often means that the series is not to be taken as a direct reflection of historical reality.

A key factor in this is the historical basis of the character Uhtred himself. His character is inspired by the author's family's connection to the ruling lords of Bebbanburg, modern-day Bamburgh Castle. This family link provides a real-world foundation for the character, but it also means that the character's adventures and experiences have been embellished and developed for the sake of storytelling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 'The Last Kingdom' is an engaging and entertaining adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's novels, it should be understood for what it is: a work of historical fiction. The show takes historical events, inspiration, and characters and weaves them into a compelling narrative that, while informed by real history, does not claim to be a direct representation of actual events. Engaging viewers should approach the series with this perspective to fully appreciate its value as a work of art and entertainment, rather than as a strict historical document.

Key Takeaways:

Uhtred’s portrayal in the series may differ from historical records. No single adaptation of historical events can be entirely accurate. 'The Last Kingdom' takes liberties with time periods and character interactions for dramatic effect. The show is inspired by real historical figures and events.