Anglo-Saxonism in The Last Kingdom


Anglo-Saxonism is prominent in various medieval-centered works. Anglo-Saxionism is the idea that Whiteness (Germanic Anglo-Saxons) linked their race, language, and culture as “superior” over other races and languages and cultures. Although there are many examples of this way of thinking in many works, one specific work that I will talk of is the Netflix series called The Last Kingdom.
This series begins with an all “White”, Christian group from Bebbanburg that are trying to defend their lands against a new group trying to claim them. This new group is composed of pagan, Viking men called the Danes who are trying to conquer a new home. Upon arrival, the Vikings are portrayed as pagan savages. They seem violence-hungry and eager to kill anyone in their way. In fact, this Viking group slaughters the men of Bebbanburg that are merely trying to defend their home. The beloved leader of the men of Bebbanburg is even killed from behind, which is considered a sign of weakness and disrespect (unable to face your enemy). On top of that the prisoners (both men and women) acquired from taking the lands are brutally tortured and executed. This makes these pagan men seem savage-like and blood thirsty and overall beneath the Anglo-Saxon men of Bebbanburg. The main character is a boy named Uhtred that is the rightful heir to Bebbanburg and he is taken prisoner and raised as a servant to the pagan leader. This boy is portrayed as the “underdog” and often is seen pure and of good heart in many scenarios. For example, the pagan leader’s daughter was being taken advantage of by a boy and this main character fought him to defend her and her honor. The idea of “chivalry” even at a young age. He is portrayed as the unfortunate Anglo-Saxon taken prisoner by pagans and is simply trying to do his best.

Another common theme in medieval-based works is the Eurocentric ideals such as a patriarchal society. In The Last Kingdom, the thoughts, history, and ideals are often modeled around Europe. For example, men in this show are always ruling or making the decisions just as society was too in Europe. The idea of a woman being in charge is ludicrous and unheard of. In The Last Kingdom, Uhtred and his best friend run off together and try and make it in a time of many different wars and battles and fights. Whenever Uhtred introduces his friend, who is a woman, other men, they seem to be confused and taken aback as to why she is his best friend. However, in the show the woman still seems to not be on the same level as Uhtred. For example, he makes the decisions and although she helps, his say is final.
All in all, medieval-based works such as The Last Kingdom, are often centered around Eurocentric and Anglo-Saxonism ideals that Young discusses in her book. Throughout this entire show, Anglo-Saxons are portrayed in a light that upholds Eurocentric ideals and looks upon other races and cultures in a negative manner.

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