Season 1

I like shows that are clear on their intentions and focused on the kind of narratives they wish to tell. Vikings is one such show. In as little as nine episodes it has managed to introduce both its core characters and the people who support and oppose their ideals, what drives such ideals, what they want, what they're willing to give up, and what they will fight with their lives to keep. What really matters to them and how their own pride could more often than not make them buck on their own words.

Also, in as little as nine episodes you learn about the Vikings culture, the stories they tell about their gods, about how they view the world. These people are not blinded by their faith, because they view their faith with honor, which then in turn gives them fearlessness that always serves them well in battle.

I like Ragnar's adventurous spirit, his curiosities, his openness to discover, learn and understand new things that far surpasses his known beliefs. We can all learn a thing or two from the "friendship" he has with Athelstan. How despite the differences in their beliefs, they can still manage to carry sensible discussions. Not to try and change each other's views, but to understand that different views exist and that we can all learn something new from them if we just sit back and listen.

I like Lagertha and the calm strength with which she handles herself, her family, her title and the responsibilities it entails. I like Floki and the queerness with which he handles everything~! I like Gyda and how her presence draws out the tenderness in both Ragnar and Lagertha. I like Bjorn and the loyalty he has to sworn ties. I like Rollo and how his loyalty to his brother is tested at each turn (that poor chap!).

I also really like how Vikings pulls back from the unnecessary gore and nudity that so plague most TV shows right now, relying instead on its actors' skills combined with music and camera work that efficiently fill in the gaps for its audience (I teared up over that sacrifice scene in Uppsala - that was simply heart-wrenchingly beautiful T.T<3). I like gore. But I also really like subtleties that can better replace them when done right.

I have already watched the latter seasons and watching the first one has really made me appreciate this series even more~! I can't wait to get started on season 2~!

MY THOUGHTS ON SEASON 1

-WARNING: Spoilers Below-

Okay I think I have just found one of my new favourite shows. I absolutely fell in love with this from start to finish. I never usually go for shows like this because I wasn't too found of Game of Thrones so I just presumed they'd all be the same. I ended up getting strongly recommended to watch this show so I ended up caving and thought "screw it" and put it on and within the first 10-15 minutes I was hooked! I literally couldn't take my eyes of the screen.

Something I really enjoyed about this season was the historical accuracy. The characters are all based on real Vikings and the battles are all real life battles that happened. Unfortunately though if you're like me and you love all things Viking related you may have already heard about Ragnar and how his story ends... So I'm really not looking forward to that episode if it they continue to stick with the accuracy.

I'm looking forward to watching season 2 majorly. I have a feeling this will be one of those shows I'll always look back on fondly and recommend to people. The action is insanely good, the plot is phenomenal, the writing and directing flowed together beautifully and everything just felt so real. I'm really looking forward to continuing this one.