The Last Kingdom: 10 Brilliant Changes by Netflix That Surpassed the Books

Netflix's The Last Kingdom successfully incorporates notable changes from its source material, effectively improving the series. Based on Bernard Cornwell's renowned Saxon Stories novel series, which encompasses a staggering 13 volumes, The Last Kingdom inevitably necessitates modifications due to its relatively condensed five-season run plus a movie.

Adapting such an extensive series presents challenges in determining which sections of the book to alter or omit. However, The Last Kingdom excels in streamlining the storylines from the novels while preserving crucial themes and plot points. Although some questions remain unanswered and certain deviations from the books have garnered negative feedback, overall, The Last Kingdom serves as an admirable example of adapting a lengthy book series.

10 Netflix Was Right To Make Uhtred Younger

9 Uhtred's Relationship With Young Uhtred Fits The Last Kingdom Better

The decision to portray Uhtred as younger in The Last Kingdom was actually quite clever, despite the discussion surrounding the age inconsistency. In the books, Uhtred is depicted as an elderly man in his 70s during the climax of the series, specifically the Battle of Brunanburh. It would have been impractical for a character of that age to partake in the intense fight scenes that are a major draw for viewers. By making Uhtred younger, the show allows for his active involvement in these thrilling battles, which undoubtedly contribute to its popularity. Additionally, aging the character too drastically would necessitate recasting, and this would mean losing the show's most beloved actor.

Uhtred's relationship with his eldest son, Young Uhtred, undergoes a noteworthy transformation in The Last Kingdom compared to the books. In the literary version, Uhtred harbors deep resentment towards his son's unwavering devotion to Christianity, going as far as derogatorily referring to him as "Judas" and favoring his younger, more martial offspring by stripping away the shared name of Uhtred. However, The Last Kingdom portrays Uhtred as a more level-headed and open-minded individual. Therefore, it would have felt incongruous with the show's depiction of Uhtred to include such animosity towards his son. Instead, the television adaptation opts for a more realistic approach, capturing Uhtred's initial unease with his son's religious preference but ultimately showcasing his acceptance of Young Uhtred, aligning with the character's growth throughout The Last Kingdom.

8 Stiorra Surviving Makes The Last Kingdom Happier

In The Saxon Stories novels, the unfortunate demise of Stiorra occurs at the hands of a Viking warlord before Uhtred and Stiorra's husband, Sigtryggr, are able to come to her rescue. However, the television adaptation makes a slight adjustment to this storyline by replacing Stiorra's tragic fate with the untimely death of Sigtryggr. The circumstances surrounding Sigtryggr's demise deviate from those depicted in the books. With numerous heartbreaking deaths already occurring in The Last Kingdom, most of which directly impact Uhtred, including Stiorra in this list would have been exceedingly distressing for fans. Hence, the decision to have Sigtryggr meet his demise in her stead is a way to maintain a somewhat happier tone in the show.

7 Steapa's Last Kingdom Death Fits His Character Better

In The Last Kingdom, Steappa, a valued friend of Uhtred and a formidable warrior in Wessex, tragically sacrifices himself to save Edward's life during the Battle of Tettenhall. In the original books, Steappa survives this pivotal encounter and eventually retires peacefully to the countryside, growing wearied of a life of combat. Although this would have provided a happier conclusion for his character, the show's decision to have him meet his fate in battle aligns more convincingly. Steappa's formidable reputation as a fearsome warrior naturally leads to his ultimate demise in a worthy combat. Furthermore, if his departure from the show was inevitable, it was far more fitting for him to meet a noble end on-screen rather than simply fade away into a life of retirement.

6 Father Pyrlig Surviving The Last Kingdom Improves The Cast

Father Pyrlig, one of The Last Kingdom's most beloved characters, was wisely kept alive until the end of the series. In the book series, he passes away peacefully in his old age between novels, a pleasant departure for Pyrlig. However, if the show had followed suit, it would have deprived viewers of one of the show's finest characters. Father Pyrlig captivates fans with his wise counsel and relaxed demeanor, making him a fan-favorite. Since there was no narrative justification for his demise, it was the right decision to ensure his presence until the conclusion of The Last Kingdom.

5 Aldhelm Being Good Improves The Last Kingdom's Story

In The Saxon Stories, Aldhelm undergoes a significant transformation as a character. However, The Last Kingdom makes noteworthy changes to his role, greatly enhancing the storyline involving Mercia. While Aldhelm remains a loyal advisor to Aethelred in the books, he takes a different path in the series. In The Last Kingdom, he is given orders to kill Aethelflaed by Aethelred, but he defies these orders. Instead, he reaches out to Aethelflaed, warning her about her husband's nefarious intentions. This act sets the stage for Aldhelm's pivotal role as an important advisor to Aethelflaed in the later part of The Last Kingdom's fourth season, significantly shaping the Mercia plot.

4 Uhtred's Fate Fits The Last Kingdom's Story Better

3 The Manner Of Ragnar's Last Kingdom Death Helps The Plot

Uhtred's ultimate fate in the sequel film of The Last Kingdom, titled Seven Kings Must Die, remains somewhat vague, but it is highly probable that he succumbed to the wounds he sustained in the momentous Battle of Brunanburh. While Uhtred serves as the narrator in The Saxon Stories, rendering his demise impossible within the confines of that narrative, The Last Kingdom presents no such limitations, thus allowing Uhtred to make the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of a unified England. This selfless act of Uhtred's demise resonates harmoniously with the overarching theme of the story, as the unification of England has always been its profound purpose.

In The Last Kingdom, Ragnar Ragnarsson, Uhtred's adopted brother, meets a tragic end at the hands of Aethelwold, King Alfred's deceitful nephew. This deviation from the original books adds an intriguing subplot to the story. Although it is heart-wrenching, Ragnar's demise takes an unexpected twist, denying him access to Valhalla. In order to rectify this, Brida and Uhtred embark on a quest to avenge Ragnar by using the blood of his kin to vanquish Aethelwold. This captivating narrative not only keeps viewers engaged but also offers a satisfying resolution to the despised character of Aethelwold.

2 Uhtred & Hild's Platonic Relationship Improves Uhtred's Character

1 Merging Sigurd With Harald Bloodhair Condenses The Last Kingdom's Villain Roster

Hild is widely adored in The Last Kingdom due to her strong bond with Uhtred. While the books portray Hild and Uhtred having a short-lived romantic relationship, the show diverges from this storyline and presents them as dear friends. This decision proves to be astute as it enhances Uhtred's characterization, moving away from his overly sexualized nature in the books. In the novels, he tends to engage in romances with most of the women he grows close to, whereas allowing him to maintain a simple friendship like this adds depth to his character.

To streamline The Saxon Stories novels in The Last Kingdom, a clever technique is employed: merging the antagonists Sigurd and Harald Bloodhair into a single character, Sigurd Bloodhair. This consolidation allows Sigurd Bloodhair to encompass the pivotal storylines of both Sigurd and Harald, effectively reducing the number of antagonists in The Last Kingdom. Simultaneously, it elevates the significance of Bloodhair in the show, as he becomes the embodiment of both book characters.