The Mysterious Harbard: Unraveling the Enigma of Vikings' Most Intriguing Character

Unveiling the Mystery of Harbard

Harbard in Vikings was one of the show's most mysterious characters with plenty of questions around his identity lingering long after it concluded. Vikings saw all types of characters — some with good hearts, and others driven by hate — but it was always hard to figure out Harbard as his real identity is never clearly revealed.

Kevin Durand as Harbard on Vikings

Right from his introduction, Harbard (Kevin Durand) on Vikings stands out among the rest of the male cast because of his lack of outright violence (although he does let Siggy drown). He usually seems to appear in the town of Kattegat while most of the men are away raiding. The Harbard Vikings moments are among the most mysterious in the show, such as him disappearing into the mist in Vikings season 3 and leaving cryptic messages prior to Aslaug's death in Vikings season 4. Given the nature of the character, there are many theories on Harbard's identity, and some are more viable than others.

Split image of Harbard from Vikings and actor Kevin Durand

Vikings followed the journeys of legendary Norse figures, such as protagonist Ragnar Lothbrok. However, as the series progressed, Vikings shifted its focus to Ragnar’s sons and their own adventures and battles, making them the protagonists. The series has seen several major characters die, but there’s one who didn't, instead disappearing as mysteriously as he arrived: Harbard.

Kevin Durand as Harbard staring intensely at night in Vikings

The Enigmatic Arrival of Harbard

Harbard's introduction in Vikings season 3 brought a wave of intrigue and uncertainty. Also known as “the wanderer,” Harbard's arrival had been announced before through Aslaug, Siggy, and Helga’s dreams. The first enigmatic dream sequence is Harbard holding a snowball in his hand that's on fire while his hand drips blood. Harbard seems to have healing powers, as he is able to cure the baby Ivar the Boneless. Aslaug and Helga consequently become colder towards Harbard after he lets Siggy drown when he could've saved her without any difficulty.

Kevin Durand as Harbard wearing a hood in the forest in Vikings

Before Sigurd's heartbreaking death in Vikings season 4, he finds out that Harbard has been having sex with most of the women in town, and Aslaug descends into a blind rage. Harbard appears to her to tell Aslaug that he cannot be possessed or controlled and promptly disappears — and it's never revealed why (or how) he was able to seduce so many of Kattegat's female population. Harbard didn't stay in Kattegat for long, but it was enough time to raise many questions about who he truly was.

Harbard talking to someone with a smile in Vikings

In the midst of these puzzling events, questions emerged about whether Harbard was a real man or something more. His ability to ease Ivar’s pain simply by touching and talking to him, his enigmatic appearances, and the way he interacted with the characters left viewers and characters alike contemplating his true nature.

Kevin Durand as Harbard looking intensely while wearing a hood on Vikings season 4

Deciphering the Identity of Harbard

Vikings' Harbard gave rise to numerous theories about his identity, with some speculating that he is a Norse god in human form. The theories surrounding Harbard's true nature range from him being Loki or Odin to suggestions of him being Thor or even Jesus. The enigmatic figure's actions and powers have fueled these speculations, prompting viewers to ponder the extent of his influence and the origins of his mysterious abilities.

Vikings Aslaug Harbard pond

Theories about Harbard's identity as Loki or Odin gained traction due to his supernatural appearances and his ability to ease Ivar’s pain, which defied conventional understanding. The foggy disappearance and the white light surrounding him further hinted at a divine nature, sparking debates about his true identity.

Kevin Durand as Harbard smiling while wearing a hood in Vikings

Despite the uncertainty, a prevailing theory suggests that Harbard represents a Norse god, particularly Loki. The god of chaos in Norse mythology, Loki's shapeshifting abilities and penchant for causing discord align closely with the enigmatic figure's actions and impact on Kattegat. His presence serves as a potent symbol of the clash between conflicting belief systems, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative while evoking fascination and intrigue among viewers.