I like it when two of my favorite things converge: history and good television. I was afraid for a long time that all the History Channel could churn out was reality shows like Pawn Stars and Swamp People. What happened to the awesome documentaries? Then, the History Channel decide to a write historical drama. The completely awesome Vikings was born. It was there also that my crush on Ragnar began.
Stats:
Full name: Ragnar Lothbrok (Lodbrok)
Age: ??
Occupation: Leader, warrior, explorer
Who is He?
Ragnar is the main protagonist on the television show Vikings, which premiered on the History Channel on March 3rd, 2013. Ragnar is played by Travis Fimmel. Ragnar’s character is based on a Norse legend and historical figure. Only bits of Ragnar’s life were ever recorded in Norse poetic sagas. Ragnar dreams of more than plundering nearby villages. He wants to explore the ocean and win greater glory. His ambition gets him in trouble with several authority figures on the show, but he doesn’t let that stop him from being god-like.
Fun Facts:
- Ragnar’s eyes glow a bright blue when he becomes emotional about something.
- Historically, Ragnar had three wives including the one on the show, Lagertha.
- Ragnar claims he is descended from Odin. This probably explains his cockiness.
- Shippers never rest; they have paired up Ragnar with the priest Athelstan. The pairing is called Ragnalstan.
- Ragnar claims he speared a bear and strangled vicious hounds to court Lagertha. Guys today need to step up.
Why So Crushworthy?
This man needs to be renamed “Swagnar”. The man has it going on in so many ways. Let me start with that swagger. Ragnar does not have to lift his voice to scare the pants of his enemies or the skirts off the ladies. He just has to capture you with those stunning blue eyes and speak with that amazing voice of his. I know, it’s actually Travis Fimmel talking but it’s Ragnar he’s playing. He is a gorgeous man. I even like his hair. I must have thing for Norsemen (Thor!). Ragnar usually gets what he wants. You can’t refuse the man. You can try, like Earl Haraldson did, but he will defy you. He doesn’t care about authority. He only cares what Odin thinks. Ragnar walks around like he owns everything. He will make sure he eventually does. But Ragnar isn’t just a charisma man. He is very smart as well. He wants to learn new things, like a new way to navigate the dragon boats. Ragnar always thinks in long term gains. Ragnar has no problem learning about other cultures, too. This is probably for the purpose of conquest but at least he’s willing to use his brain. Ragnar is a great and mighty warrior. He kicks butt on the battlefield. He is fast and doesn’t hide behind his shield. He usually takes down foes way bigger than him with ease. Don’t get in his way!
Ragnar is a good guy despite the arrogance. He is very loyal to his friends and followers. He will make sure to avenge your death if you are cut down dishonorably. This was the Viking equivalent to the Bro Code. He is a really good father to his kids. He wants them to grow up in a better world. He and Lagertha are a great couple for most of the series. His swag gets out of hand later. He gets a little too obsessed with the idea of having many sons. You can’t always believe a prophet! It revealed a huge character flaw: his blind belief in carrying out his fate. It made him less perfect. Perfect characters can get a little boring. He’s still a great character to crush on. I will always cheer for Ragnar on the show. I am interested in how his character develops next season.
