The legendary Viking chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok is one of the most famous figures of Norse mythology and history. The Vikings TV series made him a household name, depicting his rise as a warrior and king, as well as the exploits of his formidable sons. But how accurate is the show’s portrayal of his family? How many children did Ragnar actually have, and who was the real mother of Bjorn Ironside?
Ragnar’s Marriages and Children
According to historical accounts and Norse sagas, Ragnar Lothbrok was married three times and had multiple children, both legitimate and illegitimate. His wives and their known children inclu
Lagertha (Hlaðgerðr) – His first wife, a legendary shieldmaiden. Together, they had:
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Fridleif (a son)
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Two unnamed daughters
Thora Borgarhjǫrtr – His second wife, the daughter of Herraud, a nobleman from Götaland. Their children were:
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Eirik (sometimes identified as Eric Weatherhat)
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Agnar
Aslaug (Áslaug Sigurðardóttir) – His third and most famous wife, a woman of noble lineage said to be the daughter of the dragon-slayer Sigurd and Brynhild. Their sons became legendary figures themselves:
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Bjorn Ironside
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Ubba (died 878)
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Hvitserk
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Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye
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Ivar the Boneless (died 873)
Each of his sons became rulers in their own right, holding the title of Jarl and commanding their own territories.
Bjorn Ironside’s Parentage: Lagertha or Aslaug?
One of the biggest deviations in the Vikings TV series is the portrayal of Bjorn Ironside’s mother. The show depicts him as the son of Lagertha, but according to most historical sources, he was actually the son of Aslaug. This creative liberty added drama to the series, making Lagertha a more central figure in Bjorn’s journey, but it differs from the traditional Norse sagas.
The Legacy of Ragnar’s Children
Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons carried on his legacy by leading great Viking expeditions, ruling kingdoms, and waging wars across Europe. While the exact details of their lives are shrouded in myth, their impact on history is undeniable. The sagas tell of their legendary battles, including the invasion of England and the conquest of new lands.To learn more about the deeds of Ragnar's sons, you can read about them here.
Though Vikings took creative liberties in its portrayal of Ragnar’s family, the real history of his children is just as fascinating — if not more so. Whether sons of Aslaug or Lagertha, Ragnar’s descendants shaped the Viking Age and left a lasting mark on history.
