Known from the hit historical drama Vikings, sons of Ragnar Lothbrok — Bjorn Ironside, Ivar the Boneless, Hvitserk, Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye, and Ubbe — each carved their own path after their father’s legendary rule. But how did history remember them?
Bjorn Ironside: The Ruler of Sweden
Bjorn Ironside, portrayed as a fearless leader, became a king of Sweden in historical accounts. His legend describes him as an ambitious warrior who led daring raids across Europe and ruled with wisdom. According to tradition, he is considered the first ruler of Sweden from the House of Munsö, and his burial mound on the island of Munsö has long been associated with him
Ivar the Boneless: The Ruthless Conqueror
Ivar, known for his cunning and brutality, led the Great Heathen Army in its invasion of England. He reportedly died in battle, though accounts differ on whether it was due to illness or combat. According to The Saga of Ragnar and His Sons (written in the 18th century), Ivar ordered that his bones be buried in a strategic location, claiming that as long as they remained undisturbed, no foreign army could conquer the land. Legend has it that when Duke William of Normandy invaded England in 1066, he had Ivar’s burial mound unearthed and burned to break the curse.
Hvitserk: The Warrior Who Met a Fiery End
Hvitserk’s fate is among the most tragic of Ragnar’s sons. Historical sources suggest that he continued raiding in Ireland after his brothers had carved out their own territories. Some accounts claim he eventually fell into the hands of the Irish King Æla and was burned alive as a form of execution. However, other versions say he converted to Christianity and died as a monk. His identity is sometimes linked with the Viking leader Halfdan Ragnarsson, who fought in England and later perished in battle.
Ubbe: The Vinland Explorer
Ubbe’s journey to North America in Vikings is loosely based on historical records. Some believe he was one of the first Norsemen to explore lands beyond Greenland. His story bears resemblance to the real Viking explorer Leif Erikson, who reached Vinland (believed to be modern-day Newfoundland, Canada) around the year 1000.
Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye: Marked by Destiny
Sigurd was born with a distinctive mark in his eye, described as a serpent biting its own tail — an image known as Ouroboros. This led to his legendary name, Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye. He was one of the key figures in the Great Heathen Army and is said to have ruled over Denmark and parts of England. According to legend, he married Blaeja, the daughter of King Ælla of Northumbria, the same ruler who executed Ragnar. His descendants went on to play a significant role in the Viking Age.
While their paths varied, the sons of Ragnar cemented their place in Viking lore, expanding the legacy of their legendary father.
