The Last Kingdom Summary
"The Last Kingdom" is a series of novels that follows the life and adventures of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a fictional character set in the historical context of 9th-century England. The series starts with Uhtred as a young boy, who is taken captive by the invading Danes after they kill his father. He is then raised as a Viking and eventually becomes torn between his loyalty to the Danes and his allegiance to his native England.
The series is set in a time of great political upheaval, as the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England are invaded and conquered by Viking armies. Uhtred is an interesting character because he is caught between two worlds, and his story is a testament to the struggle of identity and belonging that many people face.
The novels are well-researched and historically accurate, with Cornwell weaving in real-life figures and events into his fictional narrative. The battles and political machinations depicted in the series are based on real events, and Cornwell's attention to detail helps bring the world of 9th-century England to life.
One of the strengths of the series is the character development of Uhtred. As readers follow his journey, they witness his growth and development from a young boy into a skilled warrior and leader. He is a complex character, with flaws and strengths that make him both relatable and intriguing.
"The Last Kingdom" has been adapted into a popular television series, which has introduced the novels to a wider audience. While the show takes some liberties with the source material, it remains faithful to the overall themes and tone of the books.
In conclusion, "The Last Kingdom" is an exciting and well-written series of historical fiction novels that transport readers back in time to a world of political intrigue, battles, and complex characters. If you're a fan of historical fiction or just looking for a great adventure story, this series is definitely worth checking out.
