How do the writers of the Viking TV series blend historical events with fictional storytelling?

The writers of the Viking TV series, which aired on the History Channel from 2013 to 2020, aimed to balance historical accuracy with the need for entertaining and compelling storytelling. To achieve this, they conducted extensive research on the Viking Age, consulting with historians, archaeologists, and other experts, and drew on a variety of historical sources, such as sagas and chronicles.

However, they also took some creative liberties with the history, introducing fictional characters and storylines to fill in the gaps and add drama. For example, the main character, Ragnar Lothbrok, is based on a legendary Viking figure, and some of the events depicted in the show, such as the Viking raids on Paris, are fictionalized for dramatic effect.

Despite the fictional elements, the writers strove to maintain the authenticity of the show's setting and culture, such as the Viking's religious beliefs, customs, and language. They also aimed to depict the violence and brutality of the Viking Age, while avoiding glorifying it.