Ragnar Lothbrok: The Saga of a Viking Warrior King by History Hourglass & Kingsley Alexander

Author:History, Hourglass & Kingsley, Alexander
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-05-27T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 13: Sons of the Dragon Slayer

The sagas speak of Ragnar Lothbrok's many children, each a force in their own right. Four of his sons are particularly famous: Ivar the Boneless, Bjorn Ironside, Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye, and Ubbe. This chapter will take us into the life and deeds of these legendary figures, how they carried their father's legacy, and carved out their own paths in the tapestry of Viking history.

Ivar the Boneless

Born of Aslaug and Ragnar, Ivar was known by an unusual moniker, "the Boneless." While there are many theories explaining this epithet, the sagas say it was Aslaug's prophecy that foretold Ivar's condition. Displeased with Ragnar's impatience in their marital bed, Aslaug warned him that their haste would result in a child cursed with weak bones. Ivar, as the result, was born with limbs as flexible as if they were devoid of bones.

Despite this, Ivar's physical weakness was juxtaposed by his sharp intellect. The sagas describe him as a brilliant strategist, using his mind as his weapon. His cunning was said to be instrumental in leading successful raids and outsmarting his enemies, compensating for what he lacked in physical strength.

Bjorn Ironside

Bjorn Ironside, a name that embodied his invincibility in battle, was another of Ragnar and Aslaug's sons. Unlike Ivar, Bjorn was known for his physical strength and bravery. His nickname, "Ironside," was attributed to his ability to resist and survive injuries in battle, as if he was clad in iron.

Bjorn's most famous exploit was his raid on Italy. The sagas recount an audacious ploy, where Bjorn faked his death to bypass the defenses of the Italian city of Luna, making it one of the most audacious Viking raids of that time.

Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye

Sigurd earned his name, "Snake-in-the-Eye," due to a distinctive mark in one of his eyes, resembling a snake or a dragon. It was said that this mark was a portent of his lineage and destiny.

Sigurd's most prominent story in the sagas is his marriage to the daughter of King Ælla, the man said to have caused Ragnar's death. This union, however, did not bring peace; instead, it highlighted the tension and conflict that the sons of Ragnar would inflict upon Ælla's kingdom.

Ubbe

Less is known about Ubbe, the fourth son of Ragnar and Aslaug. Nevertheless, he was said to be a capable warrior and participated in the raids alongside his brothers. His role in avenging Ragnar's death further highlights his commitment to his family's legacy.

In truth, it is challenging to separate the sons of Ragnar from their father's colossal legend. Their exploits are often told in conjunction with their father's saga, inextricably woven into a shared family legacy. Yet, each of them emerged as unique individuals, their characters and actions distinct and formidable. They inherited Ragnar's courage and resourcefulness, as well as his lust for adventure and conquest.

Through their deeds, the sons of Ragnar were not merely his heirs, but active contributors to his legend. They embraced their roles as warriors, kings, and leaders, each marking the Viking world with their unique stamp.

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