The White Viking

Embla is Godbrandur's daughter who marries Askur and becomes a central figure in the Christianization conflict. She must balance family loyalty, love, and faith while navigating captivity and shifting allegiances. Her choices influence key outcomes and reflect the human cost of war between faiths.

Askur is a pagan noble who pursues a dangerous mission as a missionary. He uses bold deception, even disguising himself as Jesus to frighten nuns, and endures exile to continue his work. He embodies stubborn faith, resilience, and strategic cunning.

Thangbrandur is Olav’s religious adviser who wields influence but becomes a foil to the new order. His jealousy and complex loyalties culminate in a downfall as he clashes with both pagans and Christians. His arc reveals the perilous line between zeal and fanaticism.

King Olav is depicted as a fanatical Christian ruler determined to purge paganism. He aggressively asserts his authority, captures hostages, and engineers high-stakes confrontations to consolidate power. His actions illuminate the political use of religion in shaping kingdoms.

Godbrandur is a pagan jarl resisting Christian encroachment and aiding Embla's faction. He champions pagan identity until his death in a destructive confrontation, highlighting the personal costs of cultural clash. His leadership embodies stubborn pride and martial strength.

Gunnar is Askur's half-brother who suspects Askur's intentions and conspires with their mother Hallbera. He helps drive the factional conflict through suspicion, murder, and political maneuvering. His actions reveal how kinship can complicate loyalties.

Thorgeir is Iceland’s lawspeaker who ultimately orchestrates a peaceful conversion. He negotiates a decree that allows Christian and pagan practices to coexist secretly, attempting to avert bloodshed. His pragmatic leadership reframes faith as a political compromise.