There are many powerful and wonderful female characters in The Last Kingdom. But which one has proven to be the best and most unique?
Whether as an ally of Uhtred, a villain, a stubborn queen, or one of the show's smartest leaders, The Last Kingdom writers have done their best to ensure that each female character stands out for their own merits. But which is better? While all of the women had a huge impact on the story, some were more memorable than others.
Aelflaed
Although Aelflaed didn't get the same screen time as the other characters, she proved to be one of the most annoying antagonists. Alfred seems intent on doing whatever it takes to make sure she remains the Wessex mop queen (including poisoning the king's mother, Olswith) when she bonds with her father. While their plans appear to have failed at the end of Season 4, fans are anticipating that they will be upping their game in Season 5.
Many fans, portrayed by Amelia Clarkson, agree that the actor has done a great job capturing lflæd's spoiled, childish demeanor. Whether it's communicating her grumbling complaints, how arrogant she walks, or looking at everyone with a cold expression, Clarkson has done well in creating such an unloved villain.
Iseult
Iseult might have only appeared in 3 episodes, but she still proved to be quite an iconic character due to her compassionate and kind nature. Although she faced a lot of discrimination from the Anglo-Saxons for her seer powers and magic abilities, Iseult was still willing to provide medical assistance because she hated seeing anyone suffering.
She plays a significant role in the overall story as she manages to save Edward from a fatal illness while making Uhtred aware of his fate. Even though it's been so many years since her death, fans will love that the two men talk about her so much because she helped shape them into the people they are today.
Thyra
While fans have seen plenty of characters come and go in The Last Kingdom, it was a sad day for everyone when they had to say goodbye to Thyra. First seen in the first season, Thera won the hearts of fans due to her peaceful nature and wise visions. Unlike her two brothers, Ragnar and Uhtred, she did not see the point of all the fighting and preferred to live a happy life away from it all.
However, it was her relationship with Beocca that piqued the interest of viewers the most because her influence helped the Saxon priest become more open to Danish culture [and encouraged him, to help "Uhtred" unite the two groups together]. It's a shame she's not alive to have it happen because that peace is all she ever wanted.
Eadith
Although she has only appeared in 10 episodes, fans have been hugely impressed with Eadith so far since she has proven to be a selfless and altruistic person. She has risked her life several times to help Uhtred protect her friends and loved ones, while also hanging out her happiness to make sure she rewards her family's crimes.
Now that Uhtred and Finan have named her an honorary member of their group, many fans are excited to see what new dynamics this could create and how it would affect Eadith's character. Since viewers only see a brief glimpse of her combative and espionage skills, it would be great if the writers could continue to show this in Season 5 and how she became an important resource for them.
Gisela
Gisela may only have been seen as another love interest for Uhtred, but over time, she's become so much more. Similar to Uhtred, what drew viewers to Dane was the fact that she was carefree and refused to comply with society's expectations.
She may not have participated in any fights, but Gisela played an important role in the story. Her relationship with Uhtred not only allowed viewers to see a softer, more mature side of the Dane Slayer but was also instrumental in helping maintain the peace between Uhtred and Alfred (as her rationality made them think before they act). Without her wise words and political insights, it was likely that their kingdoms would have collapsed because Uhtred was a hothead.
Stiorra
Steora is another character viewers have grown to love in Season 4. Not only did she prove to be extremely smart but her courage in the face of adversity impressed audiences greatly (especially since she came face to face with some powerful villains).
As she now lives with Sigtrygrr in Eoferwic and finally gets a chance to explore the world, Last Kingdom viewers are excited to find out what the storylines will be in store for Stiorra in Season 5. With Stiorra expressing that she was skilled with the sword, there's a chance she could become a great fighter like Her father, Uhtred.
Aelswith
Although Aelswith isn't the most popular character in The Last Kingdom, many fans will agree that the show wouldn't be the same without her because she made for a lot of drama.
For years, Aelswith had had viewers scream at their televisions in frustration. Not only were her prejudices, controlling behaviors, and sarcastic insults on everyone's nerves, but they were also responsible for many of the challenges Uhtred had to face. The fact that some fans said she was just as annoying as Joffrey from Game of Thrones proves that Butterworth did an excellent job of capturing her villainous essence.
Aethelflaed
In the past three seasons, the rise of Aethelflaed to the evolution of succession and character has drawn viewers into their television sets. Although many people would say that Uhtred is the bravest character in The Last Kingdom, Aethelflaed can easily challenge him for the title as she has participated in many battles and faced many powerful enemies.
Viewers can see why Aethelflaed has also gained Uhtred's loyalty because her brave spirit and devotion to people show that she is a somewhat affectionate and merciful person. Now that she is Queen of Mercia, many fans are excited to see if her kingdom will continue to thrive and if Aethelflaed becomes a greater leader.
Brida
Of all the characters in The Last Kingdom, Brida has one of the best and most complex arcs on the show. From being a tough and ferocious warrior to a bloodthirsty villain, fans found it interesting to watch Breda descend into the darkness as she becomes even more drained by her anger and pain.
What also made it so compelling was how the book made sure it wasn't a stereotypical one-dimensional villain. They took the time to explore Brida's backstory in-depth, explaining to the audience the reasons why she acts the way she does and how she is similar to Uhtred (in more ways than one). With her set to be the antagonist in Season 5, it will be interesting to see if Breda finally embraces her dark side.
Hild
Although Hild may not be in the action like the other characters on the show, that didn't stop her from becoming a fan favorite. Whether it's for her lovable friendship with Uhtred, her strong morals, or her no-nonsense attitude, Hild has given fans plenty of special moments.
Thanks to "Hild" with "Uhtred" and "Finan", it also provided so much comic relief for viewers as well that fans couldn't help but chuckle at some of the conversations they had. Now that Father Beocca has passed away, it would be great if Heald could replace Uhtred's moral compass and help keep him grounded.