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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for The Northman (2022). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.


In AD 895, King Aurvandill returns triumphantly to the island of Hrafnsey after a series of conquests, joyfully reuniting with his beloved wife, Queen Gudrún, and their heir, Prince Amleth. To prepare Amleth for the responsibilities he will someday assume, both participate in a spiritually significant ceremony led by Aurvandill’s clever jester, Heimir the Fool. However, their joyous reunion is short-lived; the very next day, betrayal strikes as Aurvandill’s illegitimate brother, Fjölnir the Brotherless, brutally murders the king, plunders his stronghold, and abducts Gudrún. Devastated and enraged, Amleth escapes by boat, vowing to exact revenge.

Fast forward years later, Amleth is now a fierce berserker living among a volatile group of Vikings. After a violent clash in Gardariki, Amleth encounters a mysterious Seeress in the sacred temple of Svetovit, who prophesizes that revenge on Fjölnir is imminent and that Amleth’s fate is linked to a Maiden-King. Discovering that Fjölnir has been ousted by Harald of Norway and is now living in exile in Iceland, Amleth takes the risk of masquerading as a slave to infiltrate Fjölnir’s realm. Here, he meets the enigmatic Olga of the Birch Forest, a woman who claims to possess magical abilities, and learns that his mother has re-married Fjölnir and given birth to a son, Gunnar.

One fateful night, Amleth encounters a He-witch who facilitates a spiritual reunification with the ghost of Heimir, a suggestion leading Amleth to seek out the legendary Draugr, a powerful sword located at the Gates of Hel. After battling the undead Mound Dweller to claim the enchanted blade, Amleth finds himself drawn into the local customs; he gets selected to join a competitive game of knattleikr against another farm. Though the game escalates into violence and nearly costs Gunnar his life, Amleth rises to the occasion by saving him. In gratitude, Fjölnir’s son, Thórir the Proud, grants Amleth additional privileges, allowing him to select a woman of his choosing.

During a night of revelry, Amleth and Olga share a passionate encounter, pledging to support each other against the treachery of Fjölnir. But chaos ensues when Amleth begins to eliminate Fjölnir’s men while Olga introduces a hallucinogenic element into their meals, further inciting turmoil. In the confusion, Amleth confronts his mother, who chillingly reveals the truth of her past with Aurvandill and her role in Amleth’s conception—one born from violence. She had harbored a desire for both Aurvandill and Amleth to perish, leading to a turbulent climax where Amleth brutally takes Thorir’s life.

As tensions escalate, Gudrún uncovers Amleth’s identity to Fjölnir and urges for his demise. In a desperate move, Fjölnir threatens to kill Olga, prompting Amleth to negotiate her life in exchange for Thorir’s heart. After enduring a savage beating, Amleth is rescued by a gathering of ravens, allowing him to escape with Olga by sea. A prophetic vision emerges, revealing that Olga is carrying twins, one being the destined Maiden-King foretold by the Seeress. Frightened for their future, Amleth determines to confront his uncle, plunging into action despite Olga’s heartfelt pleas.

Back at Fjölnir’s farm, Amleth liberates the captives and embarks on a quest to eliminate Fjölnir’s men. However, an unexpected attack from his mother compels him to drive the Draugr into her heart. Amidst this mayhem, Gunnar fiercely assaults Amleth, but the tables turn, culminating in Amleth’s victory. Consumed by grief and rage upon discovering his wife and son slain, Fjölnir challenges Amleth to a final resolution at the volcano Hekla—where fate awaits in the form of an epic duel. The climactic encounter concludes with Amleth decapitating Fjölnir even as he himself suffers a mortal wound. In his last moments, he envisions Olga cradling their twin children, before a valiant Valkyrie arrives to guide him into Valhalla’s embrace.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of The Northman (2022) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.


King Aurvandill's Return

In AD 895, King Aurvandill triumphantly returns to the island of Hrafnsey after a successful series of conquests. He joyfully reunites with his beloved wife, Queen Gudrún, and their heir, Prince Amleth, celebrating their family’s bonds.

AD 895 Hrafnsey

The Spiritual Ceremony

To prepare Prince Amleth for future responsibilities as king, a spiritually significant ceremony is held, led by Aurvandill's clever jester, Heimir the Fool. This ceremony not only deepens the familial bonds but also underscores the importance of leadership and legacy.

AD 895 Hrafnsey

The Betrayal

Betrayal strikes the family as Fjölnir, Aurvandill's illegitimate brother, brutally murders the king and plunders his stronghold. He also abducts Gudrún, leaving Amleth devastated and vowing to take revenge against those who wronged them.

AD 895 Hrafnsey

Amleth's Escape

Following the traumatic events, young Amleth escapes by boat, propelled by grief and rage. He vows to avenge his father's murder and rescue his mother, setting the stage for his future as a vengeful warrior.

AD 895 Hrafnsey

Amleth as a Berserker

Years have passed, and Amleth has grown into a fierce berserker, living among a volatile group of Vikings. His life is tumultuous and filled with violence, sharpening his skills and resolve for revenge.

Years later Gardariki

The Prophecy

While in the sacred temple of Svetovit, Amleth encounters a mysterious Seeress who prophesizes his revenge against Fjölnir. She also reveals that Amleth's fate is intertwined with a Maiden-King, igniting his determination to fulfill his destiny.

Years later Svetovit Temple

The Infiltration

Learning that Fjölnir is in exile in Iceland after being ousted by Harald of Norway, Amleth takes the daring step to disguise himself as a slave to infiltrate Fjölnir's new realm. This risky maneuver is vital for his quest for revenge.

Years later Iceland

Meeting Olga

During his infiltration, Amleth meets Olga of the Birch Forest, a woman who claims to possess magical abilities. Their encounters deepen, and Olga reveals that Amleth's mother has remarried Fjölnir and given birth to a son named Gunnar.

Years later Fjölnir's Farm

The Encounter with the He-witch

One pivotal night, Amleth encounters a He-witch who facilitates a spiritual reconnection with the ghost of Heimir. This event inspires Amleth to seek out the legendary Draugr, a powerful sword said to grant its wielder extraordinary strength.

Years later Fjölnir's Domain

The Battle for the Sword

Amleth battles the undead Mound Dweller to claim the enchanted blade located at the Gates of Hel. He emerges victorious, acquiring the power that further aids him in his quest for vengeance against Fjölnir.

Years later Gates of Hel

Knattleikr Game

Amleth is selected to participate in a competitive game of knattleikr, which escalates into violence. Despite the chaos, Amleth saves Gunnar's life, which earns him gratitude and privileges within Fjölnir's household.

Years later Fjölnir's Farm

Revelry and Turmoil

During a night of revelry, Amleth and Olga share an intimate moment, pledging to support each other against Fjölnir. However, chaos erupts as Amleth starts eliminating Fjölnir’s men while Olga uses hallucinogens to incite discord.

Years later Fjölnir's Farm

Confronting the Past

In the midst of the chaos, Amleth confronts his mother, Gudrún, who reveals her dark past and her role in his conception. This revelation shatters Amleth and escalates the conflict as he takes drastic actions against Thorir.

Years later Fjölnir's Domain

Fateful Duel

Fjölnir, enraged by the losses, challenges Amleth to a final confrontation at the volcano Hekla. In a dramatic duel, Amleth decapitates Fjölnir but sustains a mortal wound, sealing their fates in a tragic ending.

Final Moments Hekla Volcano

Ascent to Valhalla

As Amleth lies dying, he envisions Olga cradling their twins, fulfilling the prophecy. A Valkyrie appears to guide him into Valhalla, bringing a poignant conclusion to his tumultuous journey of revenge and destiny.

Final Moments Valhalla

Characters

Explore all characters from The Northman (2022). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.


Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård)

Amleth is a fierce and driven character, transformed from a young prince into a relentless berserker. His quest for revenge is fueled by a deep sense of loss and betrayal, pushing him to confront the darker aspects of his character. Despite his anger, there remains a flicker of vulnerability as he navigates relationships with Olga and the ghosts of his past.

🗡️ Warrior 😡 Avenger 🌌 Tormented

Queen Gudrún (Nicole Kidman)

Queen Gudrún is a complex character torn between love and survival. Her marriage to Fjölnir after Aurvandill's death reveals layers of sacrifice and turmoil. Her actions significantly impact Amleth’s quest and add depth to her struggle, embodying the conflict between maternal love and the brutal realities of her choices.

👑 Queen 💔 Torn 🧙‍♀️ Strategic

Olga of the Birch Forest (Anya Taylor-Joy)

Olga is an enigmatic character with magical qualities and a fierce spirit. Her relationship with Amleth adds a layer of emotional complexity, as they forge an alliance against the oppressive forces of Fjölnir. Olga’s blend of strength and vulnerability highlights the power of female agency in the midst of chaos.

🌳 Enigmatic ❤️ Supportive ✨ Magical

Heimir the Fool (Willem Dafoe)

Heimir serves as the clever jester whose insight transcends his role as a mere entertainer. His spiritual guidance and sharp wit provide Amleth with crucial perspectives on fate and revenge. Heimir's presence emphasizes the themes of wisdom and folly intertwined in the pursuit of vengeance.

🤡 Jester 🧙 Wise 🎭 Insightful

Setting

Learn where and when The Northman (2022) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.


Time period

AD 895

Set in AD 895, the film immerses the audience in a period characterized by Viking conquests and brutal power struggles. This time was marked by fierce loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of life as marauding warriors faced the consequences of their actions on family and kingdom. The societal norms and spiritual beliefs of the Viking Age play a crucial role in shaping the characters' destinies.

Location

Hrafnsey, Gardariki, Iceland, Svetovit, volcano Hekla

The movie takes place in various significant locations, starting with the island of Hrafnsey, known for its majestic landscapes and as a royal stronghold. Gardariki is a site of Viking clashes, while the sacred temple of Svetovit serves as a mystical place where prophecies are revealed. Iceland, a land of raw beauty and dramatic volcanoes like Hekla, becomes the backdrop for Amleth's quest for vengeance.

🏞️ Landscapes 🏰 Castles 🌄 Mountains

Themes

Discover the main themes in The Northman (2022). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.


⚔️

Revenge

Revenge is a central theme, driving Amleth’s journey as he seeks to avenge his father's murder. The quest for vengeance leads to a cycle of violence, impacting those around him and culminating in tragic consequences. The moral implications of seeking revenge are explored, showcasing the personal and familial costs involved.

💔

Betrayal

Betrayal permeates the narrative, as Amleth witnesses the treachery of his uncle Fjölnir and the shocking truths about his mother. This theme highlights the fragility of trust within familial bonds, resulting in devastating repercussions that carve paths of conflict and heartbreak for all involved.

🔮

Destiny

Destiny weaves through the film as prophecies and seers shape Amleth's fate. The belief in a preordained path challenges the characters to confront their choices, with the concept of the Maiden-King highlighting the intertwined fates of Amleth and Olga. Their eventual actions reinforce the idea that destiny can be influenced by personal decisions.

The Northman Ending Explained

Unravel the ending of The Northman (2022) with our detailed explanation. Understand the final scenes, character fates, and unresolved questions.


In the final moments of “The Northman,” Amleth faces Fjolnir at the Gates of Hell, a symbolic location referencing the underworld. Despite Fjolnir’s initial dominance, Amleth’s fierce determination and acceptance of his destiny allow him to overpower his enemy. He delivers a decisive blow, beheading Fjolnir and ending his reign of treachery and violence. However, Fjolnir manages to push his sword into Amleth’s heart before collapsing, signifying that the cycle of revenge and violence continues even in death.

As Amleth falls, he envisions his future with Olga and their children, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Olga, who has helped him survive and escape, represents a guiding force and a future where love and kinship might prevail despite the brutal past. In the afterlife, Amleth is depicted as being carried to Valhalla by a Valkyrie, a mythic symbol of honor and warrior’s glory, signifying that he has achieved a form of spiritual victory. The movie concludes with the idea that Amleth’s quest for revenge has transformed him into a mythic hero—sacrificing himself in battle but finding peace in the afterlife, where he will be remembered as a mighty Viking warrior and a protector of his lineage. Ultimately, the film underscores the themes of destiny, renewal, and the cyclical nature of violence, suggesting that the path of revenge is eternal—yet through it, new life and hope can also be born.

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