Martyrdom and Vengeance. Recap: Vikings – “Treachery”

Season 2, Episode 3

Air date: Thursday, March 13, 2014, 10/9c on History

Rating: ★★★★★

“I declare today I will seek vengeance against Ragnar Lothbrook. By all of our gods, I swear that we would seize all his lands and I would repay his brother’s treachery with the ax.” – Jarl Borg

Borg (Harr) is out to exact revenge on Rollo (Standen) and Ragnar (Fimmel)

The Vikings have made it west with high expectations of riches and adventures. Raiding always involves an element of danger but has Ragnar’s (Travis Fimmel) decision to break the agreement with the contentious Jarl Borg (Thorbjørn Harr) put his position in Kattegat at risk, as well as its inhabitants? Just as the episode title hints, loyalties will be tested.

The Vikings don’t waste any time in Wessex, and just like Ragnar hoped, Athelstan (George Blagden) proves an invaluable asset. He eagerly feeds invaluable information to the Northmen regarding their whereabouts, helping them to secure riches.

Auslaug (Alyssa Sutherland) gives birth to Siegert, whose name means “snake in the eye;” that trait is manifested in the baby’s eye. It looks like Auslaug is on her way to establishing her reputation for having supernatural powers.

In spite of a wardrobe upgrade, things aren’t looking great for Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick). Since leaving Kattegat, she’s married an abusive and egotistical earl who enjoys putting down Bjorn in spite of promising to watch after him. The Hunger Games’ Alexander Ludwig makes his Vikings debut as Bjorn just as Ragnar’s son morphs into a hunk of a man. Along with the physical changes, Bjorn is very protective of his mother and doesn’t shed his ability to challenge people and situations. He is also the one to remind his mother to be proud of their past – bravo! Overall, Ludwig does a great job of infusing personality and intensity to Bjorn without overdoing it.

In the meantime, the Vikings make their way into Winchester, an important settlement in Wessex. Ragnar’s natural curiosity prompts him to reach out to Athelstan, who explains some important Christian concepts about sainthood and martyrdom. As the scene unfolds, it’s apparent this isn’t only about the bond between these two men. It’s also a hint of things to come. It is important to note this entire exchange occurs under the watchful eye of Floki (Gustaf Skarsgard), who, from this moment on, doesn’t lose sight of Athelstan. Obviously, Floki doesn’t trust his commitment to Odin.

The most pivotal scenes of “Treachery” now unfold. First, Athelstan has a life-altering incident involving a young monk. Then, the rest of the Vikings orchestrate a spectacle at the expense of the Bishop of Winchester, an incident instigated by Floki – a scene reminiscent of the Renaissance depictions of the martyrdom of San Sebastian.

Based on the individual and merciful actions Athelstan and Ragnar take during the raid, it’s clear they don’t approve of the circus that unfolds. I predict Floki will continue to torment Athelstan, and repercussions for the actions taken during the Winchester Church sequence will be taken in upcoming episodes.

King Ecbert (Roach) seems well-informed about the “ruffians” who have invaded his kingdom.

Horik (Donal Logue) and Ragnar also spend some time together and have an interesting conversation about the pleasantness and richness of the English soil. However, there is something in Horik’s answers that tells me he finds Ragnar, the farmer, too naïve. Ragnar seems interested in crafting a deal that will allow the Northmen to farm on Anglo-Saxon lands, but I’m not sure whether this is in line with King Horik’s agenda. Given the arrogant manner in which the ruler purposely showcases his brutality, this alliance will continue to create problems for Ragnar.

As Ragnar and his men are out to dominate Wessex, boats speedily approach Kattegat and this isn’t a good thing. It turns out Jarl Borg is about to make good on the promise he makes during the wedding toast – he’s going after Ragnar’s lands and intends to kill Rollo (Clive Standen). Did anyone pick up on Borg’s hint of bringing up his wife’s family during his toast and revenge announcement? He says this as if they’re also an important family; I’ll be on the lookout to see if this comes to play soon.

With Borg approaching, Rollo mobilizes the entire village—men and women, young and old—and they all step in to defend their home. As Kattegat’s fighting and protection plans are under way, I’m completely fascinated by the sequence—the barricades the villagers set up to slow down invaders, the places where they store their weapons, etc. It’s a shame the Vikings don’t utilize fire more with the archers but in following the thematic of the show and how Vikings think, I wonder if their fate may have already been decided. I don’t think this is true for all, especially Rollo. He perks up at hearing his first duty “is to save the sons of Ragnar.” As Rollo watches the body count rise and Kattegat destroyed, will it be possible for him to find his purpose again?

Back in Kattegat, Rollo (Standen) and Siggy (Jessalyn Gilsig) will have to face some tough decisions.

With “Treachery” ending with Borg proudly laughing at what he’s accomplished, I must pause here to comment on Ragnar’s nemeses this season. I’m loving the carefully concocted storylines surrounding them! Kudos to the casting crew for adding such strong character actors as Harr and Roach, who know how to add layers to their characters that would otherwise be stereotypical bad guys. Harr is terrific as the intense and relentless Borg. His intense hatred for Rollo and Ragnar is palpable, especially during the scenes approaching Kattegat. His body language, stance, and tone leave no doubt he intends to make the brothers pay. Roach is such a delight as a cold and cerebral ruler who not only is well-informed about the “ruffians” who have invaded his kingdom, but is both experienced and conniving as well. The Charlemagne tie-in is such a powerful addition to the character’s backstory. He seems to enjoy bathing a bit too much, doesn’t he?

With “Treachery,” Hirst and crew have delivered yet again another well-thought, action-packed, pivotal episode. Ragnar’s significant miscalculation in his handling of Borg and over-favoring of Horik will cause all the main characters to be thrown into a frenzy. In addition, let’s not lose sight that King Ecbert appears to be cooking up his own plan on how to handle the Vikings as he seizes them up first. It sure looks like Ragnar’s life, as well as those in Kattegat, is about to be severely altered.

What did you think of “Treachery?” Leave me a comment below or tweet me @LutzElle to discuss.

For more on the show, go to http://www.history.com/shows/vikings.

Follow Vikings on Twitter @HistoryVikings using hashtag #Vikings, as well as some of the cast members— @gblagden, @KatherynWinnick, and @CliveStanden.

Like Vikings on Facebook.

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elleL

Soaker of life. I like to experience things and see the world. I consider myself a professional traveler. My love for movies and television goes way back but I'm a sucker for action-oriented films and shows. Oh, and I make excellent martinis! Follow me on twitter @LutzElle.