VIKINGS 3.08 – ‘To The Gates’ Ragnar’s Greed & Floki’s Meltdown

Our favorite Northmen raid Paris and Lagertha leads the charge. Folki is gleeful in his anticipation of battle and exclaims “The gods are with us! The gods are wit us!” Sadly that tune will change all too soon.

Count Odo prepares for the defense of Paris while the King cowers on his throne behind an iron mask. Princess Gisla for her part doesn’t plan on sitting through the attack cowering in a corner. She inspires the men in a most creative fashion by raising the Sacred Banner and reminding the men what they are fighting for.

The effect on the soldiers is immediate and everyone feels it. Floki most of all. I didn’t know Vikings could have panic attacks. Rollo, for his part took one look at Gisla and launched himself at her in true beserker style.

For all their bravado, the Northmen took on incredible casualties and the attack was successfully repelled. Most everyone had a near death experience. Rollo falls from a great height while Bjorn took two arrows through the shoulders. Lagertha is saved by Kalf. Now! That was a surprise! While Ragnar took an monumental beating falling from the scaffolding!

The Viking King’s look over Paris at the end reminded me much of Smeagol with the ring. If he had uttered “My Precious “ I wouldn’t have been surprised at all. Did all this pain dissuade him from the object of his affection? Of course not! Ragnar went apart to have a heart-to-heart with his old friend Athelstan.

Meanwhile Floki nearly kills himself in his shame and winds up literally sitting in a pool of his own misery. Poor Floki. He needed a hug and a Kleenex. Helga, much to her credit, totally called Bullshit on him! Dude! It’s not about you! Somewhere I am sure Odin is laughing.

I am loving those moments Vikings gives us of Ragnar’s heart. It reveals another deeper layer that helps you understand the man. It is very clear that “The fury of a patient man” was a reference to Floki. Truly Ragnar is playing the long game with him. He ends his conversation with “I wish you were here.” Don’t we all! I feel if Athelstan were alive things would have gone differently.

Observations
• Rollo and Gisla. I feel there is a storyline there, especially with the words from the Seer.
• Where is Porunn going?
• Lagertha’s deal with Kalf was glorious.