Ep 1. Rites of Passage

The show Vikings season 1 episode 1 is a thrilling adventure into the ancient world of the Norse warrior culture. The episode is named Rites of Passage, and it introduces us to the characters and world of the Vikings.

The episode opens with a dramatic sequence of a Viking longship sailing across the open sea. We see the Vikings rowing their oars in unison, their hair and beards whipping in the wind, and the waves crashing against the ship's bow. We are then introduced to Ragnar Lothbrok, the show's protagonist, a young farmer who is also an ambitious warrior. He is restless and eager to explore the world beyond his small village. Ragnar's brother, Rollo, is also a warrior and is fiercely loyal to his brother.

Ragnar, along with his friend Floki, a peculiar and eccentric shipbuilder, is determined to sail westward, beyond the known world. However, their chieftain, Earl Haraldson, is against this idea and wants to continue raiding the east. Nevertheless, Ragnar is determined to forge his own path and embarks on a secret journey to the west with a small crew.

In the west, Ragnar discovers a new land full of treasures and resources that could benefit his people back home. Along the way, they encounter fierce resistance from the locals. However, Ragnar and his men prove to be fierce warriors and manage to conquer the enemy tribe.

Back home, Ragnar is met with mixed reactions; some are envious of his success, while others fear the wrath of Earl Haraldson. Ragnar's family is also highly valued, and his wife Lagertha is a shield-maiden and a fierce warrior in her own right. Ragnar and Lagertha have two children, Bjorn and Gyda. We see how important family ties are in Viking culture and how each member of the family has a crucial role to play in the community.

The episode's title, Rites of Passage, refers to the ceremony where young boys become warriors. We see Ragnar's son Bjorn participate in this ceremony, where he has to endure physical and emotional challenges to prove his worth as a warrior. The ceremony is a crucial event in Viking culture and marks the transition from boyhood to manhood.

Overall, the episode sets up the show's themes of adventure, family, and the clash of cultures. It portrays the Viking culture as one of fierce warriors who are also deeply rooted in tradition and honor. The show's attention to detail is evident in the costumes, props, and sets, which accurately convey the brutality and beauty of this ancient world.

In conclusion, Vikings season 1 episode 1, Rites of Passage, is a thrilling and epic introduction to the world of the Vikings. It sets up the show's major themes, characters, and conflicts and leaves us eager to see what adventures Ragnar and his crew will embark on next.