Ep 7. The Profit and the Loss

The Profit and the Loss is the 7th episode of the fourth season of Vikings. This episode begins with the aftermath of the battle between the Viking army led by Bjorn and Rollo's fortified fortress in France. While the Viking army has managed to breach the walls of the stronghold, they are still facing a fierce resistance by the Franks who are led by Rollo.

In this episode, we see the aftermath of the brutal battle as the Vikings try to regroup and deal with their wounded. Bjorn is hailed as a hero for leading the successful attack and is seen to have taken a step closer to his father Ragnar's legendary stature as a warrior. But the victory is not complete as the Franks, led by Rollo, still pose a significant threat.

Meanwhile, back in Kattegat, Aslaug continues to rule combatively as Ragnar remains absent. She forcibly takes over lands that were not rightfully hers and punishes those who resist her rule. Her actions make her increasingly unpopular among the people of Kattegat, and it is evident that she is not fit to rule.

In Wessex, King Ecbert has reconnected with Judith, who is still married to his son Aethelwulf. Their long-standing affair is rekindled, and it seems that Ecbert is finally willing to acknowledge his true desires. But his actions have repercussions, and Aethelwulf finds out about their affair, leading to significant tension between the men.

Overall, The Profit and the Loss is an episode that emphasizes the cost of war. While the Vikings have managed to breach the walls of the stronghold and assert their dominance, they have suffered significant casualties and are still struggling to sustain their momentum. It is a reminder that even victories come at a cost and that there are always losses, both material and emotional.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of leadership and morality. Aslaug's harsh rule in Kattegat highlights the dangers of leaders who lose sight of their duty to the people they govern. Her actions lead to resentment and disillusionment among her people, highlighting the importance of just and fair leadership.

In contrast, Bjorn's leadership on the battlefield is admirable as he puts his life on the line to ensure that his people can achieve their goals. He understands the cost of war but refuses to back down despite the odds against his people. His actions inspire his men and emphasize the importance of leaders who are willing to fight for what they believe in.

Finally, The Profit and the Loss is an episode that showcases the complexities of human relationships. King Ecbert's affair with Judith highlights the desire for connection and companionship, even if it comes at the cost of others' happiness. It also showcases the tensions that exist within families and the dangers of infidelity and betrayal.

Overall, The Profit and the Loss is a compelling episode that showcases the human cost of war and the importance of strong leadership and moral values. It sets up significant developments for the characters and is a must-watch for fans of the series.