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"King Alfred: Beocca... You should wash out your mouth.
Father Beocca: Yes Lord, I will. With ale."
—Alfred to Beocca[src]

Beocca was a main character in both The Saxon Stories novel series, and The Last Kingdom television series. Beocca was a priest in the household of Ealdorman Uhtred. He re-baptised Uhtred after Uhtred's name was changed from Osbert, following the death of Uhtred.

Years after being captured by Danes, Uhtred encountered Beocca in Wessex, serving Alfred. He later falls in love and marries Thyra after helping rescue her from her captivity.

Biography[]

The Saxon Stories[]

(To Be Added)

The Last Kingdom[]

Season 1[]

At the beginning of the series, Beocca is the mass priest at the fortress of Bebbanburg, located in the Kingdom of Northumbria. He serves under the Ealdorman Uhtred, and gives spiritual guidance to Uhtred's two sons, Uhtred and Osbert. He has a good relationship with Osbert, even though the young boy doesn't seem to take religion too seriously. After the Danes arrive Beocca, along with young Osbert, witness the Dane warrior Earl Ragnar the Fearless ride up to the gates of Bebbanburg and presents Uhtred with the head of his eldest son. Since their family tradition has the eldest son take the name Uhtred, Lord Uhtred renames Osbert as Uhtred upon the death of his son, and Beocca insists on re-baptizing Osbert, so he will be recognized as Uhtred in Heaven. ("Episode 1.1")

Beocca accompanies Ealdorman Uhtred and the warriors of Bebbanburg to Eoferwic (York) in order to join forces with the two Northumbrian kings and battle the invading Danes. Beocca watches on in horror as the forces of Bebbanburg are soundly defeated by the Danes, and Ealdorman Uhtred himself is killed. Young Uhtred becomes a prisoner of Earl Ragnar the Fearless, and Beocca attends the negotiations with Uhtred's uncle, Ælfric, who seeks to become the Ealdorman of Bebbanburg, despite Uhtred being the rightful heir. Beocca warns Uhtred that if his uncle succeeds in ransoming him back, he will be killed so Ælfric can rule Bebbanburg, and he urges Uhtred to escape and find him in Winchester, located in the Kingdom of Wessex. ("Episode 1.1")

Many years have past, and Beocca is now serving as priest and advisor to Alfred of Wessex, brother to King Æthelred. Beocca consoles Alfred, who believes he is a sinner beyond redemption for laying with women outside his marriage bed and wants to withdraw from Wessex's court life. Beocca insists he remain and resist the temptations of Winchester, thus proving to God that he is a worthy servant. When Uhtred arrives in Wessex, Beocca greets him and vouches for him with Alfred. He does his best to convince Alfred that Uhtred is trustworthy, despite him being a pagan. Beocca also shows Uhtred that before leaving Bebbanburg he had saved the Charters of Bebbanburg, the land books which prove that Uhtred is the rightful Ealdorman of Bebbanburg, not his Uncle Ælfric. ("Episode 1.2")

Brida and Uhtred remain locked in a cell. Beocca informs them that Alfred was victorious in their battle against the Danes, and Beocca will see to it that they are released. However, Brida continues to grow more impatient with every moment. She even sarcastically remarks that Uhtred is a hero of Wessex. ("Episode 1.3")

After the death of King Æthelred, Beocca appeals to the new king Alfred to trust Uhtred and to take him into his service. He does his best to advise Uhtred to show respect and to behave as an Ealdorman, as well as for him not to underestimate Alfred's intelligence. ("Episode 1.3")

When Uhtred marries Mildrith at King Alfred's request, Beocca presides over the ceremony. ("Episode 1.4")

Leofric and Uhtred arrive in Winchester to inform the council that the Danes are crossing through Wessex. Uhtred explains that he has no warriors. Most of his men work the fields. If Werham is captured, the Danes will grow immensely. Uhtred suggests they march now. Alfred is in agreement with Uhtred and decides they will indeed march. After the meeting, Uhtred tells Beocca to arrange a private meeting between him and the king. ("Episode 1.4")

Word of Werham’s fall has spread, and so King Alfred, Uhtred, Odda, Young Odda, Beocca and Leofric prepare for war. They stand outside of the fortress’ gates. Young Ragnar and Guthrum exit. Alfred, Odda, Leofric, and Father Selbix head down the field to speak with them. Guthrum proposes a truce. He’s decided to leave by sea. Therefore, he will send for 15 ships. Alfred gives them a month to arrive and offers food and ale for that time. ("Episode 1.4")

Alfred asks about the men in the camp. He worries that he doesn’t inspire them and that they don’t see him as a warrior. Beocca then notices Young Odda, Leofric, and Wulfhere approaching. He informs them that the Ubba and the Danes have been defeated. Young Odda hands Alfred Ubba's axe as proof of his demise. King Alfred is certain that Guthrum will now retreat. Wessex is saved. ("Episode 1.5")

Beocca is thrilled to see that he is alive, as the last he heard of Uhtred, he was a hostage at Werham. Uhtred then explains how he escaped and fought at Cynuit. When Uhtred realizes that he has not been credited for his actions against Ubba, he bursts into the prayer hall to confront Alfred. Beocca tries to prevent Uhtred from interrupting a prayer service the king is holding, but is unsuccessful. He later witnesses Uhtred's punishment for breaking Alfred's peace. ("Episode 1.5")

Beocca arrives with a message from Bishop Alewold. It claims that Uhtred slayed a villager and is refusing to pay the monies owed to the family. Alfred orders Young Odda to investigate. ("Episode 1.6")

Uhtred and Iseult arrive in Winchester for the Witan. Beocca greets Uhtred at the courtyard. Beocca and the others are aware of his plunder. Beocca is present at a hearing to determine Uhtred's guilt for raiding into Cornwalum and attacking the Britons there. ("Episode 1.6")

Beocca is present when Guthrum's army attacks Winchester and flees with the rest of the people there. Later, he joins Uhtred and King Alfred, who are hiding from the Danes in the marshlands outside of Wessex. When the monk Brother Asser attempts to dissuade King Alfred from accepting Uhtred's help and advice regarding the coming battle with the Danes, Beocca strongly supports Uhtred, telling the king that he will follow Uhtred into battle and will serve as his conduit to God. ("Episode 1.7")

Beocca takes part in the great Battle of Ethandun, fighting alongside Uhtred in the front lines. He witnesses the death of Iseult, Uhtred's woman, and vows that his spear will be the weapon that kills Skorpa, the man who beheaded Iseult. After Uhtred breaks the Danes' shield wall, Beocca throws Uhtred his spear which he uses to kill Skorpa, thus making his prophecy come true. Guthrum, seeing that Beocca correctly foretold the manner of Skorpa's death, loses heart and gives up on the battle. After seeing the power of Beocca's God, Guthrum decides to become a Christian, and it is Beocca himself who baptises him. ("Episode 1.8")

Season 2[]

Beocca attends a Witan in Winchester. To keep Wessex safe, they must look beyond its borders, where Christians suffer under the same rule of the Danes. There are two Northmen, Sigefrid and Erik, two Godless brothers with a voracious appetite for land, silver, slaves and war. Alfred wants it known that God, Alfred and the Ealdormen of Wessex are watching them. ("Episode 2.1")

Father Beocca reunites with Uhtred while traveling North to free a slave. This slave is marked to become a king. His name is Guthred. The spirit of Saint Cuthbert has decreed that Guthred shall be king. Beocca asks Uhtred, Hild, and Halig to join them. Their bargain is with his slave-master. The village in which they are meeting sits on land that belongs to Sven. Sven's land will be full of warriors. For protection, they have gathered a group of sickly men, who suffer with the White Riff. Leprosy is a terrible curse that no man dare approach. Uhtred suspects that should Guthred rise to the throne, he would be prepared to raise an army against Sven, so he is willing to help. ("Episode 2.1")

Beocca, Hild, Halig, and Brother Trew arrive at the slave market to buy Guthred. However, Gelgill, the slave trader demands they hand over the ransom first. He and Sven also show an interest in Hild and tell her to take off her skirt, but she refuses. Fiske then informs Sven that there are horsemen missing. He counted five more horses than those present. Beocca claims that the men that were with them were not men of their world. Beocca claims to speak of them will summon them. With his identity hidden under a skull, Uhtred and several lepers arrive on horseback and claim that they've come to take the Danes’ souls. Uhtred subdues Sven and orders everyone to leave. As Gelgill is fleeing, he is stabbed in the back and killed by Hild. Beocca pleads with Uhtred to spare Sven, who is begging for his life. Father Beocca and Brother Trew call out for Guthred. He emerges from the crowd and they take him home. ("Episode 2.1")

Uhtred, Hild, Halig, and Beocca arrive in Cumbraland. They enter the church for the royal oath, which shall be sworn upon the corpse of the blessed Saint Cuthbert himself. Saint Cuthbert’s casket is brought in and the Abbot prays over his body. ("Episode 2.1")

Beocca and Uhtred share a jug of ale as tomorrow, Beocca will be returning to Winchester. He has the teeth belonging to Saint Cuthbert as protection. He makes Uhtred promise him that he won’t do anything stupid. Lastly, Beocca warns Uhtred to stay away from Gisela, as she has a higher purpose. He should tread carefully as Brother Trew and the Abbot don’t trust him. Some time after returning to Winchester, Father Beocca learns that Uhtred was taken to be a slave. He is willing to search for him, but Alfred sends Ragnar. ("Episode 2.2")

Uhtred visits Beocca in the temple. He wants Beocca to marry him to Gisela before they ride off to Eoferwic. Uhtred loves Gisela, and so Beocca tells him to bring her to him and to be quick and discreet. Father Beocca marries Uhtred and Gisela in the temple. He bounds their hand and they kiss. ("Episode 2.4")

Finan, Uhtred, Ragnar, Hild, Æthelwold, Steapa, and Beocca head to Eoferwic. But first, they stop in Loidis, where they reunite with Brida. They proceed to find Sigefrid and Erik’s camp, where Uhtred, Finan, and Steapa go in alone. They take out three guards. Uhtred then enters Sigefrid’s tent, cuts off Sigefrid's hand and forces the brothers to leave the land. ("Episode 2.4")

They lead an army of men to Dunholm. They arrive just outside the fortress and breach the East wall. They invade the fortress, killing many men. Then, Ragnar kills Kjartan. After winning the battle, they plan to return to Wessex. ("Episode 2.4")

Thyra exits with her hounds. She blames Ragnar and Uhtred for not coming to her rescue. She says that the price for her life is theirs. Father Beocca intervenes. He forbids her from killing Uhtred and Ragnar. He extends his hand and offers to help her. Thyra screams and runs back inside. Beocca finds Thyra in her cell with her hounds. He introduces himself and explains that he’s known Uhtred since he was a boy. Beocca explains that Uhtred and Ragnar have wanted for so long to find her. She has God given strength, and he only wishes to help her. Thyra tells him to stay. She recalls when Uhtred saved her from Sven when they were younger. ("Episode 2.4")

Winchester, Wessex; Father Beocca and Father Pyrlig discuss the upcoming wedding and Thyra, who Pyrlig refers to as a strange beauty. He adds that there is no finer sight than that of a naked woman, arms outstretched. They join Alfred in his Reading Room. He reads of the raids in Daneland. Alfred tasks Father Pyrlig with traveling to East Anglia to deliver a letter to King Æthelstan. ("Episode 2.5")

Uhtred crosses paths with Father Beocca, who seeks his advice with Thyra. She is well, but she must leave. Possibly join Uhtred in Coccham or Ragnar in Dunholm. He can’t think, work, or sleep with her around. He is attracted to her and she can’t be around because of that. Uhtred tells Beocca to marry Thyra as he is her happiness. ("Episode 2.5")

Beocca asks Thyra to marry him. She has become someone that she cannot live without. She accepts his proposal to marriage and kisses Beocca. ("Episode 2.5")

Uhtred marries Father Beocca and Thyra. Hild says a prayer for the two of them. Hopefully, this union can show that Wessex is a land for all people. He later officiates the royal wedding between Æthelflæd and Æthelred. ("Episode 2.6")

Æthelred, Æthelflæd, Beocca, Thyra, and Aldhelm ride in a boat to Coccham. Æthelred tells Beocca that he fears that he isn’t the first to lie in bed with his wife. He asks if there’s a way to test her purity. Beocca admits that there is a way, from the holy books. Æthelred orders that it be done immediately. ("Episode 2.6")

Father Beocca and Hild determine if Æthelflæd has been unfaithful to Æthelred. Beocca prepares the bitter waters. A mixture of God's water and God's earth shall be drunk. If thou hast gone aside to another man, the Lord shall make thy thigh to rot and thy belly to swell. Æthelflæd reaches for the water, but Beocca knocks it over as he knows Æthelflæd to be pure. Thyra asks Æthelflæd if her husband beats her. If he does not, she can already see that he will. Æthelred is neither tending nor loving. Hild wants Beocca to tell the king, but Æthelflæd wants to fulfill her duty to unite the lands. The following day, he joins Uhtred in an attack against the brothers, however, they realize that while attacking London, the brothers are attacking the camp. ("Episode 2.6")

Beocca returnd to camp to find it in ruins. Beocca and Steapa call out to Thyra and Æthelflæd, respectively. Thyra emerges from the woods and runs into Beocca’s arms. Uhtred then asks her about Æthelflæd, but Thyra is unaware of her whereabouts. ("Episode 2.7")

After the Witan, where Beocca defended Uhtred, he then tells Uhtred that he asked the king to exclude him from Uhtred’s journey to Beamfleot. He feels shame for abandoning him, but Uhtred tells Beocca that his place is in Winchester with Thyra. ("Episode 2.7")

Winchester learns of the brothers’ ransom. They want 3,000 lbs of silver and 500 lbs of gold. The first of the metal is to be delivered by the next full moon, the remaining amount one month later. Odda remarks that this is an impossible amount and the entire wealth of Wessex. Without the money, Æthelflæd will be humped by every Dane as far as the eye can see. Alfred refuses to allow his daughter to be whored to the highest bidder. Odda fears that Wessex will not survive the negotiation. Beocca retorts that God will never allow that to happen and that they will triumph. Alfred states that the metal will be paid in full. ("Episode 2.8")

Season 3[]

Winchester, Wessex; Alfred worries that when he dies, he’ll be going to purgatory rather than heaven. Nothing has changed since he’s been crowned, as the Danes still rummage the lands. Beocca explains that he is the Lord’s King. Without Alfred, there would be no churches or even an idea of an England. He has laid the foundation for a country for all. And when he’s gone, Beocca will see to it that it continues. ("Episode 3.1")

Hæsten arrives in Winchester and informs them of a Dane warrior named Sigurd, who goes by the name of Bloodhair. Hæsten has given his word to the king and has declined all offers to join Bloodhair. Hæsten claims that his wife and children wish to become Christian, and he’s asked Beocca to arrange it. Uhtred is certain that Bloodhair will raid and encourages Alfred to attack first. Alfred, however, throws up on the floor. He continues to grow ill. Alfred agrees that they shall march. He orders Beocca to send word to Æthelred. They will join him at the Burh of Aescengum. ("Episode 3.1")

Hæsten asks about Æthelflæd and who her child resembles, suggesting that it may be Erik's seed. Beocca reminds Hæsten that he’s in Æthelflæd’s debt. He only has men and ships because she killed Sigefrid. Hæsten hasn’t forgotten what she did and prays that they meet again someday. He then informs Uhtred of Skade, who is a seer. Once Hæsten is gone, Uhtred asks about Alfred’s health, which has only gotten worse. Which is why Uhtred must prepare Edward. ("Episode 3.1")

The men of Wessex meet the Mercian guard on the battlefield, where they defeat the Danes and force them to retreat. ("Episode 3.1")

Beocca takes Uhtred to see Alfred after he discovers that Uhtred desecrated Gisela’s grave. Uhtred flees after accidentally killing a monk that referred to Gisela as a whore. Beocca finds Uhtred and presents him with Alfred’s demands. There will be no trial. He wants 100 pieces of wergild, and Uhtred must swear an oath to Edward. Finan replies that the king asks for too much. Regardless of all else, Beocca reminds Uhtred that it is because of Alfred that he has had a good life in Wessex. He tells Uhtred to make a choice: either accept his punishment or allow his friends to kill each other. ("Episode 3.2")

Uhtred meets with Alfred. While he is willing to pay the wergild, he can’t swear himself to Edward. Such an oath would be for the rest of his life. When Alfred refuses to release Uhtred, he pulls a blade from his armor and holds it to Alfred’s neck, ordering Steapa to stay back. Beocca is taken by surprise though he ensures that Ælswith and Edward remain unharmed. Ælswith orders Steapa to kill Uhtred, but Beocca insists that no one move. Alfred informs Uhtred that this can mean nothing but his certain death. Uhtred then exits with Alfred as his hostage, but the King returns to the hall and orders Uhtred to be killed. ("Episode 3.2")

Unlike Beocca, Thyra sides with Uhtred, reasoning that Alfred didn’t give him much of a choice. Alfred ignored Uhtred’s pain. If Edward is being prepared to take the crown then Uhtred knows that Alfred’s death is near. That is what he will tell the Danes. ("Episode 3.2")

Word of Uhtred’s abandonment and Alfred’s weakening has spread. Alfred wishes to put an end to the rumors. Beocca suggests a party of sorts. Perhaps a betrothal for Edward. Ælswith assures Alfred that he will see the birth of England, but they both know he won’t see another year, so they must move forward and find Edward a suitable match. Ælswith assures him that their children will build an England for him to be proud of. ("Episode 3.2")

Alfred continues to document his life as king. He tasks Beocca with looking into possible suitors for Edward. Ælswith tells Beocca that it is not the daughter they are choosing, but rather her father and their standing. She tells Beocca that he will choose Lord Æthelhelm. ("Episode 3.3")

Bishop Erkenwald alerts Beocca that Edward claims to already be married. Beocca reports to Alfred, and the two of them confront Edward. He admits that he is married to Ecgwynn. Alfred demands the name of the priest or he will send for the girl. Edward refuses to do either, adding that he also doesn’t wish to become king. Alfred exclaims that it’s his duty. He then orders Bishop Erkenwald to escort Edward to the nearest monastery. ("Episode 3.3")

Alfred asks Beocca about Uhtred’s children. Beocca explains that Hild is proving for them. Alfred denounces Coccham as Uhtred’s estate and wants both children brought to Winchester, where they will receive education and knowledge of God. ("Episode 3.3")

Beocca returns home, where Thyra and Sable await. Sable informs them that King Æthelred has conspired to kill Lady Æthelflæd, and so she has hidden in a nunnery in Wincelcumb. She tells them that they can’t tell the king as Æthelflæd doesn’t want the bond between the two lands to break. Thyra agrees on Beocca’s behalf to help. In the second letter, Æthelflæd has a solution. She has arranged a ship that is waiting for them on the Temes, to Dunholm, in order to find Uhtred. ("Episode 3.3")

Beocca and Thyra travel by ship to Dunholm to retrieve Uhtred. Thyra tells him how she and her mother traveled by ship to get to the land. Beocca worries that the memories of Dunholm will overwhelm Thyra, but she insists that she’ll be fine and that she’s a different woman now. They suddenly spot Hæsten and his men leaving Dunholm. Beocca and Thyra arrive and Ragnar greets them. Beocca informs Ragnar and Brida that he’s come to carry out the king’s order and formally banish Uhtred from Wessex. ("Episode 3.3")

Father Beocca informs Uhtred that he’s actually come on behalf of Æthelflæd, as Æthelred is planning to have her killed. Uhtred claims this is not his concern, but he is bothered by this news nonetheless. Beocca also reveals that before arriving here with Hæsten and Bloodhair, Æthelwold stopped in Merica to see Æthelred. He presumes that the plan is to make Æthelwold the next king of Wessex. And with Hæsten returning south, they soon he will know Æthelflæd is in hiding. Beocca reminds Uhtred of the promise he made to Æthelflæd that he would come to her aid when she called on him. Furthermore, he is the man she trusts most. ("Episode 3.3")

Bloodhair challenges Uhtred to a fight to the death with Skade as the reward. Uhtred disarms Bloodhair and is moments away from killing him before Ragnar intervenes and calls an end to the battle. Ragnar tells Uhtred to take Skade and leave. Skade remarks that Uhtred has defeated Bloodhair twice and she now belongs to him. ("Episode 3.4")

Beocca and Thyra must now part ways with Uhtred. They have a ship waiting at Eoferwic. He tells Uhtred not to get himself killed until Æthelflæd is safe. She is important to the king and all Saxons. After she is safe, faith will decide the rest. Thyra tells Uhtred that no matter what, he will always be her brother. ("Episode 3.4")

Beocca and Steapa follow Alfred to Aegelesburg, where a Witan has requested Uhtred and Æthelflæd. Edward has come in place of the king. Father Beocca and Pyrlig explain that Edward speaks and answers for Alfred. Æthelflæd claims that Danes are near and it was Hæsten who attacked her. Æthelred and Æthelhelm question how Uhtred knew where to find Æthelflæd. He accuses Uhtred of making a plan with Hæsten in order to gain Æthelflæd’s trust. Alfred joins them and demands the truth. Uhtred wants 1,000 men and he will give them Beamfleot and peace. Alfred denies Uhtred's proposal. ("Episode 3.5")

Edward and Father Pyrlig find Beocca and tell him that they’re willing to give Uhtred half of the men he asked for. He fears a great battle now will result in defeat. But if they were to weaken the Danes, as Uhtred suggested, they could stand a chance. Beocca and Pyrlig take Edward to find Uhtred and Æthelflæd as he has a proposition to offer. Edward offers Uhtred 500 men or more. He tells Uhtred to set a day for the attack and he will be there. ("Episode 3.5")

Edward tells Alfred that he’s given his word to Uhtred to expect an army at Beamfleot. Alfred wants Beocca to inform Uhtred that Edward has withdrawn his support. Edward refuses to back down and begs his father to listen to him. Should the Danes join armies, there will be a great battle, which Edward isn’t ready for. And he fears the aftermath of a great battle will be too much for him. Beocca agrees with Edward in delaying a greater battle. Alfred concedes, ordering his men to prepare for battle at Beamfleot. ("Episode 3.5")

Off in the woods, Alfred, Edward, Steapa, Beocca, and the Wessex guard watch as Uhtred and his men are surrounded by Hæsten and an army of Danes. They do nothing as Uhtred and his men are attacked. Edward wishes to attack but Alfred insists that they hold their position. ("Episode 3.5")

Edward takes charge and leads Beocca, Steapa, and the Wessex guard into battle. They overcome the Danes and win the battle. Afterward, they return to Winchester. As much as it pains Alfred to say it, Edward will need Uhtred when he is gone. He tells this to Beocca in secret. However, Uhtred must remain an outlaw until Alfred is dead. He would also like for Beocca to act as Edward’s counsel and push him towards Uhtred when necessary. ("Episode 3.6")

Edward prepares to meet Ælflæd. Ælswith tells him not to fret, and Beocca assures him she will be a fitting match. Æthelhelm then enters with his daughter Ælflæd. Later, Beocca attends the Witan, in which Alfred sentences Æthelwold to have his eye removed for betraying Wessex. ("Episode 3.7")

Æthelwold asks how Alfred is doing. Alfred is prepared for whatever may come, Beocca replies. Æthelwold claims that Alfred and Edward are in his prayers daily. He wonders what comes of Beocca once Alfred dies. Beocca replies that he’s prepared and that God will take care of him. Æthelwold reminds him of his wife and how she’ll need protection as well. Beocca leaves as Sigebriht arrives. ("Episode 3.8")

Sigebriht confronts Father Beocca with a rumor that Uhtred seeks revenge against Alfred for being outlawed. And should Alfred die, he will kill Edward. Beocca questions the validity of these claims, as he doesn’t believe that Uhtred intends to do any such thing. Beocca then returns home, where he tells Thyra that he almost wishes Alfred would die. The more he lingers, the more anxious people become. Thyra remarks that he should end it himself. It is what a Sword-Dane would do. Whatever happens after Alfred’s death, is fate. Beocca also fears that if the Danes come to Wessex then people will only see her as a Dane. Thyra isn’t concerned as the Gods will protect her. ("Episode 3.8")

Beocca finds Finan and Osferth in the company of women and demands to know where is Uhtred. Finan responds that Uhtred is nearby. He then asks Beocca why is Æthelwold not dead. Beocca reveals that Æthelwold’s been forgiven by the king. As for Uhtred, Finan tells him to go home. ("Episode 3.8")

Beocca returns home to find Thyra and Uhtred awaiting his arrival. Uhtred explains that he’s come for Thyra’s blood to save Ragnar. Beocca sees this as nothing more than heathen paganism and will not stand for it. However, Thyra is insistent on saving her brother. She begs him to understand her, just as she understands his God. Beocca remains upset and goes outside until they finish. He comes back inside and asks that Uhtred speak with Alfred. Æthelwold and Sigebriht outside of Beocca’s house. They claim that Uhtred is inside his home and wish to take a look. However, Beocca and Pyrlig refuse to allow them to pass. Finan and Sihtric arrive, joining Beocca and Pyrlig. Thyra exits the house and tells Æthelwold that he’s welcome to look inside. Æthelwold and Sigebriht enter their home though Uhtred is nowhere in sight. Unbeknownst to them, Uhtred remains hidden under the floorboards. ("Episode 3.8")

Alfred prepares for the arranged marriage. While today is about stability, Beocca tells the king that the fear must be dispatched. It exists in every man and woman who fears life without their king, and Edward alone is not the answer, which is why even Alfred prays that Uhtred returns. Beocca reveals that Uhtred is in fact in Winchester. He can either have him found and executed or speak with him. Alfred asks Beocca to bring Uhtred to him. ("Episode 3.8")

Father Beocca confronts Tidman after Thyra returns home in tears. He warns him to steer clear of his wife or else he will personally see to it that Tidman is no longer a concern. When Tidman continues, Beocca head butts him, knocking him to the ground and continuing his assault. He warns Tidman against crossing him ever again. It takes Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth to separate the two. ("Episode 3.9")

Beocca learns from Ælswith that Alfred has passed. She refuses to accept that he’s gone as he hasn’t yet united England. Ælswith wishes to withhold Alfred’s death from the public, but Beocca encourages her to tell the people so that they mourn as well. Moving forward, they will pray to Alfred and God. Beocca adjusts Alfred’s hair and kisses his forehead, telling Alfred that he loves him and that heaven is his reward. ("Episode 3.9")

With Alfred gone, Beocca no longer has a role. Bishop Erkenwald has agreed that Alfred may speak at the king’s service, but that must be his final duty within the palace, as Beocca is bonded with heathens such as Uhtred. And Edward must be God’s king. Despite having it in Alfred’s writing that Uhtred has been pardoned, Ælswith informs Beocca that it is to be rescinded. Beocca warns Ælswith that she’s making a mistake by rescinding Royal pardon. The Danes will hear about it and it will embolden them. ("Episode 3.9")

Beocca informs Uhtred that Ælswith rescinds his pardon, but Uhtred refuses to leave before Edward’s crowning. Finan advises him to run, but Thyra argues that a battle is coming and Uhtred has to pick a side. Later, Beocca speaks at Alfred's funeral. ("Episode 3.9")

Beocca rushes to his house after learning that it has gone up in flames with Thyra trapped inside. He attempts to rush into the burning house, but Finan and Sihtric hold him back, as he calls out to Thyra. Hild joins Beocca by his side as the smoke settles around his burned down house. She assures Beocca that Thyra is with God now. Finan promises Beocca that once the fire settles, he will find Thyra and wrap her body for burial. However, with her being his wife, Beocca insists that this is his task to complete. ("Episode 3.10")

Beocca finds Æthelwold in an ale house with Æthelred. He enters with an axe and slams it onto the table, blaming Æthelwold for the bile he spews, encouraging those around him to act unchristian-like. ("Episode 3.10")

Beocca visits Uhtred in his cell and begs Uhtred to stay in Winchester. He encourages Uhtred to accept a trial and speak out. Uhtred notices a change in Beocca and asks what happened. Beocca reveals that Thyra died in a fire, which he suspects was set by men of Wessex. Beocca encourages Uhtred to become the light that Wessex needs in the wake of Alfred’s death. ("Episode 3.10")

With Edward's blessing and Alfred's pardon, Uhtred leads the men of Wessex into battle with the Danes. With help from Merica, they defeat the Danes. ("Episode 3.10")

Season 4[]

Winchester, Wessex; Hild and Beocca greet Uhtred, who informs them that he has good news; Ælfric and Bebbanburg have been weakened by the Scots and Uhtred is planning to claim what his rightfully his. Aelfric had a son but the heir Wihtgar was banished. He died last summer in the southern sea. Uhtred is hoping that Beocca and Hild will join him. However, their fighting days are over. Although, Beocca promises that he will join Uhtred when the hard work is done. Hild then asks about his children. Uhtred tells them that Stiorra thrives. She lives at Æthelflæd’s estate. However, he doesn’t get to see his son. Alfred’s influence has made him holy. Hild and Beocca inform Uhtred that Wessex is doing well. Edward’s son is walking and the king’s wife is to be crowned a queen. ("Episode 4.1")

Uhtred finds Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric in the stable and tells them of his plan to intercept the monks headed for Bebbanburg. Before leaving Winchester, Uhtred says goodbye to Beocca and Hild. Beocca tells Uhtred to fulfill his birthright and restore Northumbria to greatness. Uhtred promises Beocca that one day soon, he will live like a lord in Bebbanburg. Hild then gives Uhtred a silver cross, telling him to turn it into hack-silver and pay for bribes along the way. ("Episode 4.1")

Ælswith worries that Steapa is trying to worm his way in with the King’s guards. She shares her concern with Hild. In the past, he has suggested to Ælswith things that are most unchristian in regards to the other heirs of the throne. Beocca interrupts and asks if she’s referring to her own firstborn child, who she had banished so that her son could make a better marriage. Ælswith’s referring to the children who were conceived without holy union. However, Beocca and Hild inform her that the first marriage was, in fact, legitimate. Beocca reminds Ælswith that she chose Lord Æthelhelm’s daughter as a match because he had silver that Wessex needed. She chose her over a woman that Ælswith’s son loved and who had borne him children. Ælswith reminds Beocca that she had him removed from the court and that it’s unwise to remain somewhere he isn’t wanted. However, much like him, Ælswith is unwanted there as well, he claims. After she leaves, Hild tells Beocca that Ælswith is not herself. Her role has diminished and she’s veiled in grief. ("Episode 4.1")

Pyrlig instructs Beocca to keep his head down and stay inside for a while following his latest encounter with Ælswith. Pyrlig promises to bring him news when he can. Beocca warns Pyrlig that to advise a king is a great honor. But it can also be a curse. Sometimes he found himself at war with his own conscience. He gives Pyrlig his blessing to do whatever must be done to protect King Edward, who has all the makings of a great leader. Beocca fears that time may be against them. Those around Edward have ambition. And it is not the ambition of the King, or of his father, who they both loved. ("Episode 4.1")

Cookham, Wessex; Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric prepare the boat. At the last minute, Beocca arrives after changing his mind and deciding to join Uhtred on his journey. Uhtred questions if Hild sent Beocca to keep an eye on him. Beocca insists that it was his own decision. He admittedly allowed himself to get old too quickly. However, Uhtred questions the real reason Beocca decided to tag along. Beocca reveals that word reached him about the abduction of a young deacon. They then sail to Bebbanburg. ("Episode 4.1")

The Sea; Uhtred, Beocca, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric continue on their journey to Bebbanburg. ("Episode 4.2")

Grimsby, Northumbria; Beocca, Uhtred, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric arrive in Grimsby. Young Uhtred wants to stay on the boat, so Beocca stays behind with him while the others search for the monks. Beocca tells young Uhtred that he misjudges his father. He explains that sometimes, one must do wrong in order to do right. Beocca recalls how Aelfric tried to kill a child for no gain but wooden walls. And for that, he wrenched a boy from his Christian life, delivered him to the heathens and damned his soul to all eternity. Uhtred is avenging a great wrong done to him. Beocca urges young Uhtred to understand that. ("Episode 4.2")

Beocca, and young Uhtred reconvenes with the others. Uhtred instructs young Uhtred to follow the monks to Bebbanburg. However, he is no warrior and questions why his father has such faith in him. Uhtred explains that he has the spirit of their family within him. Uhtred, Beocca, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric suddenly find themselves being confronted by the villagers, who are less than welcoming. ("Episode 4.2")

Outside Bebbanburg, Northumbria; As they near Bebbanburg, Beocca remarks that it is as magnificent as it has ever been. He then tells Finan to drop the sail as they need not get any closer. ("Episode 4.2")

Beocca, Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric scout out Bebbanburg from afar. Ælfric supposedly only has 40 men, but that’s twice as many as them. Uhtred looks to Beocca to answer if he’s leading men to their deaths. Beocca admits that while the fight will be furious and men will fall, he’s certain Uhtred will win. ("Episode 4.2")

Uhtred and Finan spot the signal young Uhtred sends and move in, along with Beocca, Osferth, and Sihtric. ("Episode 4.2")

Bebbanburg, Northumbria; Uhtred and Finan take out the two guards by the gate and wait for young Uhtred to open the gate. When young Uhtred never shows, they’re forced to pry the gate up. Uhtred manages to slip under and raise the gate from inside. They proceed into the fort and kill every guard they cross. ("Episode 4.2")

Meanwhile, young Uhtred has been captured by Wihtgar. He suspects that young Uhtred was trying to steal away and demands to know why. Wihtgar tortures young Uhtred for answers. When he can’t get the answers out of him, Wihtgar kills both monks. When one of Ælfric's men attempts to kill him, young Uhtred tackles his attacker to the ground and nearly chokes the life out of him before Uhtred, Beocca, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric arrive. Uhtred holds a blade to Ælfric’s throat. Uhtred explains that no one else has to die save for his uncle. As Lord of Bebbanburg, he swears to provide for and protect them. Uhtred then looks to Aidan and asks where his allegiance lies. Aidan replies that he’s loyal to the true heir of Bebbanburg and points up to Wihtgar, who’s pointing a crossbow at Uhtred. He demands that Wihtgar put down the bow. Instead, he fires it, striking Ælfric in the eye, killing him instantly. The men of Bebbanburg then pledge their allegiance to Wihtgar. ("Episode 4.2")

Ælfric’s body lays on the ground after being killed by Wihtgar. Uhtred, young Uhtred, Beocca, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric are surrounded by the men of Bebbanburg. Wihtgar explains that his father was weak, so he put him out of his misery. Uhtred tells Wihtgar that Ælfric stole the land from him when he was a child, so if Wihtgar wants to be considered the true Lord of Bebbanburg, he has to a fight. But Wihtgar declines the challenge. Beocca reveals that he was Ælfric’s priest. Beocca knew his strengths and flaws. He proposes that they make peace and unite against the Scots. However, Wihtgar does not seek peace. He only wishes to kill Uhtred so that he doesn’t repeat his father’s mistakes. But first, he wants Uhtred to watch as he kills his son. Wihtgar fires an arrow at young Uhtred, but Beocca jumps in front of him, taking the arrow in the chest. Uhtred becomes enraged and kills Wihtgar’s men. Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric assist him. Uhtred checks on Beocca but he has succumbed to his wounds. Outnumbered by their adversaries, they retreat to their ship. ("Episode 4.3")

Northumbria; Uhtred, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric just barely make it on shore. Uhtred contemplates going back to retrieve Beocca’s body, but Finan insists that he doesn’t. Uhtred blames himself for Beocca’s death. He has lost any family he’s ever had, but Beocca was always a constant. Without him, Uhtred has no home.

Uhtred walks alone. He begins digging in the ground with his knife. He buries the silver cross that Hild gave him in Beocca’s honor. Finan approaches Uhtred and tells him that Beocca would not want to see him mourning so. Uhtred recalls how Beocca held him on the ramparts, when Earl Ragnar rode to Bebbanburg. When his father named him Uhtred and told him to die for Bebbanburg, Beocca was at his side. He even baptized him. He saved Uhtred’s life many times over. Finan hugs Uhtred as he cries over Beocca’s loss.

Memorable Quotes[]

"Revenge will not bring you peace, only death."
—Beocca to Uhtred[src]
"You cannot invite a serpent into the garden and be surprised when it slithers on the ground."
—Beocca to Ælswith about Æthelhelm and Ælflæd[src]

Killed Victims[]

This list shows the victims Beocca has killed:

  • Numerous unnamed Dane soldiers

This list shows the victims Beocca has killed:

  • (To Be Added)

Appearances[]

The Saxon Stories[]

Books 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
The Saxon Stories              

The Last Kingdom[]

Episodes 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Season 1
Season 2
Season 3
Season 4
Season 5
Seven Kings Must Die

Trivia[]

  • Beocca is described from Uhtred's POV in the book series as being extremely ugly, with a fierce squint, a palsied hand and a clubbed foot. Beocca was also described as having red hair, but is bald in the television series.
  • Uhtred mentions in the books that Beocca was born as a slave in the time of his grandfather, but allowed the boy to receive an education due to his intellect and allowed him to become a priest in his service.
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