- Osferth: "I would like you all to surrender. Or I will smite you."
- Danes: "What did he say? Smite? What is "smite"?"
- Osferth: "It's a word, isn't it? A word from the Holy Book. It means slay or kill. I will kill you. Smite."
- Danes: "You will smite all of us?"
- Osferth: "Yeah, most. Some of you might run away, hopefully. I've got... I've got a sword. A very sharp sword. But I'd prefer it if you surrendered." [src]
Osferth is a main character in both The Saxon Stories novel series, and The Last Kingdom television series, acting as the tetartagonist from Season 2 to the first half of Season 5.
He was the result of a union between Alfred and a serving girl named Eadgyth. He was an embarrassment to the deeply religious Alfred. He was enrolled as a novice monk.
Biography[]
The Saxon Stories[]
In "Sword Song", Uhtred saw Osferth and recognised him. After Osferth said he did not want to be in the Church, Uhtred took him into his service. When Father Beocca objected, Uhtred pointed out that Osferth would probably die the first time he fought in a shield wall, thereby relieving Alfred of his embarrassment, Beocca saw Uhtred's point. During the battle for London, Osferth jumped from a wall into the midst of the enemy and seriously wounded Sigefrid, a Danish warlord, crippling him. At Alfred's demand, Uhtred sent Osferth back to Wintancester with Pyrlig but Alfred soon allowed Osferth to return. Osferth killed Sigefrid in a second battle and Uhtred gave him Sigefrid's sword.
In "The Burning Land", Osferth developed into a competent warrior and led a portion of Uhtred's troops.
In the first novel, "The Last Kingdom", Osferth is mentioned the first time when Uhtred spies for the Danes and eavesdrops on a conversation between Alfred and Beocca in the Westsaxon camp near Snotengaham. It's possibly late summer in the year 868.
The Last Kingdom[]
Osferth is Leofric's nephew and Alfred's bastard son. He wishes to serve Uhtred as a warrior. Uhtred tells Osferth to find him later and to bring a sword and lose the cross. ("Episode 2.6") Osferth joins Uhtred and Gisela for dinner. He tells Uhtred how everyone in Winchester is praying that Æthelflæd is alive. Osferth wishes to serve Uhtred as his Uncle Leofric often told him that Uhtred is a good man. Gisela tells Osferth that while Uhtred may be a good man, he’s only allowing him to join his crew to embarrass Alfred. Gisela wants to go to Winchester, but Uhtred has no news to share yet. He also joins Uhtred in Beamfleot to negotiate with the brothers. ("Episode 2.7") Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth find Odda drunk at the pub. As they put him in bed, he drunkenly shares with them his plan to raise the Devonshire fyrd against the king’s wishes. Uhtred orders Osferth to stay behind and watch after Odda. Odda awakens the following morning, in bed with Osferth and Clapa. ("Episode 2.8") Osferth admits to Uhtred that he is afraid. He wears a sword but barely knows how to use it. He prays that when battle comes, he won’t fail Uhtred. Uhtred explains that courage is finding the will to overcome one’s fear. He even offers to find him an axe, which requires less skill. They arrive in Beamfleot. They spy at least 20 guards. They attack as soon as it’s dark. Osferth watches in fear as his comrades go to war. He notices a weakened Dane in front of him and kills him. Uhtred scolds him for claiming a kill that was not his to make. He hands Osferth an axe and tells him to find his courage. ("Episode 2.8") They meet with Erik and devise a plan to save the princess. They set fire to the fortress to cause a distraction. They rush into the hall and kill the guards and free Æthelflæd. Sigefrid breaks the barricade and enters the hall. He kills Erik as the others escape. Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth ride off with Lady Æthelflæd. They meet with Alfred, Odda, and the fyrd. And with the army, they defeat the Danes. ("Episode 2.8") |
Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth arrive in Alton to find the village destroyed. They spot small group of Danes in front of the church. Osferth approaches them head on, allowing the others to get into position and attack. They’ve come in search of Skade, who stands in the church with a human heart in hand. She puts a curse on Uhtred. She holds his heart in hand and will squeeze it and break it. As Sihtric binds her hands, she claims that Uhtred now belongs to her and his spirit is hers to torment. ("Episode 3.1") Uhtred, Sihtric, Osferth, and Skade arrive at Fearnham. Moments later, Finan arrives with Æthelflæd, Aldhelm, and the Mercian guard. They form a shield wall as Bloodhair and the Danes near. They charge towards the Saxons and the battle begins. The men of Wessex arrive and form a shield wall on the other side of the battlefield and attack. Enclosing the Danes within. Bloodhair gets on a horse and flees. Skade witness as her love abandons her. ("Episode 3.1") Uhtred is growing weaker by the moment. He vomits while riding his horse and his skin is pale. He falls off his horse and Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth come to his aid. He explains that Skade is squeezing the life from him. He orders Finan to put him in a cart and haul him to Brida in Dunholm. She will know what to do, however, Brida finds them. ("Episode 3.2") Even as Uhtred recovers, he continues to have hallucinations of Leofric, who tells him that he can’t escape who he is. Osferth offer his condolences to Uhtred for the loss of Gisela, who was often kind to him. ("Episode 3.3") Ragnar, Hæsten, Bloodhair, and Cnut join their four armies to make one great army, all led by Ragnar in effort to defeat Alfred and claim Wessex. While those around them cheer, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth are reluctant to go to war with the men of Wessex. ("Episode 3.3") Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth reconvene with Uhtred. They all know the great army will never hold. Furthermore, they didn’t come north only to turn and march south. Not to mention that men like Hæsten and Bloodhair are no better than Kjartan. They have no desire to fight along side such men. Finan questions why they aren’t looking towards Bebbanburg. He begs Uhtred against marching to Wessex. However, Uhtred cannot dare abandon his brother. ("Episode 3.3") Uhtred asks what Æthelwold said to Æthelred when he visited Merica. Æthelwold spoke of an opportunity to enrage Alfred and cause division, which included killing Æthelflæd. Uhtred tells Æthelwold to not sleep or else he might not awaken. Æthelwold questions why Uhtred cares. He surmises that the real reason Beocca came was to ask that Uhtred save her. Æthelwold predicts that Uhtred is about to desert them. Ragnar tells Uhtred to choose to either stand with them or abandon them. Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth enter as he reveals that he will be leaving to save Æthelflæd. Ragnar reminds Uhtred that he gave his word and he is going back on it by leaving them. And for this, Ragnar takes back his name from Uhtred. He is no longer Uhtred Ragnarson. ("Episode 3.3") Uhtred and Bloodhair fight to the death to see who will claim Skade. Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth watch on. Brida routes for Bloodhair to kill Uhtred while Ragnar watches in silence, even as Bloodhair’s men cheat by depriving Uhtred a weapon. Finan recovers Uhtred’s sword and gives it back to Uhtred, who 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. ("Episode 3.4") Osferth, Uhtred, Skade, Sihtric, and Finan informs Æthelflæd that her men are not guards and that she should find more skilled warriors. They will need real protection when the Danes eventually do invade. ("Episode 3.4") Hæsten and Dagfinn arrive at the nunnery, where they kill a guard and demand that Æthelflæd be brought to them. Abbess witnesses the assault and runs inside to inform the others of the Danes’ arrival. Uhtred wishes to send Abbess back out to talk to them as they are not aware of their presence. Sable volunteers to go out there, but Abbess takes the responsibility. Unfortunately, they kill Abbess and enter the church, where they are ambushed by Uhtred, Skade, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth. Hæsten and Dagfinn escape as their men are slaughtered. What’s left of them surrounds the nunnery. Æthelflæd is prepared to give herself up so that no one else has to die for her. However, they form a shield wall and then give Skade over to Hæsten in exchange for him leaving peacefully. ("Episode 3.4") Uhtred, Æthelflæd, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth arrive in Aegelesburg to see Edward. They are greeted at the gate by Æthelred, Aldhelm, and Steapa. They claim that they only want to warn Alfred about Hæsten. Æthelred allows them in but without their weapons. The Witan then requests their presence, where Uhtred pleads with Alfred to lend him an army so that he may take Beamfleot, but Alfred refuses him. Fortunately, Edward seeks out Uhtred and offers him 500 men or more to go against the Danes. ("Episode 3.5") Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth lead a group of men to Beamfleot. Hæsten, Skade, and Dagfinn watch from the fortress as they approach. Uhtred goads Hæsten into the battle, reminding him of all the times he fled. He challenges Hæsten to a fight. Hæsten angrily agrees to a one on one fight, denouncing any cowardly ways. Half a day has passed and Hæsten finally comes down to battle Uhtred, but he comes with Skade and an army. Uhtred orders Finan, Sihtric, and Osferth to form two lines and build a shield wall. However, the Danes proceed to surround them and attack. They are vastly outnumbered and picked off. ("Episode 3.5") They continue to battle against the Danes, even as they are picked off one by one. However, Edward arrives and lead them to victory. Afterward, they tend to Osferth, who was injured during battle. Uhtred forbids him from dying and wants Osferth to return to Æthelflæd’s estate. ("Episode 3.6") Finan and Osferth welcome Uhtred back and reveal that Sihtric has left with the prisoners. Uhtred now knows how to break the curse, but it’s a near impossible task to reach Skade. Finan informs Uhtred that Sihtric’s departure has disturbed the men. They feel as though Uhtred is the blame. Some may not want to go looking for her again. ("Episode 3.7") Crowland, Mercia; Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth arrive at a village in the heart of Daneland. They are approached by Guthlac, thegn of the village. They’ve come for food, shelter, and ale. He allows them to stay but they must leave their weapons with their horses, however, the men refuse. Uhtred suspects that Guthlac will soon report their arrival to the Danes. Guthlac surrounds the ale house with Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth inside. Uhtred explains that Guthlac belongs to the Danes and when they get word that he’s trapped, the Danes will come for them, meaning less men at their camp. Uhtred heads upstairs and smashes a hole in the roof. He then takes several torches and sets the village on fire. While the men are distracted and scrambling to save the village, Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth exit. Guthlac asks for mercy, but Uhtred kills him and leaves. ("Episode 3.7") Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth remain hidden in the nearby woods as the Danes arrive at the village. Sihtric finds them hidden among the trees and gives Uhtred a hug. As it turns out, they staged the entire fight in order for Sihtric to infiltrate the Danes. Sihtric informs them that Bloodhair is dead and only Hæsten remains at the camp. Bloodhair was killed by Skade, who knows of Uhtred’s promise to shadow walk, but there are too many guards. She is ,however, allowed to collect grass and herbs by a single tree on the other side of the camp. Uhtred orders Sihtric to tell Skade he is near and to take her by the tree. Sihtric breaks Skade free of her chains and takes her to meet Uhtred at the tree with Finan and Osfeth. The five of them retreat as Hæsten gets word of their arrival. Sihtric leads them to the dock, where they kill the guards before jumping into the ship and sailing away. ("Episode 3.7") Osferth returns to Coccham. He watches from nearby as Uhtred drowns Skade in the river. Uhtred then returns to the hall, where Osferth has started a fire and prepared food. He reveals that she saw Uhtred kill Skade. While he’s not proud of his actions, it was necessary. Even though Osferth feared that Uhtred could not rid himself of the curse, Osferth stayed by his side in honor of Gisela. ("Episode 3.8") Osferth and Uhtred then sneak into Winchester and part ways. Osferth finds Finan to inform him that Uhtred killed Skade and broke his curse. Finan claims that Skade was the devil in disguise. The two of them then go searching for ale. 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") After discovering that Thyra is being harassed by Tidman, Osferth, Uhtred, Finan, and Sihtric follow Beocca, as he confronts him. It requires all of them to pull Beocca off of Tidman once he attacks. ("Episode 3.9") Osferth and Finan arrive outside of Beocca’s house to see the flames soaring. Finan sends Osferth to find Beocca, and it doesn't take them long to return. Beocca attempts to rush into the burning house, but Finan and Sihtric hold him back, as he calls out to Thyra. ("Episode 3.10") As he is being escorted out of Winchester, Uhtred reveals that he was pardoned by Alfred. However, Ælswith denies his claim. Osferth, Sihtric, and Finan ask if they should follow behind and leave Winchester for the Danes. Edward steps up and declares that Alfred’s pardon stands and that Uhtred is a free man. Uhtred hopes that one day his path will lead north to Bebbanburg, but until then, he believes he’s needed in Winchester, so he will follow Edward. ("Episode 3.10") They march to Bedanford, where they set up camp in High Wycombe. Finan and Sihtric cross paths with Jackdaw just after taking out several Dane spies. He comes with a message from Brida for Uhtred, who reveals that Æthelwold killed Ragnar. After learning the Danes are near, they attack them in the woods, ultimately defeating the Danes. ("Episode 3.10") |
Outside Bebbanburg, Northumbria; Just outside the walls, the scavengers steal from Ælfric’s fallen soldiers. Among them are Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric. Finan tells Osferth that it’s time they head south. ("Episode 4.1") Cookham, Wessex; Uhtred greets Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric as they return from the north. Finan informs Uhtred that his uncle is under attack by the Scots pushing south. He lost half his men in the most recent assault. Leaving him with barely 40 soldiers. Unable to even raise a fyrd. Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric urge Uhtred to attack now while Bebbanburg is weak. Finan explains that the trip will cost a ship and men, as well as all their silver. Uhtred is willing to take the risk. However, they’ll need to ride to Winchester to raise an army. ("Episode 4.1") Winchester, Wessex; htred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric arrive in Winchester. Later, Uhtred reports back to Sihtric and Finan with the unfortunate news that King Edward is refusing to help them. Osferth joins them and they proceed to discuss the possibility of taking down Bebbanburg on their own. Uhtred assures them that they don’t need an army. All they have to do is kill Ælfric and the gates will open. ("Episode 4.1") Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric plot their path into Bebbanburg. Hild finds Uhtred and thanks him for offering his men to clear the stables. Later, Uhtred returns and tells them of his plan to intercept the monks headed for Bebbanburg. ("Episode 4.1") St. Wilfrid’s Church, Wessex; Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric kidnap young Uhtred and take him into the woods. Young Uhtred wants no part of whatever his father has planned, claiming the church is his family. Whether young Uhtred likes it or not, Uhtred insists that they’ll be leaving together, headed to Coccham, where they will collect the ship that will take them north to reclaim both of their birthrights. However, young Uhtred doesn’t even know of Bebbanburg. ("Episode 4.1") Winchester, 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. Then they 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; Uhtred, Beocca, 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. ("Episode 4.2") Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric enter a tavern. They claim that they’re simply traders taking pelts to Frankia. They're in search of women companionship. They are taken down into the dungeon, where the women are. There, they find the monks, Brother Oswi and Brother Iestyn receiving sexual favours. Afterward, Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth follow them out. It takes six days to get to Bebbanburg on the coast road. They’ll get there just before ascension. Uhtred reconvenes with Beocca and his son. He 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. It’ll give him a strength that he does not know yet. He instructs young Uhtred to take a horse and ride the road north, close to the shore, where he’ll find the monks and join them. Uhtred, Beocca, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric suddenly find themselves being confronted by the villagers, who are less than welcoming. ("Episode 4.2") Bebbanburg's waters, Northumbria; They 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 sent by young Uhtred 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. Wihtgar tries to sink it by catapulting boulders, but he fail. Aidan questions if they should follow them, but Wihtgar assures him they won’t last the night. ("Episode 4.3") Northumbria; Uhtred, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric just barely make it on shore. They’re tired and weak. Finan tells Uhtred that the men are tired and hungry and that there’s nothing there for them here. It’s time they move on. 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. ("Episode 4.3") Sihtric makes a sling for Osferth’s wounded arm. Finan returns and tells them that Uhtred walks alone. They fear that he may be broken, but Finan assures them that he’s merely grieving. He then tells Sihtric, young Uhtred, Osferth, and the others that they must return south. They’ll need horses and provisions for the journey. So, the men begin removing their gold and other valuables for Sihtric to take to a nearby village. ("Episode 4.3") Mercia (?); They cross paths with Hæsten as he’s with younger Cnut and Esgar. He questions why Uhtred is so far from home, joking that he rides once more to save Lady Æthelflæd. He then tells Uhtred that he’s free to pass, however, he also welcomes Uhtred and his men to join them. ("Episode 4.3") After setting up camp, Osferth reveals to Uhtred, young Uhtred, Finan, and Sihtric that Cnut and Brida have attacked Mercia. While he owes the kings nothing, Uhtred does fear for Æthelflæd. Hæsten then invites them all over to join him. He heard of the rumors that Uhtred returned to Bebbanburg to reclaim his land. Hæsten upset Uhtred, who attacks him. Uhtred spares Hæsten, only to return to kill after he makes another remark. In exchange for his life, Hæsten offers Uhtred the name of the man that killed Ragnar. Æthelwold may have held the dagger but another whispered poison into his ear. Hæsten reveals that it was Cnut. He wanted to lead the Danes and he wanted Ragnar’s woman. Uhtred lets Hæsten go, but keeps Cnut’s sons, younger Cnut and Esgar, with him. Uhtred orders Finan and Sihtric to tie the boys up. One makes a run for it while the other tries to stab Finan, but they are both captured. ("Episode 4.3") Aegelesburg, Mercia; Uhtred, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric arrive in Aegelesburg. Uhtred hands young Cnut and Esgar over. With Cnut’s heirs in his possession, Cnut will surely come for them. So, Uhtred asks where is Æthelflæd’s army. She replies that Æthelred is in East Anglia with his men. Although, Æthelflæd has ordered the Mercian fyrd to Tettenhall, and she believes that Edward will meet them there. Æthelflæd doesn’t know if Æthelred is coming, so she had to force her brother’s hand. Uhtred tells Finan that they leave at first light, and Æthelflæd instructs Aldhelm to prepare the survivors. Æthelflæd then asks Uhtred what happened at Bebbanburg, and he starts to cry. Unbeknownst to them, Bjorgulf arrives with a fleet of soldiers just up the hill. ("Episode 4.3") Uhtred urges Æthelflæd to leave before the Danes arrive, but it’s too late. Finan and Osferth alert the others that the Danes are charging towards the gate. Uhtred guides Æthelflæd to safety while Aldhelm and Sihtric stay behind with the others to hold off the Danes. Bjorgulf leads his army into Aegelesburg, killing those who survived the initial attack. He demands that they hand over Æthelflæd. Inside the monastery, young Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, Osferth, and Aldhelm try to keep the doors shut as the Danes apply force. Uhtred goes to the roof. Finan and Sihtric follow him with knives held to young Cnut and Esgar’s throats. He tells Bjorgulf to leave or else the children will die. Bjorgulf refuses to leave, and so Uhtred tricks him into thinking that he cut off the head of young Cnut by throwing the body of one of the dead Mercian kids off the roof. In fear that Uhtred will kill Esgar, Bjorgulf retreats. After Bjorgulf leaves, they head off for Tettanhall. ("Episode 4.4") Tettenhall, Mercia; Uhtred, Æthelflæd, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and Aldhelm arrive at Tettenhall. They are joined by Father Pyrlig and King Hywel’s army. Pyrlig explains that it was Ælswith who sent him to find allies, as he’s heard nothing from the king. Uhtred still fears that the men they have may not be enough. However, Æthelflæd refuses to back down. They devise a plan to fend off the Danes. However, they aren’t certain it will work. Æthelflæd, Aldhelm, and Pyrlig join them as the Danes get close. ("Episode 4.4") Cnut, Brida, Jackdaw, and the Dane army arrive in Tettenhall. Brida notes that something isn’t right and orders them to fallback, but Cnut leads his men forward, right into Uhtred’s trap; a large, camouflaged ditch. As the Danes try to recover, Uhtred, Æthelflæd, young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, Pyrlig, and Aldhelm charge, with the Welsh as backup. ("Episode 4.4") Saltwic, Mercia; At Æthelflæd’s estate, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric watch over Ælfwynn, Æthelstan, and Stiorra. Stiorra questions if Bebbanburg was as impressive as they were told it was as children. Young Uhtred replies that it was more so and harder to attack. He doubts he’ll ever see it again in their lifetime. Stiorra orders for Ælfwynn to come inside as she spots soldiers ride up towards the gate. She reports to Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric of their arrival and tells them that she has a plan. ("Episode 4.5") Stiorra opens the front gate and asks Cenric and his men if they are lost. They’ve come to take Ælfwynn to Aegelesburg. Ælfwynn claims that she’s already been taken to Winchester by Uhtred. Centric isn’t convinced and proceeds to search the grounds while young Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, Ælfwynn, and Æthelstan hide. However, they come up empty handed. Uhtred arrives soon thereafter to find that everyone is safe. After evading capture, they proceed to pack their belongings and head for Ceaster. ("Episode 4.5") Mercia; Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric come to a stop, if only for a second as Edward and his men won’t be far behind. Eadith arrives with a message from Æthelflæd. She wants them to meet her at the ruins of St. Milburg’s Priory. They do not entirely trust Eadith, but they have no choice. Uhtred wonders what’s next for her. Eadith has family in Frankia, but that way is Inland, so Uhtred invites Eadith to travel with them. ("Episode 4.6") As they ride through the woods, hungry villagers rip the bread that Stiorra is eating right from her hands. They come to a stop as the road is blocked with the bodies of dead men piked on large wooden sticks. Finan and Sihtric go to investigate. They realize that at least one man is still alive but that he’s dying of a sickness. Finan claims that it is spread by touch while Uhtred and Osferth state that it spreads by air. Young Uhtred believes that it only takes sinners. Finan suggests that they return to Aegelesburg. However, they don’t have the power to defend themselves against Edward. Uhtred changes the plan. They will now go across land to Wenloca to avoid the bad air. Sihtric worries that the children won’t make the trip on foot, but they proceed nevertheless. ("Episode 4.6") St. Milburg’s Priory, Mercia; They arrive at St. Milburg’s Priory but Æthelflæd and Aldhelm are nowhere to be found. Finan continues to grow more and more worried. He suspects there may even be bodies laying in the fields. Uhtred orders Stiorra to get Ælfwynn out the sun, but she’s tired of mothering her. Stiorra has done it for months and has no intentions on being a wife. Nevertheless, she takes Ælfwynn under the trees. Finan suspects that Æthelflæd isn’t coming and advises they leave. Uhtred realizes that Æthelflæd must’ve gone ahead to Ceaster as agreed, so they do the same. ("Episode 4.6") Mercia; Finan suspects that Ælfwynn may be getting sick as her face is red, but Osferth claims she’s merely tired. They’ve been on the road for two days with no sight of Edward’s men, so Osferth proposes to Uhtred that they rest. Fortunately, they find a place to stop for the night. ("Episode 4.6") They sleep as Uhtred watches over them. Day breaks and the group awakens. Ælfwynn goes following behind a crow, chasing it through the woods on her own. That’s when she crosses paths with a sleeping Eardwulf and his men. Fortunately, Uhtred gets to her in time before she can awaken them. The group then run off into the woods. ("Episode 4.6") The group rest at a river stream. Eadith looks after Ælfwynn. She’s getting a fever, so Osferth gives her something to drink. Eadith then asks Osferth about Finan and how they’re true warriors. ("Episode 4.6") The following morning, they continue their journey to Ceaster, Eadith fears that Ælfwynn is getting sick. Uhtred is aware, but tells Eadith to simply reassure her. Unfortunately, they are tracked down by Eardwulf and his guards. They find themselves in a swamp filled with dead bodies, certainly the result of the sickness. So, they are forced to fight their way out. Eardwulf demands they hand over Ælfwynn, but Uhtred refuses. Finan tells Æthelstan to run into the trees when the fighting starts and Sihtric hands him a knife. As the guards inch towards them, Eadith reveals that her brother killed Lord Æthelred and she’s willing to swear it on the book. She adds that Eardwulf is also responsible for the delay of their return to Mercia. Eadith has proof off his crime. She tells the guards to look inside the pouch that her brother wears around his neck. In it is Æthelred’s ring. And so, Eardwulf’s guards turn on him. Eadith advises Eardwulf to save himself and flee to Frankia. He heeds Eadith’s warning and leaves. Uhtred then picks up Æthelred’s ring off the ground. ("Episode 4.6") Wollerton, Mercia; Sihtric asks for his blade back from Æthelstan. Uhtred orders young Uhtred and Sihtric to find Æthelflæd and tell her that Ælfwynn is safe. Eadith and Osferth will guard her until Edward has sworn he won’t harm her. Eadith fears that Ælfwynn is getting worse. Uhtred asks that Eadith keep her alive until he returns. Eadith tells him that she and Osferth will do everything they can. ("Episode 4.6") Wyre Forest. Mercia; Osferth and Eadith take Ælfwynn to a healer in the Wyre Forest. The woman offers them wormwood, which is known to kill men. Eadith feels they have no choice. Should Ælfwynn die, they’ll be to blame as it’s believed that only sinners catch the sickness. Eadith drinks the wormwood herself before giving it to Ælfwynn. Later, Eadith and Osferth check in on Ælfwynn but she won’t wake up and her breathing is weak. Eadith proposes they take her to a healer in Aegelesburg. ("Episode 4.7") Aegelesburg, Mercia; They arrive outside the gates of Aegelesburg and are welcomed inside with an unconscious Ælfwynn in arms. Edward orders Cenric to find him every healer in town and not to speak a word of this to anyone. Afterward, Osferth, Finan, Stiorra and Pyrlig celebrate after learning that Ælfwynn is recovering from her sickness and that Uhtred has accepted being Lord of Mercia. ("Episode 4.7") Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and Stiorra enter the tavern. They claim to be the new Lord of Mercia’s closest advisors and demand to be served ale. All except for Stiorra, who is under age. Upset that she's being secluded, she takes Finan’s ale and chugs it. Aterward, they exit the tavern to what appears to be the guards of Wessex seizing Aegelesburg, led by Cenric. Finan orders Stiorra to hide. ("Episode 4.8") Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric enter the monastery to inform Uhtred and Aldhelm that King Edward’s guards have taken control of Aegelesburg. Æthelflæd reminds them all that Mercia and Wessex are allied. She would like to speak to her brother, but Pyrlig explains that Edward is at prayer and doesn’t want to be disturbed. ("Episode 4.8") Uhtred questions the whereabouts of the Mercian Guard. Ludeca explains that they are leaderless without Eardwulf and the fyrd is disheartened and scattered. Æthelflæd tells Uhtred and Aldhelm to restrain themselves until after she’s had a conversation with Edward. Uhtred and Aldhelm agree that Æthelflæd is not safe and should flee Aegelesburg, but she refuses. Uhtred orders Finan to stay with Æthelflæd and guard her quarters. He then tells Sihtric and Osferth to follow him. They mean to ensure that Æthelflæd won’t have to rely on Edward’s goodwill for her survival. ("Episode 4.8") Stiorra tells Finan and Æthelflæd to come to the front gate as Uhtred, Osferth, and Sihtric return with a fyrd. Æthelflæd now has enough men to fight Edward. She tells them to remain calm as she will not sacrifice a single Mercian life unless it’s necessary. The fyrd will remain outside, but she has no doubt that Aegelesburg will soon be in Mercian control once again. She then orders Edward and Cenric to open the gates for Uhtred as there’s no need for conflict. ("Episode 4.8") Uhtred, Finan, Stiorra, Osferth, and Sihtric gather at the tavern, unsure of their next move. Eadith pays for their next jug of ale in exchange for them allowing her to travel with them when they leave Aegelesburg. ("Episode 4.8") Thatcham, Wessex; Uhtred, Stiorra, Eadith, Finan, Sihtric, Osferth, Æthelstan, and Pyrlig hold up in Thatcham, where they set up camp for Ælswith, who will offer prayers of thanks on their behalf when she arrives in Bedwyn. The group, with the exception of Eadith, who hides behind the trees, suddenly finds themselves surrounded by Hæsten and his men. Hæsten informs Uhtred that Sigtryggr has landed from Irland and he wants all Danes to follow him. Sigtryggr and Brida have captured Winchester, where Hæsten plans to take Ælswith, Æthelstan, and Stiorra. Hæsten orders his men to tie Uhtred and his men to trees so that they may die slowly. ("Episode 4.9") They are tied upside down from a tree and hung by their feet. Hæsten orders two of his men to stay behind to ensure they die. Unbeknownst to them, Eadith watches from within the trees. Sihtric appears to be suffering the worst. Suddenly, they hear the screams of a woman off in the distance. One of the two remaining Danes goes to investigate and is is killed by Eadith. The second Dane comes looking after him. While he’s gone, Eadith frees Sihtric and Pyrlig. As she frees the others, the two of them kill the remaining Dane. Father Pyrlig will return to Aegelesburg to inform Edward while the others head to Winchester. ("Episode 4.9") Outside Winchester, Wessex; Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and Eadith arrive outside of Winchester. They see for themselves that the Danes have conquered the land and have strengthened their defenses. They plot to find a way inside. Eadith volunteers to sneak in with the villagers. She will find out where they captives are being kept. ("Episode 4.9") Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric lay low outside of Winchester as they wait for Edward and his army to arrive. However, Uhtred’s men grow tired of waiting. They’re looking for the man who used to run head first into battle to lead them. Uhtred reminds them how he lost Beoccain Bebbanburg because of his haste, so now he’s trying a more cautionary approach. ("Episode 4.9") Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and Aldhelm accompany Uhtred on his path to the kingdom. Aldhelm presumes that Uhtred is just trying to buy them some time until Æthelflæd arrives, and she’ll persuade Edward to endure a longer siege. However, that’s not Uhtred’s plan. He’s doing this because he believes he can end it. ("Episode 4.10") Uhtred’s sword is recovered and brought back to the camp. Yet Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and young Uhtred are certain that he’s still alive within the walls and plead with King Edward to give him more time. ("Episode 4.10") Winchester, Wessex; The Wessex and Mercian Guard smoke out the Kingdom and the Danes within. Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, and young Uhtred assist in the assault. They proceed to breach the front gate to Winchester. Where Brida and the Danes await. Uhtred and Sigtryggr reach the courtyard, where the battle has erupted. Uhtred tells Edward to stand down. He does so after some convincing, as does Sigtryggr. ("Episode 4.10") |
Killed Victims[]
This list shows the victims Osferth has killed:
The Last Kingdom[]
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The Saxon Stories[] |
Battle Participation[]
This list shows the battles Osferth has participated in:
The Last Kingdom[] |
The Saxon Stories[]
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Memorable Quotes[]
Family[]
This list shows Osferth's family:
- The † means that the individual is dead.
- The ° means the individual appears more then once in this list.
| Individual | Relationship | Notice | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parents | Alfred of Wessex | Father | † | |
| Eadgyth | Mother | † | ||
| Siblings | Æthelflæd of Wessex and Mercia | Half Sister | † | |
| Edward of Wessex | Half Brother | † | ||
| Grandparents | Æthelwulf of Wessex | Paternal Grandfather | † | |
| Affinity | Æthelred of Mercia | Brother-in-law | † | |
| Ecgwynn of Kent and Wessex | Sister-in-law | |||
| Ælflæd of Wiltshire and Wessex | Sister-in-law | |||
| Eadgifu of Kent and Wessex | Sister-in-law | |||
| Others | Æthelred of Wessex | Paternal Uncle | † | |
| Leofric | Maternal Uncle | † | ||
| Æthelstan of Wessex | Nephew | |||
| Ædgyth of Wessex and Northumbira | Niece | |||
| Ælfweard of Wessex | Nephew | † | ||
| Ælfwynn of Mercia | Niece | |||
| Æthelwold of Wessex | Paternal First Cousin | † | ||
| Individual | Relationship | Notice | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parents | Alfred of Wessex | Father | † | |
| Eadgyth | Mother | † | ||
| Siblings | Æthelflæd of Wessex and Mercia | Half Sister | † | |
| Edward of Wessex | Half Brother | |||
| Grandparents | Æthelwulf of Wessex | Paternal Grandfather | † | |
| Affinity | Æthelred of Mercia | Brother-in-law | † | |
| Ecgwynn of Kent and Wessex | Former Sister-in-law | |||
| Ælflæd of Wiltshire and Wessex | Sister-in-law | † | ||
| Others | Æthelred of Wessex | Paternal Uncle | † | |
| Leofric | Maternal Uncle | † | ||
| Æthelstan of Wessex | Nephew | |||
| Ædgyth of Wessex | Niece | |||
| Ælfweard of Wessex | Nephew | |||
| Ælfwynn of Mercia | Niece | |||
| Æthelwold of Wessex | Paternal First Cousin | † | ||
| Individual | Relationship | Notice | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parents | Alfred the Great of Wessex | Father | |
| Siblings | Æthelflæd of Wessex and Mercia | Sister | |
| Edward the Elder of Wessex | Brother | ||
| Æthelgifu of Wessex and Shaftesbury | Sister | ||
| Æthelweard of Wessex | Brother | ||
| Ælfthryth of Wessex and Flanders | Sister | ||
| Grandparents | Æthelwulf of Wessex | Paternal Grandfather | |
| Osburh of Wessex | Paternal Grandmother | ||
| Affinity | Æthelred of Mercia | Brother-in-law | |
| Ecgwynn of Wessex | Sister-in-law | ||
| Ælflæd of Wiltshire and Wessex | Sister-in-law | ||
| Eadgfu od Kent and Wessex | Sister-in-law | ||
| Baldwin of Flanders | Brother-in-law | Ælfthryth | |
| Others | Æthelred of Wessex | Paternal Uncle | |
| Æthelstan of Wessex and Kent | Paternal Uncle | ||
| Æthelswith of Wessex and Mercia | Paternal Aunt | ||
| Æthelbald of Wessex | Paternal Uncle | ||
| Æthelberht of Wessex | Paternal Uncle | ||
| Æthelwold of Wessex | Paternal First Cousin | ||
| Æthelhelm of Wessex | Paternal First Cousin | Æthelred | |
| Ælfwynn of Mercia | Niece | ||
| Æthelwine of Wessex | Nephew | Æthelweard | |
| Ælfwine of Wessex | Nephew | Æthelweard | |
| Arnulf of Flanders | Nephew | Ælfthryth | |
| Adalulf of Flanders and Boulogne | Nephew | Ælfthryth | |
| Ealswid of Flanders | Niece | Ælfthryth | |
| Ermentrud of Flanders | Niece | Ælfthryth | |
| Æthelstan of Wessex | Nephew | ||
| Ædgyth of Wessex and York | Niece | ||
| Ælfweard of Wessex | Nephew | ||
| Edwin of Wessex | Nephew | Edward | |
| Æthelhild of Wessex and Wilton Abbey | Niece | Edward | |
| Eadgifu of Wessex and the West Franks | Niece | Edward | |
| Eadflæd of Wessex and Wilton Abbey | Niece | Edward | |
| Eadhild of Wessex and the Franks | Niece | Edward | |
| Eadgyth of Wessex and the East Franks | Niece | Edward | |
| Ælfgifu of Wessex | Niece | Edward | |
| Edmund of Wessex | Nephew | Edward | |
| Eadred of Wessex | Nephew | Edward | |
| Eadburh of Wessex and Winchester | Niece | Edward | |
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 |
Gallery[]
Trivia[]
- This character has been based on a real historical figure of Osferth.
- His parentage is disputed; many historians believe he is Alfred's illegitimate son. There are several facts which point to this notion. However there are other claims, such as:
- He may have been a relative of Osburh's (Alfred's mother) family.
- He may have been Oswald filius regis (king's son), which could suggest to him being Æthelred's son.
- His parentage is disputed; many historians believe he is Alfred's illegitimate son. There are several facts which point to this notion. However there are other claims, such as:
- In history, Osferth died 934, his date of birth in unknown. Edward was born in c.874 and died in 924 and Æthelflæd was born in c.870 and died in 918. In the series it is said that Osferth was born before his sister, which would mean that he was roughly born around c.865.
- The name Osferth comes from Old English. The name is made up of the words os, which means "god", and friþ, which means "protection, peace".
- Osferth is a noble; he is the bastard son of King Alfred of Wessex, although Osferth doesn't have any titles, he still has royal blood.