Vikings: Every Character Based On Real Historical Figures

In the show Lagertha starts out as a simple farmer and Ragnar Lothbrok's wife. She is strong and smart, both as a leader and shield maiden, so she efficiently gains power and recognition throughout the show.

In reality, Lagertha was only mentioned in Saxo Grammaticus' 'Gesta Danorum' from the early 13th century. In this version of history, she meets Ragnar during a battle. She helps him win and he is so enamored by her strength that they eventually marry. They have three children, including a son, though it is not Bjorn Ironside as seen in the show. Ragnar eventually leaves her, but unlike the show it is for Princess Thora, not Aslaug.

Even though her story comes from a historical text, most historians don't really believe that she existed. They think that she is the representation of strong warrior women rather than an actual person.