'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 3: Tragic Season 2 death impacts Leif as he struggles to continue his journey
Contains spoilers for 'Vikings: Valhalla'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 2, the introduction of new characters significantly influenced the journeys of key figures like Harald Sigurdsson (Leo Suter) and Leif Eriksson (Sam Corlett). Among these newcomers was Mariam (Hayat Kamille), an astronomer whose relationship with Leif became a focal point of the season.
Leif and Harald's expedition to Constantinople brought them into contact with Mariam, whom Leif met in Novgorod. Her unique perspective and knowledge captivated Leif, offering him solace and intellectual stimulation amid the ongoing turmoil of their quest.
Mariam, however, is a fictional character created for the series, unlike many others based on historical figures and events. Her role in 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 2 extended beyond being a mere love interest; she played a crucial part in Leif's emotional and intellectual development.
As Leif grappled with his crisis of faith and the traumatic loss of loved ones, Mariam provided a new anchor through her teachings in science and astronomy. With Mariam's untimely death, Leif faces the challenge of continuing his journey without her guidance and support. This loss deepens his crisis of faith and compels him to rely on the knowledge and tools Mariam left behind.
As 'Vikings: Valhalla' progresses into Season 3, Leif's struggle with grief and faith promises to add layers of complexity to his character, influencing his decisions and path forward.
Will Leif’s face crisis after Mariam's death in 'Vikings: Valhalla'?
After Mariam's tragic death in Season 2, profound shadow casts over Leif Erikson's journey in 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 3. Beyond being his love interest, Mariam played a pivotal role in Leif's personal and intellectual evolution.
Her sudden absence leaves Leif grappling with profound loss once again, compounding the existential crisis he faced after Liv's death and his wavering beliefs in Norse mythology and Christianity. Mariam's teachings in science, astronomy, and navigation become Leif's guiding light as he continues his explorations, especially his forthcoming journey to North America.
The astrolabe and knowledge imparted by Mariam hold newfound significance, symbolizing not just practical tools but also emotional anchors that help Leif navigate both literal and metaphorical seas.
Moreover, inheriting Mariam's house and possessions in Constantinople adds a practical dimension to Leif's story, providing him with resources and tools crucial for his future expeditions. Yet, amidst these tangible legacies, Leif must confront the intangible void left by Mariam's absence a void that challenges his newfound resilience and threatens to reopen old wounds.
As 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 3 unfolds, Mariam's death serves as a catalyst for Leif's continued growth, shaping his determination, beliefs, and the legacy he seeks to forge beyond the shores of Europe.
What is the historical inspiration behind Mariam in 'Vikings: Valhalla'?
In the series, Leif and Harald travel with a diverse group, including an enslaver and Mariam, a Syrian polymath studying astronomy in Novgorod. While the exact historical details of Harald's travels are unclear, Mariam's character is rooted in history, inspired by Mariam Al-Ijliya, also known as Mariam al-Astrulabi.
She was a notable Muslim woman who crafted astrolabes in Aleppo, Syria, during the 10th century. Mariam Al-Ijliya was active during a period when women were admitted to the House of Wisdom in Baghdad, a vast library and center of learning. She utilized the knowledge gained there to apply new mathematical formulas to astrolabes, enhancing their effectiveness for charting celestial paths. This contribution significantly improved the instrument's utility in astronomy and navigation.
In 'Vikings: Valhalla', Mariam's character teaches Leif Eriksson to use an astrolabe, aiding his explorations well before his historic trip to the New World. This fictional relationship adds depth to Leif's journey, showing how he gained essential navigational skills. While the real Mariam's interactions with Norse explorers are speculative, her historical significance as a pioneer in astronomical instrumentation is well acknowledged and celebrated.
'Vikings: Valhalla' season 1 and 2 is available for streaming on Netflix.