The series introduces us to the brutal and mysterious world of Ragnar Lothbrok, a Viking warrior and farmer who yearns to explore—and raid—the distant shores across the ocean. His ambition puts him at odds with local chieftain Earl Haraldson, who insists on sending his raiders to the impoverished east rather than the uncharted west. When Ragnar teams up with his boat builder friend Floki to craft a new generation of intrepid ships capable of conquering the rough northern seas, the stage is set for conflict.

A Viking warrior seeks approval from his community's leader in the opener of this series chronicling the medieval adventures of a band of Norsemen.

Ragnar gathers a crew in preparation for an epic journey; the earl is overcome with paranoia.

Ragnar and his crew raid a monastery, securing a bounty of riches that impresses the earl.

The Vikings return to England; the earl plants a spy within Ragnar's crew.

A prophet predicts the earl's future; Ragnar's home and farm are destroyed.

Ragnar faces off with the Earl after learning of Rollo's torture.

Ragnar presents a proposal to King Aelle.

Ragnar attempts to cope with the death of his unborn son; Lagertha seeks answers from the gods.

Ragnar attempts to settle a land dispute; a plague breaks out.