What disease does Aethelflaed have?

In the popular historical drama The Last Kingdom, Aethelflaed, the beloved Mercian Queen, dies from advanced breast cancer, a detail revealed through Eadith's examination. Historically, however, the exact cause of Aethelflaed's death is not specified and remains an unspecified illness.

Aethelflaed's Illness in The Last Kingdom

In the fictional narrative of The Last Kingdom, Aethelflaed's health deteriorates due to advanced breast cancer. This diagnosis comes to light through the examination conducted by Eadith, highlighting a poignant and significant plot point within the series. The show takes artistic liberties with her death, depicting her passing in Uhtred's arms, which adds dramatic weight to the storyline.

Key aspects of her illness in the show include:

• Diagnosis: Advanced breast cancer.
• Discovery: Confirmed through examination by Eadith.
• Depiction: Her decline and eventual death are central to the series' plot, culminating in a highly emotional farewell.

Historical Context of Aethelflaed's Death

While The Last Kingdom provides a specific cause for Aethelflaed's death for dramatic purposes, historical records are less precise. Aethelflaed, often celebrated as the "Lady of the Mercians," was a formidable leader and strategist. Her death in 918 AD is recorded, but the exact illness that claimed her life is not detailed in contemporary accounts. Historians generally refer to her passing as being due to an unspecified illness, without any mention of symptoms that would directly point to breast cancer or any other specific disease.

Comparing Fictional and Historical Accounts

The table below summarizes the different accounts of Aethelflaed's demise:

This comparison illustrates how historical dramas often adapt or add details to historical figures' lives to enhance storytelling, while still acknowledging the known historical facts.