Aethelwulf, portrayed in the historical drama series “Vikings,” emerges as a formidable figure in the tumultuous world of 9th-century England. As the son of King Ecbert, he inherits not only his father’s throne but also the weight of expectation and the burden of leadership in a time of intense political intrigue and Viking raids.
Aethelwulf’s journey is one of transformation, navigating the treacherous waters of power struggles, familial dynamics, and religious fervor as he strives to uphold his duty to his kingdom and his faith. With a stoic demeanor and a keen sense of duty, Aethelwulf’s character is a compelling portrayal from the Vikings period. He encounters many challenges faced by rulers in an era defined by uncertainty and upheaval. He ends up meeting his demise after a bee sting where he was unexpectedly highly allergic.
How to Achieve Aethelwulf’s Hair and Bear Style
Aethelwulf does not wear a very distinctly Viking hair or beard style. This makes it a nice and easy hairstyle to recreate. To emulate Aethelwulf’s distinctive hair and beard style from “Vikings,” you’ll need to cultivate a look that appears effortless. Start by growing out your hair to a length that falls between a short and medium style. The key is to have enough length to create texture and movement without it appearing too unkempt. Communicate with your barber or stylist to ensure they understand the look you’re going for. Ask for a cut that is shorter on the sides and back while leaving slightly more length on top to play with.
When styling your hair, opt for a texturising spray product such as a texturizing paste or clay. Warm up a small amount of product between your palms and work it evenly through damp or dry hair, using your fingers to tousle and create a messy, textured appearance. Avoid combing or brushing too much, as the goal is to maintain a natural and effortless look.
For the beard, allow it to grow out to a short to medium length, depending on your 
preference. Use a beard trimmer with an adjustable guard to maintain an even length throughout, leaving it slightly longer than stubble. To achieve the messy look, lightly tousle the beard with your fingers after applying a beard oil or balm to keep it soft and hydrated. For those with longer beards, try our article on the best beard braids to try.
Overall, the key to mastering Aethelwulf’s messy beard and short hairstyle is embracing a relaxed and effortless approach to grooming. The look however still maintains a sense of style and individuality.