History's Vikings takes place in 9th century Scandinavia when people were mostly preoccupied with day-to-day survival. Not only does that mean that they absolutely had to learn how to fight, they also had to form profound friendships and allegiances to protect their own lives. Those who established relationships based on trust and mutual respect were more prosperous and successfully avoided lethal betrayals.
But not all Vikings were ruthless murderers with hearts of stone. Some characters would sooner sacrifice their own lives than to see any harm come to those they love. Others, on the other hand, had no qualms with killing their own people if it furthered their personal interests.
Befriend: Torvi
Torvi would make an amazing friend. After all, she barely has any negative traits, but she exceeds in bravery, loyalty, and comion. In Vikings, she adapted to any situation she found herself in. She started off as an obedient wife, but she ended up as a fierce shield maiden and an explorer.
As is evident from her friendship with Lagertha, she would never betray her friends and would die for those she loves in a heartbeat.
Avoid: Rollo
Throughout the show, Rollo has done several unforgivable things, such as repeatedly betraying his own people. He was also impulsive, unpredictable, and moody. When he was in a good mood, he was a hedonist, but unfortunately, those states never lasted long enough.
Rollo could be a friend one day and a foe the next, as is exemplified in the problematic relationship he has with Ragnar. It would be best to avoid him. Those who wronged Rollo didn't live to see another day.
Befriend: Floki
Floki is one of the most divisive characters on Vikings. While most fans loved this eccentric introvert, they weren't necessarily fond of his character arc. As Ragnar's best friend, Floki would follow him anywhere he went.
Not many other Norsemen were as loyal, principled, and honest as Floki. He would make for an amazing friend, especially if the other person was interested in spirituality, woodworking, and exploration of new territories.
Avoid: Aslaug
Aslaug didn't care for anybody, except her precious little boy, Ivar. In fact, her lack of emotion was outright chilling, at times.
When Siggy died, for example, and saved Aslaug's sons by doing so, Aslaug didn't shed a single tear. Most people don't like friends who are self-centered and entitled. Aslaug is both of those things.
Befriend: Athelstan
In the world of blood-thirsty Vikings, Athelstan was an oasis of peace and calm. He was one of the most likable characters in the entire series and would make for an amazing friend. He was educated, open-minded, and kind.
Judging from his friendship with Ragnar, he was an amazing conversationalist. Bookworms, introverts, and philosophy fans would instantly find a kindred soul in him.
Avoid: Ragnar
Ragnar might be charismatic and cunning, but he is also highly unpredictable and impulsive. He could murder people in the heat of a moment, as he did with Yidu. And as he aged, he didn't mellow out. Quite the contrary, in fact, he just kept on getting worse and worse.
It would best to stay away from the legendary Ragnar for when this man got angry, as he didn't hesitate to take his frustrations out on his friends.
Befriend: Lagertha
Fair, brave, and loving, Lagertha extends her sympathy to Vikings and strangers alike. She makes a conscious effort to surround herself with people she can trust and nurtures her relationships.
While most characters in the series look out for their own interests, Lagertha always wanted her people to thrive. It would be amazing to be in her inner circle. After all, she provides safety, comfort, and a place to call home.
Avoid: Björn
While there's no denying Björn makes for an inspiring leader, he doesn't excel at interpersonal relationships. He left nearly all of his partners high and dry and didn't even mourn his own daughter after she died of neglect.
Björn was a great warrior and strategist, but he was nearly incapable of empathy and care. At the beginning of the series, he was still likable, but as the seasons progressed, his personality turned sour. In the end, he acted as if he was better and smarter than everybody else.
Befriend: Ubbe
Out of all Ragnar's sons, Ubbe would make for the best friend. He wasn't as aggressive, ego-driven, and stubborn as the rest of them. While most Vikings highly valued violence and power, he preferred peace and comion.
Not only would Ubbe always lend his ear to his friends, but he would also make for an amazing travel buddy!
Avoid: Ivar
There are many reasons why it would be best to avoid Ivar at all costs. He is vengeful, angry, and incredibly emotionally unstable. Even those who were on his side didn't feel relaxed around him, as his mood fluctuated faster than anybody else's.
This is a man who murdered his own brother over an insult, and those who were around him constantly had to walk on eggshells or risk getting killed.