Vikings: Valhalla features Jarl Haakon, a respected leader, in a loving same-sex relationship with Åsa. Their partnership is depicted with dignity and acceptance, without facing prejudice or negative narrative consequences. The show normalizes queer identity, portraying it as an integral and affirmed aspect of a powerful character's life, contributing positively to her complexity.

The show features prominent female characters like Freydis Eriksdotter and Jarl Haakon, who are skilled warriors. They are repeatedly shown engaging in and winning close-quarters physical combat against multiple male opponents using various melee weapons.

The character Jarl Haakon, historically known as Haakon Sigurdsson and a male ruler, is portrayed as a female leader in "Vikings: Valhalla."

The series portrays Christianity as a powerful, often violent, and intolerant force driving conquest and forced conversion. While individual Christians show nuance, the overall narrative highlights the destructive impact of Christian zealotry on pagan societies.