Love him or hate him, Askeladd is one hell of a character and a ruthless warrior on the battlefield. Such a character is a testament to the Vinland Saga writer’s ability to elicit conflicting emotions in the viewer. He is the sharp-witted leader of a mercenary band. Yet, one couldn’t shake the feeling that something more lurked beneath the war-monger persona. This observation is evident from the fact that up until the events leading to his death, his true motivations always remained elusive, perhaps even to himself.
Earlier in the story, he seems to draw no meaning or joy from his life, aimlessly pillaging villages with no grand purpose to tie his actions together. However, something changed when he met Prince Canute, who he thought would become a leader worthy of following. On another note, his relationship with Thorfinn, although a strenuous one, was much like a father-son bond, even though he killed the boy’s father and took him hostage. His moral ambiguities, silver tongue, and ultimate sacrifice make him an interesting character to analyze.
He Can Manipulate Anyone
Silver-Tongued Devil
Askeladd is no stranger to the world of deception. If the situation demands, he could crawl out of hell by sweet-talking the devil. After their fourth (and final) duel, Askeladd reveals how he used Thorfinn throughout childhood. He exploits Thorfinn’s gullibility by promising him a duel he would surely lose. In return, Thorfinn became his soldier, fighting the likes of Thorkell the tall himself, just for the glimmer of hope that one day he would avenge his father.
Prefers To Fight With His Head
Mind Over Matter
Askeladd’s greatest weapon on the battlefield was not a sword. He relied on his mind first and foremost. He realized that any battle is like a game of chess. To win, one must strategize, deceive, and stick to a plan but improvise when necessary. For him, being a good swordsman is just one of many components crucial to win a fight.
This fighting style differs significantly from warriors like Thorkell, who rely on sheer strength alone to crush their enemies. Upon realizing he cannot beat his enemy with brute force, Askeladd will rely on dirty tricks and psychological tactics to break their spirits.
Is A Father Figure To Thorfinn (Kind Of)
Mentor And Foe
Askeladd became Thorfinn’s sworn enemy the moment he killed his father. Thorfinn saw Askeladd as nothing more than a murderer, a savage without any morals or honor. Working for Askeladd was nothing more than a way to get him to duel. He wanted to best Askleadd in a battle, the way his father did, and then take his life with his hands.
However, during his time with Askeladd, the change in Thorfinn is apparent: he is being influenced and mentored without even knowing about it. The fact is evident in their last duel together when Askeladd says he will teach Thorfinn “how to kill someone you hate.”
Always Hides His True Motives
Did You Figure?
Throughout the series, we see Askeladd mocking the way Viking warriors fought. He thought they were dumb and brutish despite leading a band of mercenaries himself. However, his criticism was hidden from his subordinates and the rest of the world, leading them to think he was just like the rest of them.
His true allegiance always lay with the people of Wales, whom he wished to rescue from the tyrannical Viking rule. This duality adds depth and meaning to Askeladd’s character by providing a valuable lesson: people are not always what they seem.
He Helped Canute Rise To Power
The Gambler
No one believed Canute would ascend the throne after his father, but Askeladd begged to differ. He saw in the young prince what he saw in Thors – a potential to become a great leader. But the prince’s adolescence and reluctance to speak up was an issue. Therefore, Askeladd took it upon himself to provide the seeds for his transformation. By killing Ragnar, Canute’s caretaker, he pulled him out of his shell, and lo and behold, a general was born.
The Ultimate Sacrifice
The Mad King
It was no secret that King Sweyn wanted his son killed. Askeladd knew that as long as the old king sat on the throne, the people of Wales would continue to suffer. Helping Canute take his father’s place was the only way he could safeguard his people’s interests.
So, he devises a cunning plan to kill King Sweyn while maintaining Canute’s cover. During a gathering, he mocks Sweyn and declares himself the promised king according to an old wive’s tale. Then, he knocks Sweyn’s head from his shoulder with a clean cut and pretends to go mad, killing any soldier who dares to come near. He allows Canute to stab him, painting him the hero who avenged his father and the new king. Can you be more badass, Askeladd?
Was Askeladd A Good Guy?
Askeladd was a morally gray character. He was a ruthless pragmatist, willing to do what it takes to reach his goal. Throughout the show, he does vile and unforgivable things, but at the same time, his concern for the people of Wales shows his good side. All in all, he is by no means a god person, but he is not a ‘villain’ either.
Does Thorfinn Get His Revenge Against Akeladd in Vinland Saga?
No, Thorfinn sadly does not get his revenge against Askeladd for killing his father. When Askeladd killed King Sweyn, there was nothing else Canute could do except take his life. Frankly, it was in Thorfinn’s best interests that he didn’t get to kill Askeladd, as a vengeful mindset is not a fulfilling one.
Who Hired Askeladd In Vinland Saga?
The Jomsviking commander Floki hired Askeladd and put a hit on Thors for deserting his ranks. The troll of Jom was tired of the way of Vikings and set out on a journey to Iceland to find the secret to become a true warrior. Sadly, Thors is ambushed by Askeladd and his men, who use underhanded means to kill the great warrior.
Was Askeladd From Vinland Saga A Real Person?
Although Vinland Saga is highly regarded for its historical accuracy, not all characters and events are historically true. Askeladd is one of those characters who don’t have a real counterpart. However, it is possible that the manga creator took inspiration from some Viking mercenaries who existed in that period.
