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Now I can tell that at first when Askeladd introduced himself to Thors, he said he was son of Olaf, but when Thors showed himself as a true warrior he said, "in the name of my father, Lydia (his mother), I will keep my promise."
This is exactly what happens now in his story about his mom and artorius. Artorius comes back to save his country from savages in the same way askeladd stepped up to save his country/mother's grave from savages (swern's army). He became the hero his mother waited so long for, he saved canute and told thorfinn to move on, showing that despite every time he said he didn't care about thorfinn, he cared enough to ask about how he'll live his life after all this. What a fantastic end for Askeladd
The vinland saga experience is basically e1 - "oh so that was like the prologue" e4 - "oh ok i was wrong, that was the prologue" e6 - "fool me twice shame on me, that was the prologue" end of s1 - "holy shit the entire first season was the prologue" end of s2 - "wait a minute... the entire past two seasons have just been a prologue!"
"Become a true warrior, son of Thors" is such a good line and proves just how vivid Askeladd remembered his encounter with Thors. 100% one of the best season finales. Absolute masterpiece. Now it's time for season 2, the REAL story the mangaka has been setting up this whole time. It's going to be a great journey, and it's great it starts tomorrow!
"The guy who's a slave to money holds a whip, and pretends to be the master of a slave he bought with his money. He just doesn't realize it himself. Everyone is a slave to something" - Askeladd. One of the best written characters in anime/manga. A prideful man who died protecting his country and his king
I think you assumed Floki is Thorkell's brother. He isn't. Thorkell's brother is Sigvaldi, Floki is just a colleague. Sigvaldi hasn't been on screen, I don't think
What's also interesting is the fact that they display Askeladd's death similarly to Thors'. Both times, the surroundings go completely white except for the spot in the middle where Thorfinn is clinging to the dying person. It's a nice touch that hints at Thorfinn's relationship to Askeladd.
Makoto Yukimura (Vinland's mangaka) on Gigguk's interview : "I really wasnt sure how askeladd felt about thorfinn,Askeladd might not have cared in the slightest if thorfinn had died anytime anywhere. But, when he was on the verge of the end of his life, he made sure thorfinn didnt come with him. He pushed away Thorfinn thinking he shouldn't have to die with him and to my surprise, i hadn't thought about him like that right up until i was going to write this scene. There were Askeladd's own words,i cant think otherwise. Askeladd had actually cared for thorfinn to an extent and even i didnt know about that up until that scene."
ah, and now we've completed the trend... from Olaf, to Thors, to Ragnar, to Sweyn, to the man in the village they raided, to even himself... Askeladd has never met a father figure he couldn't kill. in all seriousness though, this completes the picture that the narrative has been painting of Askeladd all along. he's the child of the violent Danish conqueror Olaf, and the enslaved Welsh former noblewoman Lydia, and this is the culmination of his heritage. because of the circumstances Olaf put him in, he gained the name, Askeladd. covered in ash. literally besmirched. he wore it all his life. but the name his mother truly gave him, was Lucius Artorius Castus, after their ancestor, the hero of legend, who was supposed to return someday and protect their homeland. Askeladd had this in him all along. from the very beginning, when Askeladd raised his sword against Olaf in defense of his mother, he was acting in Artorius' stead. stepping into the role of the hero, when no hero would appear. someone must do it. a person... not a hero, not a god. and yet... Askeladd could not accept that it was really him who was supposed to fill that role in earnest. even when a sword felt fitting in his hand, he attributed it to his Danish blood, and Olaf's violence. and, as a self fulfilling prophecy, Askeladd chose to reject any kind of honorable call to altruism, all his life. he had to be underhanded, in order to kill Olaf in the first place. he had to be brutal... he had to harm that man with the tools that Olaf himself had taught him in the first place. and with compromised morals like these... why pretend to be a more noble person than what Askeladd considers to be the truth? why even try? and so, Askeladd became something he despised. came to resemble it so closely that he literally did the very same thing to Thorfinn, that Olaf did to him. presiding over him. teaching him brutality, in direct opposition to the desires of the beloved fallen parent that is actually dear to this child's heart... the one the conqueror killed. and despite everything... when Askeladd first saw Thors, he knew. he understood that these were the qualities that Artorius should possess. this is the behavior that denotes his heroic archetype. if ever there was a man worth following, it was Thors. but by then, Askeladd had already given up. this bitter, jaded, cynical pragmatism that he lived by... it kept him from committing to the path that should've mattered to him most. he killed the best hero that the world could've given him, but cynicism was never going to change his true desires. that's really the message here. rejecting hope doesn't change what a person really wants deep down. Askeladd's whole character is defined by trying to outfox everyone. trying to stay one step ahead of all the enemies he's made. trying to come out the winner, specifically by making sure that everyone he encounters loses. Askeladd is not excluded from this. everything he truly wants, deep down, is always out of reach if he isn't willing to try for it. he's just depriving himself. he couldn't admit that he wanted to try and give Wales its hero, until he'd backed himself into such a tight corner that there was no choice but to die for it. the one bitter move left available to him, and yet, it feels like he finally got to live without artifice for that brief moment at the end. I think it's significant that Askeladd starts to display parallels to Thors as his final hour approaches. and this is something that I had really wanted to mention back during episode 20, but couldn't until now. back in episode 2, we get a particular scene... Lief is at the pier, and he tells one of the girls from the village not to worry about Ari and the other boys. Thors is only taking as many as can sail the boat, and he's planning on sending them back home as soon as he can hire a crew to take him the rest of the way. then the girl asks "does that mean Thors is going to the battlefield alone?" and as she says this, we get a shot of Thors from behind, standing solitary in the snow. I consider this scene to be a direct parallel to the scene in episode 20, just after Askeladd sends Atli away, telling him never to fight on a battlefield again. the shot of Askeladd after Atli leaves is framed very similarly, and for good reason. this is Askeladd sending able men away from his own personal battlefield, because he knows there's better out there for them. Askeladd will send them home, and he will go to the battlefield alone. and just like Thors' history as a warrior coming back to haunt him... Askeladd crafted the conditions for the situation he's in. karma has come for him, and he'll meet it as best he can. and it's not just that. Thors died for the sake of his son, and his crew. he traded his life for their safety, and won the fight that mattered. by dying the way he does, Askeladd is going to set Canute up for success, to set Thorfinn free of his revenge quest, and to give Wales a better future, even if he'll never see it. it's altruism. it's the point where cynicism falls away, and everything that matters is all that is left. and so, surrounded by enemies, Askeladd stands tall, makes an altruistic sacrifice, and leaves this world behind, while Thorfinn tries desperately to hold on. the way he's been living his life all this time... Thorfinn has only ever lost, over and over again. he only knows how to lose. his true fight is to step into a future, beyond what Thors or Askeladd could live to see, and find out what he may stand to gain, for the first time ever. this is the battle that a true warrior fights, and it'll be the hardest one.
@@bohdanpyzh2712 idk Toji well enough (been dragging my feet on watching JJK season 2) but what's his dad kill count? has he, himself, died? if not, I think Askeladd may take this category, though I'm open to being wrong.😅
I just love that Askeladd changed Thorfinn on his last moments. He putted Thorfinn in the right direction when he said "move forward already, don't be stuck in such a boring place"
also, can I just say how much every episode in season 1 is recontextualized by knowing everything about Askeladd the entire time? a rewatch is crazy. knowing what must've been going through Askeladd's head on the boat when he met Thors. knowing how he must've felt directly after acquiring Thorfinn as a tag along. that scene, where Thorfinn had a sword held over Askeladd's head as he slept, but chose not to kill him that way. the fact that Askeladd was actually awake, and didn't do anything to stop it... and it's still unclear what that meant, even if there's more depth to it now! was Askeladd willing to let Thorfinn kill him that way, if he chose to? was Askeladd disappointed when Thorfinn backed down from a dishonorable course of action like that? it kind of casts accidental judgement onto Askeladd's own decision to kill Olaf the way he did... but Thorfinn couldn't have known how much weight that would hold. or, maybe, Askeladd just wasn't worried about being threatened by a small child like that. who's to say? when Askeladd raids villages, plunders civilian homes for loot, and kills everyone there... is this out of spite for those who live on soil that the people of Wales were cast off of? does Askeladd see the irony of the way he sets his feet squarely in Olaf's cruel footsteps? look at the way he talks about slaves... the way he says that anyone can be used, with the right approach. it's an extremely callous stance to take, given what he and his mother went through, but it's almost like he's still bitter about that. like, this is just the way the world is. he and his mother suffered, so why should anyone else be immune? and at the same time, he's also doing this to Thorfinn. Askeladd knows he's manipulating him. he's fully aware. it almost seems like there's this push and pull... Askeladd has to be aware of how he's ruining Thorfinn, but it's almost like Thorfinn is proof that this kind of ruination can't be escaped. it's reinforcing the cynicism. even the son of Thors can't just choose to be better than this. or at least, that's what would be easiest to believe. but then Thorfinn still has this annoying honor system that he adheres to. somewhere, deep down, Thorfinn still has intuitive knowledge of right and wrong, and he still knows what separates a good man from a scumbag, even if his (lack of) upbringing makes it near impossible to choose the better path. Thorfinn is ruined because the things he values are so diametrically opposed to the type of person he's becoming. Askeladd is turning Thorfinn into something that Thorfinn knows he hates. and that reflects right back onto Askeladd, who is no different. maybe this is part of why Askeladd jumps at the opportunity, when Canute turns up. Artorius is never going to appear, but Askeladd already figured that out a long time ago. a person has to do it, and Canute can become that person, if Askeladd goes all in. even back in episode 10, when Askeladd hears that Thorkell has kidnapped Canute, and he decides they're going to steal him... I think Askeladd saw that as his moment. this is after Thorfinn and Askeladd have that talk, on the hillside, about how Thorfinn will beat him eventually. Askeladd is getting older, and Thorfinn is getting stronger... Askeladd expects it someday. history turns over in much the same way, and Askeladd gives a bit of history about the fall of the Romans. and all of this culminates in Askeladd's observation, about the irony of dawn in the age of twilight. when Bjorn asks him what his plan is for capturing Canute, Askeladd says "who knows. this is the age of twilight, Bjorn. let's go out with a bang." Askeladd knew he was going to have to play his full hand here. this was for everything. they go to Wales, Askeladd meets with Gratianus, he makes his intentions known... Askeladd is even willing to cash in his ultimate long con. he's never liked the Danes, and he's willing to throw any one of them under the bus for the sake of his true goal. but that's Askeladd's entire problem. when you spend your whole life throwing people under the bus, you can't count on anything but their resentment. and while Thorfinn perfectly displays how reliable resentment can be... Askeladd also knows what he'd deserve, if anyone he's ever victimized truly got what was fair. Askeladd's defense against the morally fair demands of the slighted, was his cynicism. to drop that would be to admit that he has little grounds to demand the things he wants in the first place. his whole plan for feeding his men during their long march was raiding and pillaging. he killed Ragnar just to get him out of the way of Canute's development, into the kind of person Askeladd wanted. for the sake of Wales, Askeladd dismantled the warmest parental relationship that Canute had. all Ragnar ever wanted was to raise Canute as his son, and ensure his safety and happiness. but Askeladd has already proven that when good men die and leave their sons to him, he can harden them into a formidable tool... and he knows how to use them. and yet, what does Askeladd have in the end? his crew gets dismantled. Bjorn dies, only shortly after the two of them admit that they're friends. Canute hates him. Thorfinn hates him. and for the sake of his mother's homeland, a place that he values highly, but somewhere he's never lived, and never will... Askeladd is left with no other option but to sacrifice everything. could different means have led to better ends? maybe... but where, along this road, could any of this have been diverted? I think the hardest part about all of this, is that it's easy to see the better life that Askeladd could've led. if he'd been able to care about anyone properly... what could he have had? I love the shot at the end, of the dagger falling from Thorfinn's hand. it directly calls back to Thors dropping his sword, all the way back in episode 1. that weapon encapsulates all the things that Thorfinn has done, since it was handed to him in the first place. and in an instant, it falls, and this chapter is over.
The thing with Askeladd is that even after 24 episodes for us and YEARS for them he still respected Thors to no end. He became the father figure he took away from Thorfinn, even tho a messed up one he still got to raise that kid in a way. All this because of a promise he made to a warrior. That shows perfectly with Thorfinn's reaction, he wasn't just angry his "prey" got taken from him he was devastated because he lost Askeladd. The guy lost his point of reference a second time. And in a way, both deaths were his fault. He got Thors killed by getting taken hostage by Bjorn and he got Askeladd killed by screaming at him, taking his attention away from the incoming danger. Or at least that's how I interpreted it
The way I see it, Askeladd purposely let Canute stab him because : 1) Askeladd was feigning madness so if he fought back against Canute he would have to kill him to keep up the act 2) It was the perfect scenario for Canute to earn the respect of the people in the room 3) Canute was not an experienced fighter, whereas Askeladd could take on all the guards on his own 4) Thorfinn asked him "How could you let them stab you there, you idiot ?", so it seems like a mistake Askeladd wouldn't normally do
What's interesting about Askeladd's 'feigned' insanity here is that it is indeed an intentional act; but he is simultaneously very truly that crazy; he felt every moment of that in his bones. He chose to let himself go in that moment.
When the King asked him to choose between "Wales and Canute", Askeladd just chose both It may seem like he did what he did losing his mind over the king insulting his mother, but Askeladd actually did this to kill two bird with one stone. Paving the way for Canute to become the king and thereby saving Wales. Its the only thing he could do to save both, by sacrificing himself. So its not just Canute taking advantage of this situation. Askeladd wanted Canute to do it.
I love how Thorfinn catches Askeladd as he falls. He cares in spite of himself; I think Thorfinn is realizing what a father figure Askeladd was to him, in this scene.
artorious/king arthur the legendary hero. parallel that with... askeladd the nameless child of a sex slave born of rape and grew up to be a scoundrel who history will never remember. he nevertheless became the hero his motherland needed sacrificing his life and honor, as well as never betraying his liege a deeply calculating man, but also quick on his feet. he can use his emotions to provide inspiration to a dilemma instead of clouding his judgement
this episode will always resonate, the music, the voice acting, and script really puts you into that singular moment especially when Askeladd ask him "how he's gonna live his life"
ONE OF THE GREATEST EPISODES OF ALL TIME, Askeladd single handedly gave both Thorfinn & Canute their new meaning for life while getting pressed & using his anger to create a perfect opportunity, Easily one of the most well written Antagonists for a reason - From here on he'll not be present in the story but his presence will be in the Next Season & I CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO START SEASON 2 NOW (specifically cuz it got my favourite Arc from the Entire story) YOU'RE GONNA HAVE A GREAT TIME & SOME OF THE INTERACTIONS THERE WILL BE INSANE 🛐
i like to think of this moment as askeladd's ultimate catharsis, because aside from his overarching plan; like a childish fantasy about beating a bully, he gets to cut off the head of the people he's so despised, and with the crown on his own head for a change, slaughter its retainers it feels more like an absurd dream come true than an act to me
Thorfinn in the end loved Askeladd in a twisted way. His whole life has revolved around the man for over a decade. His last outburst about duelling and screaming was a child's temper tantrum. His dagger slipping from his hand is such a beautiful moment, that dagger represents his childhood and his sins.
I thought the dagger represents his quest for revenge. It was his fathers dagger, the dagger with which he swore to kill Askeladd to avenge his father. He clung to that dagger like he clung to his revenge. But now it is finally time to let go.
@@loenk2651 I thought of it almost like the apple of Eden. When he touched it he was introduced to violence and evil. Ever since he was handed the dagger he has known nothing but suffering and the cruelty of others and his own depravity. I think your idea is more the actual intention. I just think it fits well.
my own thoughts on this are that Thorfinn looked to Askeladd as his waypoint. Askeladd and his men were the original people who made Thorfinn feel powerless. and for Thorfinn, that feeling of powerlessness was something detestable that he sought to erase. Thorfinn states that he wants to kill Askeladd, but what Thorfinn really wants is one half communication, and one half validation. he wants to hurt Askeladd enough to communicate how much he is hurting, and he wants Askeladd to validate his efforts by showing that he's stronger than he used to be. that's why Askeladd makes him angrier and angrier, whenever he acts all flippant and nonchalant. because Thorfinn is still failing to communicate the amount of pain he's in. and that's why Thorfinn constantly bends over backwards to fulfill everything Askeladd asks of him. sure, it's the conditions for the duel, but Thorfinn could just attack Askeladd, and Askeladd would defend himself. as long as Askeladd isn't surprised, and is able bodied at the time, he doesn't have to be willing. but no... Thorfinn does everything Askeladd says. because he's constantly trying to prove that he's good enough. he's constantly checking himself against Askeladd, to see if he measures up. Thorfinn's relationship to Askeladd is one where he's constantly seeking. some form of response... a dent in Askeladd's armor, or the satisfaction of catching him off guard... any reaction. and emotionally, I think Thorfinn really doesn't know how to exist without that. he uses Askeladd as a place to put all of his anger and grief, but without the motivation of his pursuit, Thorfinn has never learned what to do with himself. I think that's why he tries to pivot all of that onto Canute for a moment. Thorfinn literally doesn't know how to do anything else.
This was never Thorfinn's story. This was Askeladd's story. The End Of The Prologue. Season Two gets on with Thorfinn's story. I mentioned last episode that Askeladd was an invention of the author, but I forgot to mention that he was apparently based on a Welsh trickster deity, Olaf The Peacock. Just a bit of trivia. I have really enjoyed your reactions these past weeks, and am looking forward to season two -- jokingly referred to as "Farmland Saga". It is about farmland, but oh so much more.
that part about a person changing like a flip of a switch, VERY true, theres literally been alcoholics, going to there therapists, for two or three weeks, no change, and then suddenly theyre like, yeah i quit. this is definitely a thing. (the therapist i heard this from was dr k, from healthygamergg btw)
Floki is not Thorkell's brother thats Sigvaldi the chief of the jomsvikings, Floki is the commander who is yes decently strong but not on Thorfinns, askeladd and especially Thorkell's level
23:05 This moment is my favorite of Season one. This conversation between them, the only true one I think they've ever had. Thorfinn, just by catching him gently the way he does, proves to me that he saw something in Askeladd beyond his desire for vengeance. I believe that, truthfully, Thorfinn threw the duel subconsciously in Episode 22 because he's actually *afraid* of killing the target of his revenge. He didn't want to lose Askeladd, not truly, and so he allowed himself to be baited with rage. I think Askeladd may have seen this too, and it plays a part in how angry and bitter he was in his dismissal of Thorfinn afterwards. I think Askeladd saying, "We are enemies, after all, right?" is a slight hint that he was aware of it. Especially given that Thorfinn had essentially said that he would help him escape. And then, he tells Thorfinn to live the life meant for him: the life of a true warrior. You cannot convince me that this man felt nothing for Thorfinn up to this point. Anyway, those are my thoughts and interpretations. Also, yes: Canute is an amazing person. The dynamic and relationship between Thorfinn and the prince isn't over. I can't wait for you to see what next season has in store for them! Amazing reaction. Thank you for your understanding in reacting to these at the same time. I do believe they go better together. I'm greatly enjoying this, and I hope you'll keep it up! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
this part 23:53 is what kills me... Thorfinn trying to treat him the exact same way he usually would, like this isn't even real. and just sort of swearing as Askeladd bleeds, like it's an annoyance. Thorfinn is basically trying to keep up the same hard outer shell that Askeladd always put on all the time, only for Askeladd to drop the act entirely. he's been moving toward it for a while now... but it took Askeladd his whole life to reach that point, in his final moments, and he never taught Thorfinn anything about being genuine. I feel like Thorfinn never wanted Askeladd to die, the entire time. I think he primarily wanted him to hurt. every time Thorfinn was frustrated and angry, his first instinct was always to throw it all at Askeladd, as viciously as he could, and Askeladd would take it every time. often too easily... that was the source of a lot of Thorfinn's frustration in the first place. but only because it didn't feel like they were both hurting equally. Thorfinn wants to communicate his pain, and be validated. you can't do any of that with a dead man. but he's also unapologetically harsh to Askeladd, because Askeladd has always been unapologetically harsh to him. when Askeladd was kicking the shit out of Thorfinn, I think part of it was because he and Thorfinn reflect each other. they're all too alike, in ways that they each hate to see, and neither of them knows how to fix it. but that's just what Thorfinn might have the opportunity to do, now that Askeladd is gone... and Askeladd knows it.
What Askeladd did was the best solution that he gad at hand to save both Canute and Wales. He never went mad, he executed his last plan then pretended to be crazy so that Canute could come up as the hero... Also, by having Thorfin kill him, he would also have been seen as his enemy, but that didn't go well.
That dagger falling scene is like actual magic. First time watching this episode my jaw just dropped at that moment and I was just in disbelief for several minutes processing that ending
The only reason people told you to watch them back to back was because they hoped to see your reaction to both of them back to back, haha. Good on you for sticking to the upload schedule.
I glad you liked it. Absolute one of my best, but the best, finales and prologues that I have ever watched. Now is where the real story starts Luke, I hope you enjoy it.
the ending to season one alone just that dagger dropping makes this one of the best animes out there the music everything nothing ive ever seen comes close to this :) look forward to seeing season 2 with you and what youll think of it :)
In his final moments, Askeladd did what he's good at, Slaying Fathers Toplist: -Olaf (he's own Father) -Thors (Thorfinn's Father) -Sweyn (Canute's Father) Happy Advance Fathers Day Luke😅
Vinland Saga is like night and day, season 1 is his night (his hatred and emptiness arc) and season 2 is his day. Can't wait for your reaction to season 2.
Most people can't flip that switch Luke, in particular a lot of the characters in the shows people complain about the character is going through something more than just a rebellious phrase. I think Canute works simply because the change he went through was from a catalyst that literally changed his world and he was in a "do or die" situation. And to be quite frank I think the change Canute went through sounds much more drastic than the kind you describe for yourself. I also think Thorfinn making the change would be harder than you because Thorfinn's behavior is based off a very critical moment from his young life.
10:00 I totally agree with you. My dad for instance, when he was 40 something the doctors told him his lungs were started to be in terrible state and if he keeps smoking, he'll not survive. My dad bought the things to help him stopping smoking. He was so disgustzd by these things + couldn't sleep during the night because of dhat the doctor told him that he threw absolutely all his cigarettes, all his helping stuff for it and he never ever smoked again since.
I loved this ride so so damn much. Boy was this accurate at 7:42 😂 You were right on. It was a brilliant move as a strategist/tactician/mastermind, saving both Canute and Wales, but at the cost of his life. That moment where Thorkell held Canute upright, preventing him from having a breakdown over killing his first man, always makes me tear up. I love Canute and Thorkell so much. He may look like he's got brawns for brains, but in some scenes like this, we see how he IS really sensible, intelligent, mature despite being the war-loving big kid he is, and yet down to earth. And, agreed, despite their enmity, I feel like Thorfinn and Askeladd had a bit of a father-son dynamic, not one with love, but where Askeladd saw himself in Thorfinn and wanted to teach him things he wished he knew at his age, wanted to free Thorfinn from his revenge quest by offering his life, and wanted him to live beyond this, to experience life beyond what Thors did, to be a ''true warrior'' but not in the violence, murderer way. More like a philosophical warrior, like a warrior at heart and mind, valuing life instead of killing, like Thors. I feel like Thorfinn also put him on a pedestal as a skilled fighter, and maybe even looked up to him in weird ways. Not saying Askeladd was a replacement Thors in any way, not at all, just that he was the only father-figure Thorfinn could have while growing up with his whole attention on him, dedicated to learning his behaviours to win against him. Also chuckled at the intro where you mentioned there'd be no violence or ''red wedding'' moments at this banquet😂 This was so fun to watch. Excited for season 2!
What did you mean about Thorkell and his brother? Noone in that room was his sibling. Thorkell is the brother of the leader of Jomsvikings, who hasn't been shown in the anime yet.
Thors's dagger falling at the end was a bit of a metaphor. It captured Thorfinn's entire journey up to this point, meaning that his current journey ended here. All events brought him here, where he lost his only meaning in life, but... The end of one path sometimes means the beginning of another :)
The quick early episode recap is definitely something Vinland does at times. But it isn't so much to recap what happened, but more so to build up a specific atmosphere before proceeding.
I am one of those people who changed in an instant. I was a very stressed out and apathetic person, but as soon as i saw my son when he was born, i knew i needed to be better. It was literally like in a show where there were flashbacks on who i was and what i needed to do. It really does happen.
Luke do you now see why we said to watch 23 and 24 together? Imagine watching a play and just as you are about to enter the climax, they take a 7 day break (aka ep 23). It completely kills all the tension built up so far and lessens the overall experience. Doesn't always need to be a cliffhanger for it to be a bad time to end an episode.
Vinland Saga is ultimately a story about growing, not physically but mentally and emotionally. S1 is amazing but is more enjoyable for 'children', where as S2 is a story directed right at the heart of adults who can truly understand it. You're in for a god damn ride.
34:01 We are not mid way through Vinland Saga, in terms of the larger narrative, this was chapter 1, well, as the name of the episode suggests, this was the prologue, chapter 0 Like, all of this was just backstory xD
💀 I was actually watching something else and instantaneously clicked on it because I really wanted to see that reaction, I still have to watch it all 😅😂 but I'm pretty sure you loved it and want to watch next season 😁 Askeladd was the best character ever, best villain and actually the main character of this prologue 😂 yep it was just the prologue, it's crazy right. There's a lot to come, and you will feel a lot of emotions when you see it all.. it's going to hit really hard, because reading the manga is getting me anxious 😳
25:40 Did you notice? This background of white space and black shadows. Yes, the same background was used when Thors died in episode 4. This suggests that Askeladd was not only a hated enemy to Thorfinn, but also a second father. Also, at the end, Thorfinn lets go of his father's knife, which reflects his life so far. In other words, he had to let go of his only revenge and everything in his life so far. Anyway, the prologue is over. Season 2 is even more amazing. I look forward to the day when I witness the wonderful ending.
just a heads-up, season 2 is VASTLY different, you gotta give it a few episodes to see the direction the story and characters take, but just know that PEAKLAND SAGA is coming. Season 1 is an amazing anime, season 2 is ... art. What you said about change, i don't believe it's instant, i believe that all your life can be interpreted as a puzzle, you collect the pieces but you don't always know what it's going to be but you start to form a picture in your head, and there is a crucial moment when you find that one piece that falls in place and makes the whole picture make sense, i hope what i say it's somewhat coherent 😅 All your past experiences put you on a path, and when you realize it, you can decide to keep going on that path or to step on a different path, and this is what we're going to see in season 2, beautiful 🙂
10:33 Hey, same kind of shift as me! Though it was the idea that my ability to go to college would be gone if I messed up with my grades and stuff in high school. I was told it enough, and changed from being an angry, reckless but somehow managing student, to a student who was focused and started getting perfect grades, and still strive to get that. What changed was being placed in a lower class in one subject, since I was a few days late to change my grade to actually meet the next level of that subject. I turned in too few assignments on time and paid the price after getting away with slacking, and it was just one change. Sorry for continuing a slight rant, but another change was wanting to be different from a bad group of my family, so I shifted my focus over a very short time, growing more aware of what I did and said. Kinda weird, changing so much in almost an instant, but sometimes pretty beneficial.
I AGREE WITH YOU ABOUT CHANGE!!!! I'll use Dostoevsky as an example. Bro was sentenced to death by shooting. Last moment, some dude came, canceled it, and he was sent to a camp for labor. Way he viewed life changed. He wrote a letter in his cell to his brother: “When I look back on my past and think how much time I wasted on nothing, how much time has been lost in futilities, errors, laziness, incapacity to live; how little I appreciated it, how many times I sinned against my heart and soul - then my heart bleeds. Life is a gift, life is happiness, every minute can be an eternity of happiness! I am neither downhearted nor discouraged. Life is everywhere, life is in ourselves, not in the exterior. I shall have human beings around me, and to be a man among men and to remain one always, not to lose heart and not to give in no matter what occurs - that is what life is, that is its task, I have become aware of this. This idea has entered into my life and blood.”
The best part about this episode is actually.. this is just the Epilogue! I can't wait what season 2 has to offer to us. Maybe, we will finally getting to see a real "Vinland Saga" 🤔
7:59 Thorkell's brother? Sigvaldi is in Jomborg, not in England. Who you thought about? 18:03 Correct, he is wearing toga. This is the end of Canute, Askeladd, Thorkell and Thorfinn conquering whole world. It was my dream. My perfect epic.
He probably thinks Floki is the chief of the Jomsvikings and therefore Thorkell's brother. But Floki is only a commander, as you said Sigvaldi the actual chief is in Jomsborg.
This story is incredible, what is to come is indescreptible. Actually if it can be described, but I don't want to make spoilers of the emotions it will transmit to you. That's how good the story is😅
Great! Now that we're done with the prologue the story can actually start. 😂 Unironically though I much prefer season 2 (my personal favorite season of any anime) and I can't wait to see you react to it!
WELL... THAT WAS SURPRISING 😳
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still waiting for the patreon upload lol
Now I can tell that at first when Askeladd introduced himself to Thors, he said he was son of Olaf, but when Thors showed himself as a true warrior he said, "in the name of my father, Lydia (his mother), I will keep my promise."
This is exactly what happens now in his story about his mom and artorius. Artorius comes back to save his country from savages in the same way askeladd stepped up to save his country/mother's grave from savages (swern's army). He became the hero his mother waited so long for, he saved canute and told thorfinn to move on, showing that despite every time he said he didn't care about thorfinn, he cared enough to ask about how he'll live his life after all this. What a fantastic end for Askeladd
😭
“How do you plan to live your life… Thorfinn”. Those words truly stuck to me man. A profound story
🤯
And it's hard to believe that this whole season was just the Prologue to the main story of Vinland Saga
😳😳
The vinland saga experience is basically
e1 - "oh so that was like the prologue"
e4 - "oh ok i was wrong, that was the prologue"
e6 - "fool me twice shame on me, that was the prologue"
end of s1 - "holy shit the entire first season was the prologue"
end of s2 - "wait a minute... the entire past two seasons have just been a prologue!"
"Become a true warrior, son of Thors" is such a good line and proves just how vivid Askeladd remembered his encounter with Thors.
100% one of the best season finales. Absolute masterpiece. Now it's time for season 2, the REAL story the mangaka has been setting up this whole time. It's going to be a great journey, and it's great it starts tomorrow!
Excited to continue on this ride with you all!
"The guy who's a slave to money holds a whip, and pretends to be the master of a slave he bought with his money. He just doesn't realize it himself. Everyone is a slave to something" - Askeladd.
One of the best written characters in anime/manga. A prideful man who died protecting his country and his king
I think you assumed Floki is Thorkell's brother. He isn't. Thorkell's brother is Sigvaldi, Floki is just a colleague. Sigvaldi hasn't been on screen, I don't think
he hasnt and ill shush about the manga
"I don't see how this banquet explodes into chaos"
Oh... oh no...
👀
What's also interesting is the fact that they display Askeladd's death similarly to Thors'. Both times, the surroundings go completely white except for the spot in the middle where Thorfinn is clinging to the dying person. It's a nice touch that hints at Thorfinn's relationship to Askeladd.
It's the one moment Askeladd became a true warrior/Artorious
Makoto Yukimura (Vinland's mangaka) on Gigguk's interview : "I really wasnt sure how askeladd felt about thorfinn,Askeladd might not have cared in the slightest if thorfinn had died anytime anywhere. But, when he was on the verge of the end of his life, he made sure thorfinn didnt come with him. He pushed away Thorfinn thinking he shouldn't have to die with him and to my surprise, i hadn't thought about him like that right up until i was going to write this scene. There were Askeladd's own words,i cant think otherwise. Askeladd had actually cared for thorfinn to an extent and even i didnt know about that up until that scene."
ah, and now we've completed the trend... from Olaf, to Thors, to Ragnar, to Sweyn, to the man in the village they raided, to even himself... Askeladd has never met a father figure he couldn't kill.
in all seriousness though, this completes the picture that the narrative has been painting of Askeladd all along. he's the child of the violent Danish conqueror Olaf, and the enslaved Welsh former noblewoman Lydia, and this is the culmination of his heritage. because of the circumstances Olaf put him in, he gained the name, Askeladd. covered in ash. literally besmirched. he wore it all his life. but the name his mother truly gave him, was Lucius Artorius Castus, after their ancestor, the hero of legend, who was supposed to return someday and protect their homeland.
Askeladd had this in him all along. from the very beginning, when Askeladd raised his sword against Olaf in defense of his mother, he was acting in Artorius' stead. stepping into the role of the hero, when no hero would appear. someone must do it. a person... not a hero, not a god.
and yet... Askeladd could not accept that it was really him who was supposed to fill that role in earnest. even when a sword felt fitting in his hand, he attributed it to his Danish blood, and Olaf's violence. and, as a self fulfilling prophecy, Askeladd chose to reject any kind of honorable call to altruism, all his life. he had to be underhanded, in order to kill Olaf in the first place. he had to be brutal... he had to harm that man with the tools that Olaf himself had taught him in the first place. and with compromised morals like these... why pretend to be a more noble person than what Askeladd considers to be the truth? why even try?
and so, Askeladd became something he despised. came to resemble it so closely that he literally did the very same thing to Thorfinn, that Olaf did to him. presiding over him. teaching him brutality, in direct opposition to the desires of the beloved fallen parent that is actually dear to this child's heart... the one the conqueror killed.
and despite everything... when Askeladd first saw Thors, he knew. he understood that these were the qualities that Artorius should possess. this is the behavior that denotes his heroic archetype. if ever there was a man worth following, it was Thors. but by then, Askeladd had already given up. this bitter, jaded, cynical pragmatism that he lived by... it kept him from committing to the path that should've mattered to him most. he killed the best hero that the world could've given him, but cynicism was never going to change his true desires.
that's really the message here. rejecting hope doesn't change what a person really wants deep down. Askeladd's whole character is defined by trying to outfox everyone. trying to stay one step ahead of all the enemies he's made. trying to come out the winner, specifically by making sure that everyone he encounters loses. Askeladd is not excluded from this. everything he truly wants, deep down, is always out of reach if he isn't willing to try for it. he's just depriving himself. he couldn't admit that he wanted to try and give Wales its hero, until he'd backed himself into such a tight corner that there was no choice but to die for it. the one bitter move left available to him, and yet, it feels like he finally got to live without artifice for that brief moment at the end.
I think it's significant that Askeladd starts to display parallels to Thors as his final hour approaches. and this is something that I had really wanted to mention back during episode 20, but couldn't until now.
back in episode 2, we get a particular scene... Lief is at the pier, and he tells one of the girls from the village not to worry about Ari and the other boys. Thors is only taking as many as can sail the boat, and he's planning on sending them back home as soon as he can hire a crew to take him the rest of the way. then the girl asks "does that mean Thors is going to the battlefield alone?" and as she says this, we get a shot of Thors from behind, standing solitary in the snow.
I consider this scene to be a direct parallel to the scene in episode 20, just after Askeladd sends Atli away, telling him never to fight on a battlefield again. the shot of Askeladd after Atli leaves is framed very similarly, and for good reason. this is Askeladd sending able men away from his own personal battlefield, because he knows there's better out there for them. Askeladd will send them home, and he will go to the battlefield alone. and just like Thors' history as a warrior coming back to haunt him... Askeladd crafted the conditions for the situation he's in. karma has come for him, and he'll meet it as best he can.
and it's not just that. Thors died for the sake of his son, and his crew. he traded his life for their safety, and won the fight that mattered. by dying the way he does, Askeladd is going to set Canute up for success, to set Thorfinn free of his revenge quest, and to give Wales a better future, even if he'll never see it. it's altruism. it's the point where cynicism falls away, and everything that matters is all that is left.
and so, surrounded by enemies, Askeladd stands tall, makes an altruistic sacrifice, and leaves this world behind, while Thorfinn tries desperately to hold on. the way he's been living his life all this time... Thorfinn has only ever lost, over and over again. he only knows how to lose. his true fight is to step into a future, beyond what Thors or Askeladd could live to see, and find out what he may stand to gain, for the first time ever. this is the battle that a true warrior fights, and it'll be the hardest one.
Ah yes, Askeladd the Father-Slayer
@@bohdanpyzh2712 indeed, the dad killer himself.
@@kamuyking551 Askeladd vs Toji, who would win? 🤔
@@bohdanpyzh2712 idk Toji well enough (been dragging my feet on watching JJK season 2) but what's his dad kill count? has he, himself, died? if not, I think Askeladd may take this category, though I'm open to being wrong.😅
@@kamuyking551 oh I'm not going to spoil the count, then, you're going to have to see for yourself xD
I just love that Askeladd changed Thorfinn on his last moments. He putted Thorfinn in the right direction when he said "move forward already, don't be stuck in such a boring place"
also, can I just say how much every episode in season 1 is recontextualized by knowing everything about Askeladd the entire time? a rewatch is crazy. knowing what must've been going through Askeladd's head on the boat when he met Thors. knowing how he must've felt directly after acquiring Thorfinn as a tag along. that scene, where Thorfinn had a sword held over Askeladd's head as he slept, but chose not to kill him that way. the fact that Askeladd was actually awake, and didn't do anything to stop it... and it's still unclear what that meant, even if there's more depth to it now! was Askeladd willing to let Thorfinn kill him that way, if he chose to? was Askeladd disappointed when Thorfinn backed down from a dishonorable course of action like that? it kind of casts accidental judgement onto Askeladd's own decision to kill Olaf the way he did... but Thorfinn couldn't have known how much weight that would hold. or, maybe, Askeladd just wasn't worried about being threatened by a small child like that. who's to say?
when Askeladd raids villages, plunders civilian homes for loot, and kills everyone there... is this out of spite for those who live on soil that the people of Wales were cast off of? does Askeladd see the irony of the way he sets his feet squarely in Olaf's cruel footsteps? look at the way he talks about slaves... the way he says that anyone can be used, with the right approach. it's an extremely callous stance to take, given what he and his mother went through, but it's almost like he's still bitter about that. like, this is just the way the world is. he and his mother suffered, so why should anyone else be immune? and at the same time, he's also doing this to Thorfinn. Askeladd knows he's manipulating him. he's fully aware.
it almost seems like there's this push and pull... Askeladd has to be aware of how he's ruining Thorfinn, but it's almost like Thorfinn is proof that this kind of ruination can't be escaped. it's reinforcing the cynicism. even the son of Thors can't just choose to be better than this. or at least, that's what would be easiest to believe. but then Thorfinn still has this annoying honor system that he adheres to. somewhere, deep down, Thorfinn still has intuitive knowledge of right and wrong, and he still knows what separates a good man from a scumbag, even if his (lack of) upbringing makes it near impossible to choose the better path. Thorfinn is ruined because the things he values are so diametrically opposed to the type of person he's becoming. Askeladd is turning Thorfinn into something that Thorfinn knows he hates. and that reflects right back onto Askeladd, who is no different.
maybe this is part of why Askeladd jumps at the opportunity, when Canute turns up. Artorius is never going to appear, but Askeladd already figured that out a long time ago. a person has to do it, and Canute can become that person, if Askeladd goes all in. even back in episode 10, when Askeladd hears that Thorkell has kidnapped Canute, and he decides they're going to steal him... I think Askeladd saw that as his moment. this is after Thorfinn and Askeladd have that talk, on the hillside, about how Thorfinn will beat him eventually. Askeladd is getting older, and Thorfinn is getting stronger... Askeladd expects it someday. history turns over in much the same way, and Askeladd gives a bit of history about the fall of the Romans. and all of this culminates in Askeladd's observation, about the irony of dawn in the age of twilight.
when Bjorn asks him what his plan is for capturing Canute, Askeladd says "who knows. this is the age of twilight, Bjorn. let's go out with a bang."
Askeladd knew he was going to have to play his full hand here. this was for everything. they go to Wales, Askeladd meets with Gratianus, he makes his intentions known... Askeladd is even willing to cash in his ultimate long con. he's never liked the Danes, and he's willing to throw any one of them under the bus for the sake of his true goal. but that's Askeladd's entire problem. when you spend your whole life throwing people under the bus, you can't count on anything but their resentment. and while Thorfinn perfectly displays how reliable resentment can be... Askeladd also knows what he'd deserve, if anyone he's ever victimized truly got what was fair. Askeladd's defense against the morally fair demands of the slighted, was his cynicism. to drop that would be to admit that he has little grounds to demand the things he wants in the first place.
his whole plan for feeding his men during their long march was raiding and pillaging. he killed Ragnar just to get him out of the way of Canute's development, into the kind of person Askeladd wanted. for the sake of Wales, Askeladd dismantled the warmest parental relationship that Canute had. all Ragnar ever wanted was to raise Canute as his son, and ensure his safety and happiness. but Askeladd has already proven that when good men die and leave their sons to him, he can harden them into a formidable tool... and he knows how to use them.
and yet, what does Askeladd have in the end? his crew gets dismantled. Bjorn dies, only shortly after the two of them admit that they're friends. Canute hates him. Thorfinn hates him. and for the sake of his mother's homeland, a place that he values highly, but somewhere he's never lived, and never will... Askeladd is left with no other option but to sacrifice everything.
could different means have led to better ends? maybe... but where, along this road, could any of this have been diverted?
I think the hardest part about all of this, is that it's easy to see the better life that Askeladd could've led. if he'd been able to care about anyone properly... what could he have had?
I love the shot at the end, of the dagger falling from Thorfinn's hand. it directly calls back to Thors dropping his sword, all the way back in episode 1. that weapon encapsulates all the things that Thorfinn has done, since it was handed to him in the first place. and in an instant, it falls, and this chapter is over.
It's here guys! The End of the Prologue!
WE ARE HERE LADIES AND GENTLEMEN
The thing with Askeladd is that even after 24 episodes for us and YEARS for them he still respected Thors to no end.
He became the father figure he took away from Thorfinn, even tho a messed up one he still got to raise that kid in a way. All this because of a promise he made to a warrior.
That shows perfectly with Thorfinn's reaction, he wasn't just angry his "prey" got taken from him he was devastated because he lost Askeladd.
The guy lost his point of reference a second time.
And in a way, both deaths were his fault.
He got Thors killed by getting taken hostage by Bjorn and he got Askeladd killed by screaming at him, taking his attention away from the incoming danger.
Or at least that's how I interpreted it
The way I see it, Askeladd purposely let Canute stab him because :
1) Askeladd was feigning madness so if he fought back against Canute he would have to kill him to keep up the act
2) It was the perfect scenario for Canute to earn the respect of the people in the room
3) Canute was not an experienced fighter, whereas Askeladd could take on all the guards on his own
4) Thorfinn asked him "How could you let them stab you there, you idiot ?", so it seems like a mistake Askeladd wouldn't normally do
What's interesting about Askeladd's 'feigned' insanity here is that it is indeed an intentional act; but he is simultaneously very truly that crazy; he felt every moment of that in his bones. He chose to let himself go in that moment.
The past 6 days have felt like an eternity, stoked for this one.
When the King asked him to choose between "Wales and Canute", Askeladd just chose both
It may seem like he did what he did losing his mind over the king insulting his mother, but Askeladd actually did this to kill two bird with one stone. Paving the way for Canute to become the king and thereby saving Wales. Its the only thing he could do to save both, by sacrificing himself. So its not just Canute taking advantage of this situation. Askeladd wanted Canute to do it.
I love how Thorfinn catches Askeladd as he falls. He cares in spite of himself; I think Thorfinn is realizing what a father figure Askeladd was to him, in this scene.
artorious/king arthur the legendary hero. parallel that with...
askeladd the nameless child of a sex slave born of rape and grew up to be a scoundrel who history will never remember. he nevertheless became the hero his motherland needed sacrificing his life and honor, as well as never betraying his liege
a deeply calculating man, but also quick on his feet. he can use his emotions to provide inspiration to a dilemma instead of clouding his judgement
this episode will always resonate, the music, the voice acting, and script really puts you into that singular moment especially when Askeladd ask him "how he's gonna live his life"
Yeah Askeladd pulled out with his Roman drip to politic area, to remind himself that he is not a Viking
ONE OF THE GREATEST EPISODES OF ALL TIME, Askeladd single handedly gave both Thorfinn & Canute their new meaning for life while getting pressed & using his anger to create a perfect opportunity, Easily one of the most well written Antagonists for a reason -
From here on he'll not be present in the story but his presence will be in the Next Season & I CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO START SEASON 2 NOW (specifically cuz it got my favourite Arc from the Entire story) YOU'RE GONNA HAVE A GREAT TIME & SOME OF THE INTERACTIONS THERE WILL BE INSANE 🛐
i like to think of this moment as askeladd's ultimate catharsis, because aside from his overarching plan; like a childish fantasy about beating a bully, he gets to cut off the head of the people he's so despised, and with the crown on his own head for a change, slaughter its retainers
it feels more like an absurd dream come true than an act to me
Thorfinn in the end loved Askeladd in a twisted way. His whole life has revolved around the man for over a decade. His last outburst about duelling and screaming was a child's temper tantrum. His dagger slipping from his hand is such a beautiful moment, that dagger represents his childhood and his sins.
not anything close to love, Askeladd was just an incredibly important person in his life being his ultimate end goal.
I thought the dagger represents his quest for revenge. It was his fathers dagger, the dagger with which he swore to kill Askeladd to avenge his father. He clung to that dagger like he clung to his revenge. But now it is finally time to let go.
@@loenk2651 I thought of it almost like the apple of Eden. When he touched it he was introduced to violence and evil. Ever since he was handed the dagger he has known nothing but suffering and the cruelty of others and his own depravity.
I think your idea is more the actual intention. I just think it fits well.
my own thoughts on this are that Thorfinn looked to Askeladd as his waypoint. Askeladd and his men were the original people who made Thorfinn feel powerless. and for Thorfinn, that feeling of powerlessness was something detestable that he sought to erase.
Thorfinn states that he wants to kill Askeladd, but what Thorfinn really wants is one half communication, and one half validation. he wants to hurt Askeladd enough to communicate how much he is hurting, and he wants Askeladd to validate his efforts by showing that he's stronger than he used to be. that's why Askeladd makes him angrier and angrier, whenever he acts all flippant and nonchalant. because Thorfinn is still failing to communicate the amount of pain he's in. and that's why Thorfinn constantly bends over backwards to fulfill everything Askeladd asks of him. sure, it's the conditions for the duel, but Thorfinn could just attack Askeladd, and Askeladd would defend himself. as long as Askeladd isn't surprised, and is able bodied at the time, he doesn't have to be willing. but no... Thorfinn does everything Askeladd says. because he's constantly trying to prove that he's good enough. he's constantly checking himself against Askeladd, to see if he measures up.
Thorfinn's relationship to Askeladd is one where he's constantly seeking. some form of response... a dent in Askeladd's armor, or the satisfaction of catching him off guard... any reaction. and emotionally, I think Thorfinn really doesn't know how to exist without that. he uses Askeladd as a place to put all of his anger and grief, but without the motivation of his pursuit, Thorfinn has never learned what to do with himself. I think that's why he tries to pivot all of that onto Canute for a moment. Thorfinn literally doesn't know how to do anything else.
Thorfinn really lost two Fathers in one season.
o7 Askeladd
Good thing he still has one more
Double the development
😭
This is what happens when you insult Askeladd's mother. Also that ending with the knife falling means a lot more now that i have seen season 2.
This was never Thorfinn's story. This was Askeladd's story. The End Of The Prologue. Season Two gets on with Thorfinn's story.
I mentioned last episode that Askeladd was an invention of the author, but I forgot to mention that he was apparently based on a Welsh trickster deity, Olaf The Peacock. Just a bit of trivia.
I have really enjoyed your reactions these past weeks, and am looking forward to season two -- jokingly referred to as "Farmland Saga". It is about farmland, but oh so much more.
that part about a person changing like a flip of a switch, VERY true, theres literally been alcoholics, going to there therapists, for two or three weeks, no change, and then suddenly theyre like, yeah i quit. this is definitely a thing.
(the therapist i heard this from was dr k, from healthygamergg btw)
Floki is not Thorkell's brother thats Sigvaldi the chief of the jomsvikings, Floki is the commander who is yes decently strong but not on Thorfinns, askeladd and especially Thorkell's level
23:05 This moment is my favorite of Season one. This conversation between them, the only true one I think they've ever had. Thorfinn, just by catching him gently the way he does, proves to me that he saw something in Askeladd beyond his desire for vengeance. I believe that, truthfully, Thorfinn threw the duel subconsciously in Episode 22 because he's actually *afraid* of killing the target of his revenge. He didn't want to lose Askeladd, not truly, and so he allowed himself to be baited with rage. I think Askeladd may have seen this too, and it plays a part in how angry and bitter he was in his dismissal of Thorfinn afterwards. I think Askeladd saying, "We are enemies, after all, right?" is a slight hint that he was aware of it. Especially given that Thorfinn had essentially said that he would help him escape.
And then, he tells Thorfinn to live the life meant for him: the life of a true warrior. You cannot convince me that this man felt nothing for Thorfinn up to this point.
Anyway, those are my thoughts and interpretations.
Also, yes: Canute is an amazing person. The dynamic and relationship between Thorfinn and the prince isn't over. I can't wait for you to see what next season has in store for them!
Amazing reaction. Thank you for your understanding in reacting to these at the same time. I do believe they go better together.
I'm greatly enjoying this, and I hope you'll keep it up! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
this part 23:53 is what kills me... Thorfinn trying to treat him the exact same way he usually would, like this isn't even real. and just sort of swearing as Askeladd bleeds, like it's an annoyance. Thorfinn is basically trying to keep up the same hard outer shell that Askeladd always put on all the time, only for Askeladd to drop the act entirely. he's been moving toward it for a while now... but it took Askeladd his whole life to reach that point, in his final moments, and he never taught Thorfinn anything about being genuine.
I feel like Thorfinn never wanted Askeladd to die, the entire time. I think he primarily wanted him to hurt. every time Thorfinn was frustrated and angry, his first instinct was always to throw it all at Askeladd, as viciously as he could, and Askeladd would take it every time. often too easily... that was the source of a lot of Thorfinn's frustration in the first place. but only because it didn't feel like they were both hurting equally.
Thorfinn wants to communicate his pain, and be validated. you can't do any of that with a dead man. but he's also unapologetically harsh to Askeladd, because Askeladd has always been unapologetically harsh to him. when Askeladd was kicking the shit out of Thorfinn, I think part of it was because he and Thorfinn reflect each other. they're all too alike, in ways that they each hate to see, and neither of them knows how to fix it.
but that's just what Thorfinn might have the opportunity to do, now that Askeladd is gone... and Askeladd knows it.
What Askeladd did was the best solution that he gad at hand to save both Canute and Wales.
He never went mad, he executed his last plan then pretended to be crazy so that Canute could come up as the hero...
Also, by having Thorfin kill him, he would also have been seen as his enemy, but that didn't go well.
I hope you enjoyed watching this 24 episode-long prologue to the real story to come
That dagger falling scene is like actual magic. First time watching this episode my jaw just dropped at that moment and I was just in disbelief for several minutes processing that ending
The only reason people told you to watch them back to back was because they hoped to see your reaction to both of them back to back, haha. Good on you for sticking to the upload schedule.
We got it back to back on patreon. Though he just fucked up and posted 24 first and it stuck around lol
8:00 Thorkells brother is Sigvaldi. He's not Floki
25:55 You got so emotional you even sound funny😂
I glad you liked it. Absolute one of my best, but the best, finales and prologues that I have ever watched. Now is where the real story starts Luke, I hope you enjoy it.
the ending to season one alone just that dagger dropping makes this one of the best animes out there the music everything nothing ive ever seen comes close to this :) look forward to seeing season 2 with you and what youll think of it :)
WE'RE GOING TO VINLAND WITH THIS ONE BROTHERS! 🗣️‼️‼️
yessiiirr
Let's gooo
In his final moments,
Askeladd did what he's good at, Slaying Fathers
Toplist:
-Olaf (he's own Father)
-Thors (Thorfinn's Father)
-Sweyn (Canute's Father)
Happy Advance Fathers Day Luke😅
Vinland Saga is like night and day, season 1 is his night (his hatred and emptiness arc) and season 2 is his day. Can't wait for your reaction to season 2.
7:40 your predictions really scare me sometimes
So real
Riiiiighhhht
Oh shhhhhhhhiiittt I didn't even realise when I was watching that I said this 😂😂
Strap in for season 2 boys because it is just as good!! :D
watching this episode again let me remember how great this episode is, the portrayals is just incredible.
Most people can't flip that switch Luke, in particular a lot of the characters in the shows people complain about the character is going through something more than just a rebellious phrase.
I think Canute works simply because the change he went through was from a catalyst that literally changed his world and he was in a "do or die" situation.
And to be quite frank I think the change Canute went through sounds much more drastic than the kind you describe for yourself.
I also think Thorfinn making the change would be harder than you because Thorfinn's behavior is based off a very critical moment from his young life.
10:00 I totally agree with you. My dad for instance, when he was 40 something the doctors told him his lungs were started to be in terrible state and if he keeps smoking, he'll not survive. My dad bought the things to help him stopping smoking. He was so disgustzd by these things + couldn't sleep during the night because of dhat the doctor told him that he threw absolutely all his cigarettes, all his helping stuff for it and he never ever smoked again since.
I loved this ride so so damn much. Boy was this accurate at 7:42 😂 You were right on. It was a brilliant move as a strategist/tactician/mastermind, saving both Canute and Wales, but at the cost of his life. That moment where Thorkell held Canute upright, preventing him from having a breakdown over killing his first man, always makes me tear up. I love Canute and Thorkell so much. He may look like he's got brawns for brains, but in some scenes like this, we see how he IS really sensible, intelligent, mature despite being the war-loving big kid he is, and yet down to earth.
And, agreed, despite their enmity, I feel like Thorfinn and Askeladd had a bit of a father-son dynamic, not one with love, but where Askeladd saw himself in Thorfinn and wanted to teach him things he wished he knew at his age, wanted to free Thorfinn from his revenge quest by offering his life, and wanted him to live beyond this, to experience life beyond what Thors did, to be a ''true warrior'' but not in the violence, murderer way. More like a philosophical warrior, like a warrior at heart and mind, valuing life instead of killing, like Thors. I feel like Thorfinn also put him on a pedestal as a skilled fighter, and maybe even looked up to him in weird ways. Not saying Askeladd was a replacement Thors in any way, not at all, just that he was the only father-figure Thorfinn could have while growing up with his whole attention on him, dedicated to learning his behaviours to win against him.
Also chuckled at the intro where you mentioned there'd be no violence or ''red wedding'' moments at this banquet😂 This was so fun to watch. Excited for season 2!
31:45 In case you're confused, just remember that this dude is the best dude who has ever duded.
What did you mean about Thorkell and his brother? Noone in that room was his sibling. Thorkell is the brother of the leader of Jomsvikings, who hasn't been shown in the anime yet.
Now peak writing is coming, prepare for Farmland saga!!!
The three characters are Thorfinn's true companions, prepare for peak character development!
It's happening 😭
The good part of Vinland Saga is now over. The GREAT part of Vinland Saga is about to begin!
SUCH A GOOD SEASON, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE REACTION VIDEOS. THEY WERE THE BEST
Congratulations, Luke. You have concluded peak fiction. We now welcome you to Cinema 2, aka the second season of Peakland Saga
Congratulations on making though the prologue 👏👏👏
Forever a 10 out of 10 episode for me
Thors's dagger falling at the end was a bit of a metaphor. It captured Thorfinn's entire journey up to this point, meaning that his current journey ended here. All events brought him here, where he lost his only meaning in life, but... The end of one path sometimes means the beginning of another :)
now we about to witness best character development in the entire fictions.
The quick early episode recap is definitely something Vinland does at times.
But it isn't so much to recap what happened, but more so to build up a specific atmosphere before proceeding.
I am one of those people who changed in an instant. I was a very stressed out and apathetic person, but as soon as i saw my son when he was born, i knew i needed to be better. It was literally like in a show where there were flashbacks on who i was and what i needed to do. It really does happen.
Luke do you now see why we said to watch 23 and 24 together?
Imagine watching a play and just as you are about to enter the climax, they take a 7 day break (aka ep 23). It completely kills all the tension built up so far and lessens the overall experience.
Doesn't always need to be a cliffhanger for it to be a bad time to end an episode.
Vinland Saga is ultimately a story about growing, not physically but mentally and emotionally. S1 is amazing but is more enjoyable for 'children', where as S2 is a story directed right at the heart of adults who can truly understand it. You're in for a god damn ride.
I hope you enjoyed Vinland Saga, The Prequel to Peakland Saga
The fact that this episode recently got rated as the best in all animw
14:37 one minut later: "what happened?!?"
whell, listen to you from the past 7:29
34:01
We are not mid way through Vinland Saga, in terms of the larger narrative, this was chapter 1, well, as the name of the episode suggests, this was the prologue, chapter 0
Like, all of this was just backstory xD
💀 I was actually watching something else and instantaneously clicked on it because I really wanted to see that reaction, I still have to watch it all 😅😂 but I'm pretty sure you loved it and want to watch next season 😁
Askeladd was the best character ever, best villain and actually the main character of this prologue 😂 yep it was just the prologue, it's crazy right. There's a lot to come, and you will feel a lot of emotions when you see it all.. it's going to hit really hard, because reading the manga is getting me anxious 😳
25:40 Did you notice? This background of white space and black shadows. Yes, the same background was used when Thors died in episode 4. This suggests that Askeladd was not only a hated enemy to Thorfinn, but also a second father. Also, at the end, Thorfinn lets go of his father's knife, which reflects his life so far. In other words, he had to let go of his only revenge and everything in his life so far. Anyway, the prologue is over. Season 2 is even more amazing. I look forward to the day when I witness the wonderful ending.
just a heads-up, season 2 is VASTLY different, you gotta give it a few episodes to see the direction the story and characters take, but just know that PEAKLAND SAGA is coming. Season 1 is an amazing anime, season 2 is ... art.
What you said about change, i don't believe it's instant, i believe that all your life can be interpreted as a puzzle, you collect the pieces but you don't always know what it's going to be but you start to form a picture in your head, and there is a crucial moment when you find that one piece that falls in place and makes the whole picture make sense, i hope what i say it's somewhat coherent 😅 All your past experiences put you on a path, and when you realize it, you can decide to keep going on that path or to step on a different path, and this is what we're going to see in season 2, beautiful 🙂
We slowly dropping the dagger with this one 🗣🗣🗣🗣🗣🗣🗣🗣
This IS the best rated Anime Episode ever❤
End of the Prologue Lets gooo
actually yes... this was a prologue and thorfinn's real journey begins now
Welcome to Peakland Saga! The story starts now!
Poor Thorfinn has no enemies alive anymore ;).
hehehehe
Have fun with Farmland Saga, this is where i bow out as i've not gotten to season 2 yet
glad you loved the shit out of this anime :3
You missed out, season 2 was awesome.
I so damn hyped to see you watch the season 2.
And with this you have finished the prologue to this story👏
Now peak fiction awaits🙏
最高の立ち去り方。
The end scene is introducing season 4, 3 & 2
let's go for season 2 may fav season so far ❤
he did it
See y'all in season 2🫡
10:33 Hey, same kind of shift as me! Though it was the idea that my ability to go to college would be gone if I messed up with my grades and stuff in high school. I was told it enough, and changed from being an angry, reckless but somehow managing student, to a student who was focused and started getting perfect grades, and still strive to get that. What changed was being placed in a lower class in one subject, since I was a few days late to change my grade to actually meet the next level of that subject. I turned in too few assignments on time and paid the price after getting away with slacking, and it was just one change.
Sorry for continuing a slight rant, but another change was wanting to be different from a bad group of my family, so I shifted my focus over a very short time, growing more aware of what I did and said. Kinda weird, changing so much in almost an instant, but sometimes pretty beneficial.
Looking forward to season 2 reactions ❤
And that was the day Thorfinn lost his second father
I AGREE WITH YOU ABOUT CHANGE!!!! I'll use Dostoevsky as an example. Bro was sentenced to death by shooting. Last moment, some dude came, canceled it, and he was sent to a camp for labor. Way he viewed life changed. He wrote a letter in his cell to his brother:
“When I look back on my past and think how much time I wasted on nothing, how much time has been lost in futilities, errors, laziness, incapacity to live; how little I appreciated it, how many times I sinned against my heart and soul - then my heart bleeds. Life is a gift, life is happiness, every minute can be an eternity of happiness!
I am neither downhearted nor discouraged. Life is everywhere, life is in ourselves, not in the exterior. I shall have human beings around me, and to be a man among men and to remain one always, not to lose heart and not to give in no matter what occurs - that is what life is, that is its task, I have become aware of this. This idea has entered into my life and blood.”
The best part about this episode is actually.. this is just the Epilogue!
I can't wait what season 2 has to offer to us. Maybe, we will finally getting to see a real "Vinland Saga" 🤔
An epilogue is at the end of the story, this is a prologue. But yes s2 is so good I'm really looking forward to seeing his reactions!
7:59 Thorkell's brother? Sigvaldi is in Jomborg, not in England. Who you thought about?
18:03 Correct, he is wearing toga.
This is the end of Canute, Askeladd, Thorkell and Thorfinn conquering whole world. It was my dream. My perfect epic.
He probably thinks Floki is the chief of the Jomsvikings and therefore Thorkell's brother. But Floki is only a commander, as you said Sigvaldi the actual chief is in Jomsborg.
Now you will witness the true character development of thorfinn... let's go season 2 tomorrow. 😃😃
You're gonna love season 2!
Women climbing the hill is not in the next season she will be there in the 3 rd season
end of the prologue
BRING ON SEASON 2
Now he’s prepared to discover PEAKLAND SAGA
This story is incredible, what is to come is indescreptible. Actually if it can be described, but I don't want to make spoilers of the emotions it will transmit to you.
That's how good the story is😅
Thor's said " a true warrior doesn't need swords "
That's what askellad want thorfin to become "a true warrior "
And Season 2 is even better baby!
Great! Now that we're done with the prologue the story can actually start. 😂 Unironically though I much prefer season 2 (my personal favorite season of any anime) and I can't wait to see you react to it!