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The Vikings in Vinland Saga accomplish many amazing feats, but the backstories of these guys are arguably more incredible. In fact, people may be surprised not only by the liberties taken, but by how faithful these versions are in certain areas.
7 Thorfinn
The main protagonist of the series, Thorfinn starts as a young boy who wants to be a great hero like his father. After witnessing his dad’s death, the kid casts himself into a life of hardship and survival. He trains as one of Askeladd’s crew, hoping to attain the skills needed to finally achieve vengeance. This is where he fundamentally differs from the source.
The character is based on Thorfinn Karlsefni. He was less a warrior and more an explorer. He follows Leif Erikson’s route to Vinland–or North America–to establish a Viking settlement. However, Leif is a presence in the show and does help Thorfinn in any way he can, so the little killer may turn pioneer, after all.
6 Askeladd
This is the roguish mercenary who kills Thorfinn’s father. In following him, the young Viking positions Askeladd as an unorthodox teacher. There are plenty of worse characters to choose for this role. Askeladd is a charismatic leader who enjoys a good fight and takes on virtually any challenge if it pays.
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That personality likely comes from his historic counterpart: Olaf the Peacock. This merchant was famous for his pride and flamboyant decorations. However, the series eventually reveals another inspiration for Askeladd.
It turns out his mother named him “Lucius Artorius Castus.” This was the Roman officer thought to have inspired King Arthur. Sadly, the name didn’t stick, and Askeladd didn’t become the king of England.
5 Thorkell
Thorfinn’s grand-uncle is known for his mighty stature and battle prowess. Due to his love of combat, he serves as the right hand of Prince Canute, aiding him in his quest to become the ruler of the Danes. That’s fairly accurate to the historical sagas.
The character comes from Thorkell the Tall, a Jomsviking lord who raised Canute at his court. They actually fought on opposite sides when the young prince invaded England with his father, Sweyn Forkbeard. They later joined forces, though, and made a tough team.
4 Canute
The anime’s rendition of Canute is an effeminate prince who grows into a confident leader. He wants to create a great kingdom in homage to God. That’s why he takes command of the Viking army, albeit through unscrupulous means. Nevertheless, it effectively makes him the ruler of England, which is also what his namesake is famous for.
Canute was a revolutionary Viking who united various factions. Through careful strategy and intense determination, he claimed dominion over England, Denmark, and Norway in a vast North Sea Empire. In Vinland Saga, he seems on the path to doing just that.
3 Leif
A prominent supporting player, this family friend strives to help Thorfinn in his journey. He’s a quirky old traveler who boasts of his voyage to Vinland. That’s definitely worth boasting about, as it’s what he’s known for.
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The anime derives this character from Leif Erikson. He was the Viking sailor who first charted a course to Vinland. Experts believe that this was actually North America. Such a momentous achievement would make Leif the first European in the New World.
2 Gudrid
An avid listener of Leif’s stories was Gudrid. Dreaming of sailing, she eventually joins the explorer, where she meets Thorfinn. Romance blossoms, and she marries the Viking hero. Those versed in history know the significance of this powerful paring.
Gudrid accompanied Thorfinn in his quest to Vinland. Here, they had a son named Snorri, the first European child in the Americas. Vinland Saga deviates in this respect, with their child being an adopted son named Karali. He’s the lone survivor of a village massacre. While that’s tragic, it doesn’t have the same geographical significance.
1 Sweyn Forkbeard
Canute’s father is villainous even by Viking standards. He’s a ruthless ruler who’s conquered most of England. He’s willing to sacrifice anything for his ambition, including his own son. His heir disgusts him with his sentiment and failure to understand his station. That’s a far cry from history.
Sweyn and Canute actually worked together to invade England. The former even left his son in charge at several points.
His relationship with his own father, Harald Bluetooth, was more strained. It got to the point where Sweyn revolted against him. Additional reports describe him still having to fight his way to the top after alienating Harald’s friends. Either way, Forkbeard asserted himself as a calculating leader who won many battles and territories, laying vital groundwork which his son later expanded on.
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