In the episode 11 of Vinland Saga Askeladde’s man plan to capture Prince Canute without anyone else’s assistance. It seemed easy but 400 are already on their way to release the prince from Thorkell’s capture. It would have been better if Askeladde had joined them in that cause for the sake of realm and to set the prince free but on the contrary he set the forest on fire. We couldn’t have expected more since he is the man who called stealing the whole treasure horde, half just because of he got no reputation.
A lot of things had to be spoken before the forest set on fire and the outcomes of it. Most part of the episode was about the discussion on Norse belief among Thorkell and his men. Questioning which is better Jesus or Odin. It makes viewers wonder and think about an interesting question which is not just about choosing the ‘better’ but what is related to the characters. Norse men make fun of converting and its popularity and how it makes a submissive woman. While the Christians seemed quite uninfluenced excluding the priest who worships the creator of alcohol.
Once again Vinland Saga conveys a strong message about preferences during war. The religious people stick to their belief. Whereas those who enjoys war can change their religion without giving it a second thought, according to their personal amusement. Personal preferences matters the most to them. Askeladde is one of them, who did not want to get others help even if it cost him the thing he want.
Thorkell proves the same in this episode. He is obsessed with the king and eagerly awaits to face him. For him it’s not about achieving the actual goals of war but to get indulge in the battle because he wants to. Thorfinn witnessed the same side of Thorkell when he was there to save the prince. Thorkell was not bothered and released the prince just for the sake of ‘game’. But Thorkell did something unexpected for Thorfinn. He impacted Thorfinn by acknowledging how powerful Thors is. According to him the fallen warrior is respectful. The way he shows respect toward Thora, it can be hard to dislike him.
However, no matter what Thorkell must be stopped. Let’s see how far will Thorfinn go in the journey of vengeance. Will he be able to stop Thorkell and honor his father? Hopefully Thorfinn will achieve his goal.
