Series & First Appearance
Thorkell appears in the anime and manga Vinland Saga, created by Makoto Yukimura. He makes his debut in the manga in Chapter 32 and later in the anime in Episode 7, which first aired in 2019. The series is produced by Wit Studio and MAPPA for the anime adaptation.
Profile at a Glance
Thorkell is a formidable Jomsviking general, seemingly in his late 30s or early 40s, embodying the ideal of a warrior with a relentless love for combat. He initially serves the Danish army before switching allegiance to become a mercenary for the English, believing this would provide him with more significant challenges. His signature weaponry includes a pair of axes, and he is known for his immense physical strength and agility in battle.
Personality & Motivations
Thorkell is characterized by his boisterous and carefree nature, often viewed as jovial and larger-than-life. He revels in the chaos of battle and seeks out worthy foes, including the protagonist Thorfinn, with whom he shares a mutual respect. His motivations are primarily driven by a desire for thrilling combat rather than traditional glory or conquest. Thorkell’s quirk for laughter in the face of danger and his boisterous taunts during battle showcase his unique perspective on warfare, emphasizing excitement over honor.
Abilities / Powers
Thorkell possesses extraordinary physical abilities, underscored by tremendous strength that allows him to wield heavy weapons and perform feats like hurling a spear with such force that it can pierce through multiple targets at once. He is adept in close-quarters combat, skilled at using his axes in conjunction with his brute strength. Though largely dominant in fights, he does exhibit some vulnerabilities, such as sustained injuries during his duels with Thorfinn, where he loses two fingers in their first encounter and an eye in their second. This highlights both his resilience and the evolving nature of combat in Vinland Saga.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Vinland Saga, Thorkell’s character arc is marked by significant moments that showcase his evolution. One turning point is his decision to fight against his fellow Vikings; his defection from the Danish army illustrates his desire for true challenge rather than mere loyalty. His dynamic interactions with Prince Canute also play a crucial role; Thorkell respects Canute as he matures, ultimately choosing to support him in his quest for the Danish throne. The numerous battles he engages in, particularly against Thorfinn, not only display his martial prowess but also force him to confront his own motivations and values.
Notable Relationships
Thorkell shares a complex network of relationships that enrich his character. Notably, he holds immense respect for Thors, Thorfinn’s father, viewing him as a formidable warrior and an honorable man. This respect extends to Thorfinn, whom he admires despite their rival status. His interactions with Prince Canute are also pivotal; witnessing Canute’s growth pushes Thorkell to reevaluate his own stance on leadership and warfare. Additionally, his camaraderie with fellow warriors of the Jomsvikings adds to his depth as a character who thrives on loyalty and friendship among warriors.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Thorkell’s iconic moments occurs during his first duel with Thorfinn, where he dominates the young warrior and acknowledges his potential, saying, "A warrior should always challenge themselves." This moment not only highlights Thorkell’s role as a mentor-like figure but also sets the stage for Thorfinn’s growth as a fighter. Another impactful scene is his laughter amidst intense battle, emphasizing his unique perspective on combat: “The battlefield is the only place I feel truly alive!” These lines resonate with fans and emphasize Thorkell’s boisterous personality.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Thorkell is inspired by the historical figure Thorkell the Tall, a prominent Jomsviking lord noted for his strategic prowess and mentorship, particularly to figures like Canute. As of recent popularity polls, Thorkell has garnered around 2,700 member favorites, reflecting his significant impact on the series. In the anime, Thorkell is voiced in Japanese by Kenichirou Matsuda, while his English voice is provided by Matthew Mercer. His character design showcases his imposing size, distinct facial features, and battle-worn attire, enhancing his image as a legendary warrior.
Thorkell’s journey throughout Vinland Saga not only captivates fans with his dramatic combat scenes but also invites deeper reflections on honor, challenge, and the essence of warfare in a brutal world.
