10 Best Vinland Saga Quotes That Got Fans Rethinking Their Lives

Vinland Saga is frequently recognized as one of the trio of Seinen standouts (though Kingdom has undeniably outsold it), and rightfully so. This series delves deeply into introspection, and as Thorfinn’s view of life expands through his encounters with others, ours does too. Remarkably, this is unusual for an anime set in the Viking age with a main character predominantly driven by revenge. Contrary to initial assumptions, Vinland Saga is not essentially about violence or revenge. Instead, it narrates the impact of revenge on an individual and the journey towards healing.

The show Vinland Saga stands out in its approach as it refrains from glorifying war, even though it revolves around the belligerent Vikings and draws inspiration from actual accounts of conflict and deceit. Rather, Makoto Yukimura presents a thoughtful viewpoint on the complexities of human suffering and how it fuels violence. Vinland Saga’s poignant quotes delve into the human experience, emphasizing the significance of self-control in order to become a genuine warrior who triumphs without resorting to violence.

You Have No Enemies (Vinland Saga Episode 2)

In a scene where a young boy named Thorfinn explores his father’s weaponry room and picks up an old sword, Thors attempts to instill the weighty significance of such a tool in his son. Emphasizing that a sword is primarily used for taking lives, Thors queries who it is that Thorfinn plans on ending. Still grappling with the profound implications of his father’s message, young Thorfinn hesitantly answers, “Enemies.” This interaction gives rise to a thought-provoking statement.

Everyone lacks adversaries, a fact that applies universally. It’s uncommon for anyone across the globe to deserve harm.” This version seeks to convey the original message while using more natural and easy-to-understand language.

In many anime shows, weapons like guns and swords are often portrayed in a glamorous light. However, the realistic approach taken by “Vinland Saga” at its onset is a welcome change of pace. This series challenges the notion of an enemy, suggesting that despite our differences, we’re all just humans striving to survive. Remarkably, this idea is pivotal throughout the series, though it takes years for Thorfinn to fully grasp the meaning behind his father’s words.

Why Do We Have to Fear Death? (Vinland Saga Episode 27)

Throughout the first season of “Vinland Saga,” Thorfinn’s actions are fueled by a single, burning desire: seeking revenge. However, when the man who murdered his father is himself killed by someone else in front of him, Thorfinn finds his motivation for vengeance fading away. The second season finds him as a slave on a farm, where he eventually lands in hot water with the farm’s guards, one of whom even threatens his life.

What’s the reason to be afraid of death? Is it that we’re living simply because we don’t wish to die? I can’t find any positive aspects in existing, neither have I experienced anything beneficial during my lifetime.

Regardless of the repeated blows Fox delivers, Thorfinn remains unmoved, not even twitching. However, his cold-hearted remarks conceal a profound truth. In the absence of purpose for existence, one might continue to live solely due to the terror of dying.

I Shall Bend the Waves Themselves (Vinland Saga Episode 46)

In the second season of the series, Thorfinn reconnects with King Canute. However, instead of the noble leader from before, Canute now seems consumed by a thirst for power and appears to have forgotten his original ideals. Despite boasting about his military prowess, Canute delivers a speech that makes viewers think twice. In an unexpected turn, he subtly reminds everyone how minuscule his power is compared to the divine might of God.

Look! Utilizing my strength, I’ll make the very waves obey my wish. By the decree of the mighty King Canute: Calm down, seas. You both saw it, didn’t you? This is the extent of my power – insufficient to even pause the slightest ripple in the water.

A Peaceful Place Beyond the King’s Reach (Vinland Saga Episode 47)

When Canute endeavors to construct a utopia for humanity’s sinners, Thorfinn recognizes that even in such a utopia, some will still suffer. However, unlike many other anime protagonists, Thorfinn believes that Canute’s utopia will benefit more people than it will hurt. Instead, he suggests an alternative approach to protect the oppressed minority.

I’ll establish a tranquil sanctuary, hidden from the king’s grasp, utilizing unique strategies unlike yours. This will be an alternative haven for those unable to thrive in your world. It serves as a refuge not only for them but also for us.

The final portion of this quote is quite intriguing and highlights the similarities between Canute and Thorfinn. Instead of being allies or adversaries, they serve as mirrors for each other, operating beyond each other’s domains of control. However, they both share a common goal in the end.

You’re a Beautiful Man (Vinland Saga Episode 47)

When Thorfinn advises Canute against taking Ketil’s farm, he does so without resorting to force or menacing words. Instead, he simply requests Canute not to do it and is prepared to depart quietly if Canute chooses otherwise. Canute respects Thorfinn’s character greatly, finding it remarkable that someone who grew up among brutal Vikings in the midst of endless wars could develop such a peaceful demeanor.

“So the Vikings are capable of producing someone like you. You’re a beautiful man.”

This quote gains added weight given that upon their reunion, Canute initially perceives Thorfinn as a danger. He even contemplates taking his life. However, Thorfinn dramatically alters Canute’s viewpoint by opting for non-violence, demonstrating his prowess as a warrior without resorting to conflict.

Everyone Is a Slave (Vinland Saga Episode 8)

In the majority of Vinland Saga’s first season, Askeladd is a character shrouded in mystery. He demonstrates a cold intelligence and harbors an unkind side, yet he possesses more kindness than most perceive. A clear illustration of this complexity can be seen when Gorm brutally assaults the slave girl Hordaland; it is then that Askeladd reveals his hidden compassion.

A person controlled by wealth may believe they rule others they’ve purchased with their riches, unaware that they too are enslaved – in this case, to money. The truth is, we’re all subject to something’s influence.

This speech becomes even more impactful because it resonates with not just Gorm, but other characters from the Vinland Saga as well. Immediately after Askeladd speaks these words, the camera shifts focus to Thorfinn, suggesting that he too is trapped by his thirst for vengeance. Similarly, Askeladd finds himself enslaved by his ancestral nation’s legacy.

It’s Better To Be Empty (Vinland Saga Episode 32)

In the heart of Vinland Saga, I found myself pouring out my soul to Einar about the void I felt due to my lack of vengeance. It seemed as if the wind carried my words further than intended, for old man Sverkel, Ketil’s father, overheard us.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Sverkel taught us a skill that would sustain our lives: catching fish with a net. In the midst of this simple lesson, he shared profound wisdom that left me spellbound. He subtly framed emptiness as a catalyst for growth, providing me with a glimmer of hope amidst my despair.

When you’re devoid of anything specific, you have the capacity to accommodate anything new. In truth, being empty is advantageous if your goal is to undergo a fresh start or transformation.

A True Warrior Doesn’t Need a Sword (Vinland Saga Episode 4)

Following Thors’ victory over Askeladd in their duel, Askeladd praised his swordsmanship. However, rather than feeling proud, Thors appeared saddened. He perceived his inability to fight effectively without a sword as a weakness rather than a strength, reflecting the core theme of Vinland Saga, which posits that genuine power doesn’t lie in the ability to fight but in the capacity to prevail without resorting to violence.

Since I’m still not a master, I have to depend on a sword like this. A real warrior can do without one.

Canute’s Awakening Speech (Vinland Saga Episode 18)

In the opening of Vinland Saga‘s first season, Prince Canute initially appears meek and fearful. However, following the demise of his guardian Ragnar, Canute ponders the essence of love and arrives at the realization that genuine love transcends prejudice. Later, he encounters a frenzied Bjorn, poised to attack him, but when Canute bravely confronts him, the much larger warrior unexpectedly shows fear and retreats. Canute manages to pacify the berserker with nothing more than his soothing words and a tender embrace, demonstrating the potency of his belief in love for all.

Poor, battle-scarred soul. Distant indeed from the embrace of love, for you were cast out from a place of bliss. Can’t there be another means to alleviate the torment of your punishment rather than meeting an untimely end?

This discourse symbolizes King Canute’s transformation into a genuine warrior, one who doesn’t rely on a sword to triumph in battles. However, he strays from this ethos at times, only to rediscover it when he recognizes similar qualities in Thorfinn.

A Place Called Vinland (Vinland Saga Episode 1)

One key aspect of Vinland Saga revolves around the story of Vinland, an idyllic land distant from the world’s turmoil. For the first time, we learn this fable when Thors attempts to console a dying slave. However, it is Thorfinn’s habit of sharing this tale with the slaves he meets that truly resonates. Even amid his anguish and thirst for vengeance, Thorfinn clings to his father’s words as a source of solace.

In the vast expanse westward, beyond the mighty ocean lies a land known as Vinland. A haven of warmth and fertility, it stands untouched by the chains of slavery and the devastation of conflict. Here, one can find respite from suffering and pain.

2025-01-15 00:14