The short and direct answer is: Erwin Smith does not appear in Vinland Saga. While both Vinland Saga and Attack on Titan are beloved anime and manga series that captivate audiences with their epic scale, intense warfare, and profound character development, Erwin Smith is a central figure exclusively in Attack on Titan.
It's common for fans of expansive, character-driven narratives to sometimes conflate elements from different series, especially when they share similar themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of conflict. However, the world of Vinland Saga is entirely separate, set in the historical Viking age of the 11th century, a stark contrast to Attack on Titan's unique post-apocalyptic fantasy setting.
This guide will clear up any confusion by diving deep into the actual characters, ages, and timeline of Makoto Yukimura's masterful Vinland Saga. We'll explore the ages of its iconic figures and show you where to go if you're interested in learning more about the characters who truly define this incredible historical epic.
Unraveling the Vinland Saga Timeline: A Journey Through Eras
Vinland Saga masterfully spans several years, depicting its characters' growth and the major historical events that shape their lives. The story begins around 1002 AD in Iceland, focusing on Thorfinn's childhood, before catapulting into the tumultuous Danish invasion of England that dominates the initial arcs. As the narrative progresses, significant time skips occur, allowing us to witness characters mature, endure hardships, and ultimately evolve.
Understanding these time jumps is crucial to grasping the character development. From Thorfinn's early days as a child consumed by vengeance to his later years seeking peace and founding a new land, the timeline itself is a character, reflecting the passage of time and the weight of experience on each individual. To truly , we've compiled a comprehensive guide that charts every pivotal moment.
Thorfinn's Transformation: From Vengeful Child to Peaceful Explorer
Thorfinn's age is perhaps the most dynamic and central to Vinland Saga's narrative. We first meet him as a curious and eager six-year-old boy in Iceland. His world is shattered quickly, and by the time he joins Askeladd's band, he's a determined, vengeance-driven young teenager, likely around 12 to 13 years old, honed by years of combat.
The infamous England arc sees Thorfinn grow into a formidable, albeit emotionally stunted, warrior in his late teens. Following the dramatic conclusion of that arc, a significant time skip occurs, finding Thorfinn in his early twenties during the "Slavery Arc." By the time he embarks on his journey to Vinland, he has matured further, physically and philosophically, entering his mid-twenties. His journey is a profound exploration of human nature, war, and atonement, directly tied to his evolving age and experiences. For a detailed breakdown, you can .
The Shifting Sands of Power: Canute's Ascent to Kingship
Prince Canute begins his journey in Vinland Saga as a timid, sheltered 17-year-old. His initial appearance is marked by his gentle demeanor and reliance on his retainer, Ragnar. However, circumstances thrust him into a world of political intrigue and brutal warfare, forcing a dramatic transformation.
Following Askeladd's sacrifice and the subsequent political maneuvers, Canute quickly hardens, shedding his innocent facade to become a ruthless and ambitious king. While his exact age isn't always explicitly stated during every political maneuver, his reign and the events that follow imply a considerable passage of time, seeing him solidify his power as a young adult in his early to mid-twenties. Witnessing this rapid maturity and his strategic brilliance unfold is a core part of the series' appeal. To fully , be sure to check out our dedicated guide.
The Enigma of Askeladd: A Mentor's Tragic Wisdom
Askeladd, Thorfinn's complex mentor and nemesis, is a veteran warrior and strategist with a long and storied past. While his exact age is never explicitly stated, he is clearly a man in his prime, having led his Viking band for many years and accumulated vast experience in warfare and political manipulation. Based on his appearance, his established history, and his role as a leader, he is generally perceived to be in his late 30s to early 40s during the events of the England arc.
His mixed Welsh and Danish heritage, along with his deep understanding of history and strategy, paints a picture of a man who has lived a full and often brutal life. His wisdom and tactical genius are products of decades of survival and observation. To , our detailed character profile is an essential read.
Beyond the Main Trio: Ages of Vinland Saga's Diverse Cast
Vinland Saga is rich with a diverse cast of characters, each contributing to the depth of its world. While not all ages are precisely pinpointed, we can infer a great deal about them through context and their roles in the narrative:
- Thorkell: Thorfinn's grand-uncle is a colossal Jomsviking general. Given his long career and reputation as "Thorkell the Tall," he's depicted as a seasoned warrior, likely in his 50s or 60s, defying his age with unmatched strength and combat prowess.
- Leif Erikson: The kindly Greenlander explorer searching for Thorfinn is clearly an older, experienced seafarer, likely in his 50s or 60s throughout the main events, symbolizing the enduring hope of the old world.
- Einar: Thorfinn's closest friend during the Slavery Arc appears to be roughly the same age as Thorfinn in his early twenties, making him a contemporary and a parallel journeyer in seeking peace.
- Gudrid: Thorfinn's eventual wife is introduced as a young woman from Greenland, likely in her early twenties, who yearns for adventure on the open seas.
- Hild: The skilled huntress and engineer, seeking justice for her family, seems to be a mature young adult, possibly in her late twenties or early thirties, with a calm but unwavering resolve.
The varied ages of these characters create a vibrant tapestry, from the naive young to the wise old, each bringing a unique perspective to the harsh realities and enduring hopes of the Viking age. You can by exploring our comprehensive character guides.
Why the Confusion? Erwin Smith and Attack on Titan
It's understandable why there might be a fleeting moment of confusion between Vinland Saga and Attack on Titan, leading to searches like "Erwin Smith in Vinland Saga." Both series are critically acclaimed, feature intense action, deeply explore themes of war and freedom, and boast complex, morally gray characters.
Erwin Smith, the charismatic and brilliant commander of the Survey Corps in Attack on Titan, is known for his unwavering resolve, tactical genius, and the immense sacrifices he makes for humanity's future. He is depicted as a man in his late 30s or early 40s, a mature leader bearing the weight of his command. His stoic demeanor, strategic mind, and the profound impact he has on his protagonist, Eren Yeager, parallel some of the qualities fans might appreciate in Vinland Saga's characters like Askeladd or even Canute. However, their worlds, settings, and historical contexts remain distinctly separate. For fans interested in exploring this iconic commander's story, you can to learn more about him.
While Erwin Smith's leadership and the brutal world of Attack on Titan offer a compelling narrative, Vinland Saga stands as a unique masterpiece. It offers a grounded, yet equally profound, exploration of historical conflict, personal growth, and the quest for a peaceful land in a world defined by violence. Understanding the true characters and their evolving ages within this saga allows for a deeper appreciation of its intricate storytelling and powerful themes.