Vinland Saga (TV Series) Oath (2023) User Reviews

Vinland saga is empathy

[alekhe · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

Vinland Saga's latest episode marks a significant turning point in the story's narrative, both in terms of character development and thematic depth. Vinland Saga is not about Vikings killing each other.

The author's true vision for the series finally takes shape. The episode's theme is centered around the idea that even in the darkest of times, we have no true enemies. The concept of empathy and understanding takes center stage, highlighting the importance of compassion in times of conflict. The story becomes a reflection of human nature, and the characters are portrayed as flawed but capable of growth and redemption.

Vinland Saga's latest episode shows that it's a dark work that doesn't shy away from the violence and brutality of its setting. However, it's the exploration of the characters' psyche that elevates the show beyond its action sequences. It's a show that demands attention and reflection, as it presents a nuanced and thought-provoking take on the human condition.

In conclusion, the latest episode of Vinland Saga is a significant milestone in the series' narrative, marking a transition from a simple revenge story to a more complex exploration of human nature.

He's Only Human.

[rxckne · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

This season of Vinland Saga has been a clear change in pace that might not be loved by some who enjoyed the first season, but after the events of The End of the Prologue this slow paced change is extremely necessary for the sake of Thorfinn's character in my opinion. He's been crushed and left with little to no purpose after chasing a flawed goal for over a decade by trying to take Askeladd's life to fill that void in him, but the sad irony is Askeladd became more of a father figure to Thorfinn than Thors himself. So after the events of the prologue the void nearly became Thorfinn and trying to climb out of that void is something that shouldn't be settled with cool fight scenes, quicker paced episodes, but rather with slow character development that makes you more invested in Thorfinn's progression. Whether that's learning to grow plants at a farm or learning to make a friend, or even making you feel at rock bottom for simply punching someone, I think this season has shown a more human side to this story and shows us that grief isn't something that is to be glossed over or rushed past, but rather be treated day by day.

That being said I love what they've done with the season up until this point and the direction they took in this episode was great to see. Clearly the characters they've introduced with Snake, Ketil, his son Thorgil and others will have more of a role as this season and series goes on, as well as the faces we've already seen in the past with Canute and Thorkell. But seeing Thorfinn and Einar trying to get by day by day is something that I wasn't expecting to enjoy, but I am and I'm glad this story is being treated with the delicacy and patience it deserves.

The absolute turning point for Thorfinn's character! Goated Episode!

[TomiMaster14 · 10/10 · 6 March 2023]

Vinland Saga Season 2 episode 9: Oath The last episode was already a special one and phenomenal in my opinion, but this is just another level, I can't believe this...

This has to be one of the best episode in Vinland Saga, that was such a cathartic experience.

And also one of the most important episodes of Thorfinn's character. So much development right there!

Thorfinn crying and Askeladd teaching Thorfinn like a father to move on with his guilt and climb up to take another chance on his life. His talk with his father Thors and Askeladd will forever impact me..., so damn powerful.

Vinland Saga has to be one of the most inspirational pieces of media I ever seen. After this episode and this whole season in general is so special for me, and I feel that there is more greatness to come.., I can't wait to experience this story as a whole.

One of the best episodes in anime history

[fdzero · 10/10 · 2 April 2023]

I know that some people may disagree, but this was the best episode in the entire show, and if not one of the best in anime. The reason is clearly ONE ,that the show was built for this episode, where we finally see thorfinn's complete character change as he finally accepts the truth about not having enemies , and the person that helps him, is no other than Askeladd, he's past biggest enemy, which even dead he truly helped Thorfinn about how he needs to see the world and to remember what his father was! The animation, the ost and his wake from the supposed dream he had (after that punch) , is astonishing and Thorfinns breakdown OMG. I think anyone who loved him, definitely cried as hell. Also everytime I see him happy , I feel really emotional about how his life was! Really excited for the rest of the show. This truly is a hidden gem.

Philosophy 101

[tudorpopescu-70158 · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

Great way to show the true colors of mindless killing. Animation was on point, from details like the fingers to whole scenes like Askeladd standing on the column. A lot of things are related to the first season so you should make sure you remember that before watching this episode. The way guilt was portayed was very well done, also the amount of symbolism that was used helped it gain a philosophy-like vibe. Not a lot of action shown, but there was no need for that since the scenes and the dialog was very well done. Kind of episode you should watch alone at night with the lights off and with headphones on.

Best ep. of S2, and second-best in the show altogether.

[whatisaburrito · 10/10 · 6 March 2023]

This episode is the culmination of what makes Thorfinn who he is and who he will be -- it's really a testament to the people and things that have defined him most.

So many stories would blunder at this sort of moment: a time when the main character is facing a truly life-changing event despite it being something that normally isn't remembered (dreams). Putting so much heart and emotion into this episode, combined with improvement-driven encouragement, creates a chilling sense of redemption and rebirth. It's an ode to the lessons Thorfinn has learned along the way and, additionally, his most important one: becoming a true warrior.

Not to mention, it draws a harrowing parallel between the things Thorfinn has done before and what he needs to do now.

WOW!!!!!

[saicodaiko · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

Literally a masterpiece. Never thought I'd see episode dethrones AOT's Friday episode. WOW, WOW, WOW. This episode included all the technical elements that we usually see in masterful movies. Creative directing, well-done dialogues, and eye-pleasing drawing. What makes this episode the best in this season is the appearance of the great character Ashilad, who we have always admired and missed in this season. I liked the writer's philosophy. And the contrast between Thors' and Ashilad's conversation addressed to Thorfinn. "Nobody is your enemy" says Thors, "Everyone but you is your enemy" says Ashilad. I love this Anime man. Looking forward for the new era Thorfinn.

forgiveness

[Ptipana · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

Thorfinn attempts to strike a balance between his regrets and redemption. He is suffering as a result of his previous deeds, but we can't hold it against him-he was just a child. Furthermore, in the episode "Oath," Thorfinn's regrets are explored in further detail. And offers insight into the themes of the series, such as the cost of violence and the pursuit of a peaceful existence. The episode is a nuanced exploration of Thorfinn's condition, with complex characters and themes, as well as an entertaining watching experience provided by the animation and soundtrack, which keep getting better. And that leaves a lasting impression on me.

Hauntingly beautifull!

[and_mikkelsen · 10/10 · 20 March 2023]

This was an unforgetable episode! Thorfinn is confronted with his past in a way i will nrver forget! I had all kinds of emotions watching this! I could feel the tears at time! This was art! This was legendary!

As Thorfinn is confronted with who he is amd who he was, we get some of the BEST character development i have ever seen! It is never to late to change and face yourself! God level writing!

The animation was amazing! Shots and scenes printed in my mind! A dark and disturbing atmosphere combined with the great soundtrack!

This was one of the best episodes of the show! Season 2 does not dissapoint!

10/10

[jpointer-26484 · 10/10 · 9 March 2023]

Sorry but I believe this to be the best Vinland Saga episode so far. Everything about it was perfect to me. Animation was so good, Direction was good, Art direction, Storyboarding was good, Voice Acting was super good, props to Thorfinn's voice actor, the symbolism displayed visual symbolism, development, etc..This was a most anticipated chapter to be animated it did not dissapointed, matter of fact, Mappa elevated the content. I got goosebumps when Thorfinn climbed up, that scream. This episode you could feel Thorfinn and how much guilt he is feeling. Thorfinn, overcome your guilt, carry your guilt, that's what the corpses are for, Thors did the same, no you do it too. Carry your sins, carry your guilt, overcome them and be reborn, become a True Warrior Thorfinn. Acknowledge your sins and receive absolution. Even the creator of the manga cried while watching this episode.

This episode made me shed tears or Joy

[akashbanerjeearoll · 10/10 · 6 March 2023]

The moment of realisation of carrying the one's whom he have had killed along with him to the moment he himself said that he have to do it and keep up climbing with his burden.....the emotions in the voice and the power and depth in the lines Are enough to make you feel the greatness of this masterfully written show. Without having any huge dramatic moments in the ep or plot twists, this episode is still a perfect one and shall be the perfect one🛐....this show us that good episode doesn't require a lot to happen in it but it requires the weight of its own to stand and tell yes I'm a masterpiece and it'll make u feel it to ur inner code.....A huge respect to the mangaka Makoto Yukimura.

A True Warrior

[Tasteless_Critic_Takes · 10/10 · 7 March 2023]

This is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best episode in the whole of Vinland Saga. Probably reaches near top 10 in all of anime, and is undoubtedly the best balance of action, drama and respite I've seen in an episode of the show.

As usual we have all the components of this season: Thorfinn's regret, Einar's will, the suffering they feel together. But this episode takes it further. I've said these characters feel realistic to me previously but the level on which the show artistically conveyed these emotions was something incredible. MAPPA is usually good with emotional moments, but I feel as if the art and adaptation was probably unlike anything they did with Attack on Titan in the sense there was not any malice or evil behind Thorfinn.

A masterclass of an episode. Watch. This. Show.

And see Thorfinn become a true warrior.

Deep dive into a troubled mind

[nyospike · 10/10 · 22 June 2023]

To me this is the best episode in the whole series.

Sums up all the emotions and guilt that Thorfinn carried in his journey. As a viewer, we get to feel all those emotions in 20 minutes. Anger, guilt, sorrow, love, hate, conviction. All these emotions served with top notch visuals, soundtrack and voice acting that shatters the heart. Thorfinn finally finding solace. This whole season is about healing and redemption, and I feel Thorfinn finally gets on the path of healing after this episode. I feel that the series reached its prime in this episode and will continue to add on this wonderful journey of healing.

Episode 9

[jjvanderlaan · 10/10 · 8 March 2023]

I feel like Askeladd is the main reason why we're able to see Thorfinn develop so much throughout the story.

In season 1 Askeladd Kills his father leading to Thorfinn following him for the sole purpose of exacting revenge. Avenging his father who he lost. Throughout the first season we kind of see Thorfinn have development but in the wrong direction. Where he commits mindless acts of murder because that's how he was brought up by the group he decided to follow when he was much younger.

I feel like in his mind all he thought in those moments is that, "if this helps me get to the point of taking my fathers killers head I don't mind". He was in a sense the perfect example of a Viking in real history, when they went on raids they went on mindless murdering sprees, all they cared about was the riches that they could obtain from the towns, but instead the thing awaiting him at the end of the tunnel is Askeladd.

I think the turning point for Thorfinns life was when he witnessed Askeladd die by the hands of someone else not himself. It brought him a sense of despair because now there was no way he was going to be able to avenge his father. Plus realistically Askeladd became someone he looked up to and to be honest there was definitely a sense of respect that he had for Askeladd that he had gained at some point.

Now we get to Farmland Saga where Thorfinn starts seeing the wrong in his life. Especially when Einar came around really helped him with this battle. He was constantly dreaming of all these bad things not being able to pinpoint exactly what happened but know what happened was wrong, and that he needed to fix it.

This episode was the best of the season thus far simply because of that interaction he had with his dad at first who told him that weapon wasn't meant to shed that much blood, and than we have Askeladd in what Thorfinn thought was Valhalla which just so happens to be a place that is worse that warriors get stuck in. Fighting for their lives where everyone for themselves.

Here we have Askeladd sitting on top of this massive pillar talking to him about the wrong he committed. I won't go into too much detail but the point of that conversation was the true turning point of thorfinns life. He started to realize what he did was wrong. He than wanted to become a changed man. Someone who would never hurt others mindlessly.

I'm looking forward to the other 15-16 episodes and seeing Thorfinns character continue to develop but it was just really good seeing him grow through this past episode.

Incredible and Beautiful Writing

[thehumanityy · 10/10 · 28 March 2023]

This is probably one of the best dream sequences I've ever seen in any series or movie, and the fact that it combines seamlessly with Vikings religion and beliefs gives a sort of realistic feeling to it that maybe this isn't a dream but a real glimpse of the afterlife for Thorfinn - Afterlife, Hell, Purgatory, Valhalla? Whatever it is, it's where Thorfinn is going if he can't save himself from falling back into a life of violence and killing.

It answers lingering questions about the unseen inner struggle Thorfinn has been going through this season, but it also leaves so much open to interpretation. Such as, is this the dream Thorfinn has been having every single night - crawling out of purgatory just to fall back down again. The fact that Askeladd is the one who ultimately talks him through his inner turmoil and jumps back down into the depths of Hell to cover his escape just blends perfectly with Thorfinn's confused feelings over his despised former mentor & unwanted father figure. Not only does he come to terms with himself but also some level of his feelings towards Askeladd, the man who killed his father but still a person he formed a close bond with despite everything - likely the only bond he had for those 10 years on the battlefield.

This significant turning point for Thorfinn harbors all the way back to his father's words in the 2nd episode. "You have no enemies, the truth is that nobody has them." Thorfinn is finally beginning to understand this for the first time in his life, and the journey to get there has been frustrating to watch at times, but realistic and beautiful. You couldn't ask for better character development.

A True Warrior

[Nikostrange · 10/10 · 1 February 2024]

Oath is probably my favourite episode out of the whole show. In the episode Throfinn undegoes a transformative journey within his subconscious. Knocked out and confronted by his inner demons, Thorfinn experiences a profound dream sequence where he reconciles with his father and confronts the consequences of his actions. The emotional depth of Thorfinn's dream conversation with his father, adds growth to his character late on.

Moreover, the encounter with Askeladd in Thorfinn's dream is a pivotal moment, as here is shown how many people he has killed within his time in war. Having killed 100 of people Thorfinn starts to cry about what he did and what he has become. Askeladd encourages him to fight his true inner battle ''Take the people you have killed with you. Become something even worse than a monster! Become a TRUE WARRIOR!'' These words encourage Thorfinn to climb back up with this finally waking up. From now on he has a point of living a again and proceeds to become a greater person as well as a true warrior.

I loved Oath so much because the things said to Thorfinn stayed in my mind. I myself did not understand what a true warrior was until this episode.

''Now you understan son.... you have no enemies''

Brilliant

[moritzherz · 8/10 · 6 March 2023]

Last week I critizised the show for lacking a bit of action. Masterful storytelling, extraordinary characters and breathtaking visuals but a bit more action. And what have they done this week? Exactly, they fulfilled even this last wish.

This episode concentrates mostly on Thorfinn again, this time using a brilliant metaphore to give him the last step of becoming a new man. And that is were they pull out the big ones. Without spoilering you the episode, there are some old belived characters coming back on screen. This metaphoric sequence takes most of the episode, but they also manage to get the story forward. Einar and Thorfinn stand through their problematic situation and show that together they can face everything. I have to repeat myself, those two, the relation is just perfect! It's always a pleasure seeing them.

With this said, Mappa eliminated the last criticism I had, so I can not do anything else than give my 100% recommendation for EVERYBODY!

What's the future like?!

[jhdb · 8/10 · 10 March 2023]

For someone that managed to stay away from the manga, I just have no idea what to expect from this show.

Promise for no more violence? What do you mean? Violence is what made people watch Vinland in the first place and violence will be needed to protect his loved ones. Thorfin is just a shell of what he used to be and he's only a body haunted by his nightmares and sins. I believe he got that after losing his goal with Askelads death.

This season appears to try and give Thorfin a different path, but still cannot connect the relation on how he is now with Canute.

But, nonetheless, amazing episode.