English Dub Review: Vinland Saga: “Two Paths”

Overview: With Einar (Ian Sinclair) at his side, Thorfinn (Mike Haimoto) does his best to lead Canute (Jessie James Grelle) down a path of peace to avoid any further bloodshed. 

Our Take: Continuing their heated debate, Thorfinn topples Canute with his strongest weapon thus far: his heart. Thorfinn’s role as an ambassador for peace speaks volumes about his character, especially with a bloodline that’s rooted in strife. Most importantly, it’s a powerful way of reinvigorating Canute’s hope for humanity, laying down his arms and disbanding his army. Most shocking is how it paves the way for his kinghood through peace showing how infectious Thorfinn’s compassion is. It is a key aspect of what makes him so engrossing and his influence is seen in other characters too.

Thorfinn’s impact on Snake, Sverkel and Olmar is beautifully present in their efforts to redevelop Ketil’s farm for a hard, honest day’s work. Everyone’s progression makes Thorgil’s intolerance towards civility even more pathetic, reinforcing the idea of the violent, endless cycle. While the episode is strong in character building, it is not without its faults. There’s lingering plot points with lack of payoff, such as the psychological grip Canute’s father has on him or the aftermath of Ketil’s actions. 

However, that hardly diminishes the achievement of Thorfinn and Canute’s story, overall. Einar and Thorfinn’s journey to find Vinland serves as an emotional, impactful response to the despair that Arnheid suffered.