Askeladd stands out as a central figure in the anime Vinland Saga, a narrative set in medieval Scandinavia that follows the journey of Thorfinn, a young Viking driven by vengeance for his father’s death. At the helm of a band of mercenaries known as the “Jomsvikings,” Askeladd exudes a cold and calculating demeanor, making him a truly formidable presence in the story.

While he is undeniably skilled in combat, Askeladd’s true power lies in his intellect and strategic mind. He often outsmarts his enemies not through brute force, but through clever manipulation and psychological tactics. His ability to read people with precision allows him to exploit their weaknesses, and this is especially evident in the way he handles Thorfinn—keeping him under control through a mix of fear, influence, and emotional pressure.

Askeladd’s character is far from one-dimensional. As the series progresses, his past is gradually unveiled, revealing a complex individual shaped by identity struggles. Born to a Danish father and a Welsh mother, he grapples with internal conflict regarding his heritage and loyalties. His ultimate ambition is to accumulate power and wealth, and he pursues this goal relentlessly, even if it means betraying those closest to him.

In essence, Askeladd is a deeply layered and compelling character in Vinland Saga. His intelligence, strategic thinking, and inner turmoil make him not only a powerful antagonist but also an intriguing figure whose actions and motivations keep viewers engaged.

Looking at his behavior and decision-making, Askeladd fits the profile of an ENTJ personality type—someone who is extroverted, intuitive, thinking, and judging. He naturally exudes charisma and possesses strong leadership qualities that allow him to manipulate situations and people to his advantage. Askeladd leads not through impulse, but through calculated planning and a deep understanding of his opponents’ vulnerabilities. He consistently keeps the long-term goal in focus, making tough decisions when necessary.

His intuitive nature also plays a major role in how he operates. Askeladd has a sharp ability to read people, which enables him to predict their actions and stay one step ahead. His thinking is highly logical, and he doesn’t hesitate to make ruthless choices if they serve his greater ambitions—even if that means sacrificing others. Moreover, he is known for being decisive and methodical, always having a strategy in place and rarely wavering from it.

Though his actions may not always align with traditional morality, it is precisely his ENTJ traits that make Askeladd such a strong and effective leader.

In addition to his MBTI type, Askeladd also exhibits characteristics of an Enneagram Type 8, often referred to as the Challenger. This personality type is defined by a strong desire for control, dominance, and independence—traits that Askeladd clearly embodies throughout the series.

As a Type 8, Askeladd constantly seeks to assert his authority and maintain control over his environment. He thrives in situations where he can outmaneuver others and take charge, which is evident in the way he commands his crew and influences those around him. However, this drive for dominance often comes at the cost of empathy. Askeladd is willing to use people, including Thorfinn, as tools to achieve his goals, showing little remorse when doing so.

Ultimately, while Enneagram types are not absolute, Askeladd’s behavior and motivations align closely with those of a Type 8. His relentless pursuit of power, combined with his commanding presence and strategic mind, make him a classic example of the Challenger archetype—someone who will stop at nothing to maintain control and achieve his ambitions.