Lance Corporal Thomas “Tom” Blake is one of the central figures in the 2019 war film 1917, a powerful and intense portrayal of World War I directed by Sam Mendes. Played with emotional depth by actor Dean-Charles Chapman, Lance Corporal Thomas Blake stands out as a young British soldier thrust into an incredibly dangerous mission alongside his comrade, Lance Corporal William Schofield, portrayed by George MacKay. The two are assigned a critical task—to deliver a life-saving message that could prevent a disastrous attack on Allied troops.
From the very beginning, Tom Blake comes across as someone full of energy and determination. Even though he’s relatively inexperienced and still quite young, there’s a clear sense of duty and courage in everything he does. As the story progresses, we see just how much heart and resilience Lance Corporal Thomas Blake brings to the front lines. He doesn’t shy away from danger; instead, he faces it head-on, driven by a deep commitment to his fellow soldiers and the hope of preventing unnecessary loss of life.
What makes Lance Corporal Thomas Blake such a compelling character is not just his bravery, but also his humanity. In the midst of chaos and destruction, he remains compassionate, quick-witted, and surprisingly optimistic. His interactions with others reveal a warm, outgoing personality—someone who can lighten the mood even in the most dire circumstances. It’s this balance of strength and sensitivity that makes Blake so memorable throughout the film.
In fact, many viewers have noted that Lance Corporal Thomas Blake embodies the ESFP personality type—often described as “The Entertainer.” This fits perfectly with his lively, spontaneous nature. He lives very much in the moment, responding instinctively to threats and challenges as they arise. His sharp senses and ability to adapt quickly under pressure make him exceptionally effective in combat situations. While he might not spend much time dwelling on abstract ideas or long-term strategies, his presence of mind and practical thinking save lives more than once during the mission.
Moreover, when looking at Blake through the lens of the Enneagram, he clearly aligns with Type 7—the Enthusiast—winged with a 6, making him a 7w6. This means that while he’s naturally adventurous, energetic, and always seeking meaning and excitement, he’s also deeply loyal and values security and connection with others. That 6 wing adds a layer of responsibility and teamwork to his otherwise free-spirited outlook. So yes, Lance Corporal Thomas Blake may be all about staying positive and moving forward, but he’s also firmly grounded in his duty to his unit and his mission.
Throughout 1917, we watch as Lance Corporal Thomas Blake evolves—not necessarily in terms of changing who he is, but in how fully he expresses his values under extreme conditions. His optimism isn’t naive; it’s a form of resistance against despair. His humor isn’t just for fun—it helps keep morale alive. And his relentless push forward, even when exhausted and overwhelmed, shows incredible inner strength.
It’s hard not to feel moved by the journey of Lance Corporal Thomas Blake. He represents so much of what was lost and sacrificed during the war—young lives cut short, full of promise and spirit. Yet, in his short time on screen, Tom leaves a lasting impression. Thanks to Dean-Charles Chapman’s heartfelt performance, Lance Corporal Thomas Blake becomes more than just a soldier—he becomes a symbol of courage, hope, and the enduring human spirit amid unimaginable hardship.
So, whether you’re analyzing his personality type, reflecting on his role in the narrative, or simply remembering key moments from the film, one thing remains clear: Lance Corporal Thomas Blake is, without a doubt, one of the most impactful characters in 1917. His name, his actions, and his legacy within the story continue to resonate long after the credits roll.
Their spirit is stronger than any army.