Sweyn

Sweyn Forkbeard is the King of Denmark at the start of Vinland Saga and the main villain of the war part of the story. He is based on the real Danish king of the same name. In the series, he has conquered nearly all of England and Wales while still holding on to his lands in the north.

Sweyn is clever, fierce, and completely ruthless. His sharp mind and harsh battle tactics let him keep a tight grip on his huge empire. He sees his younger son, Prince Canute, as weak, and he even plots to have him killed so that his older son, Harald, can take the throne without any challenge.

His plans run into trouble because of Askeladd, the cunning mercenary leader who has been guarding Canute. Canute's alliance with Askeladd turns into Sweyn's greatest threat, and their clash plays a major role in deciding who will rule next.