The fact that this thread has only two pages is an absolute crime. I've just recently finished watching S1 of the anime, and this show is absolutely amazing. When Canute finally matured, that's when the whole thing just took off and never looked back. Askeladd is one of the best-written characters I know. Thorkell is loveable and hilarious. Canute has quickly grown on me with his development as a king and last but not least, Thorfinn who has gone through some extreme turmoil, and I'm stoked to see his development as the protagonist in the future seasons. I will remain anime-only for this series as the anime is too beautiful to move on from to the manga for me. Anyway, a spectacular S1 and I greatly look forward to S2.