How Old Is Thorfinn in Attack on Titans Storyline?

It's a common query, and one we're here to definitively clarify: Thorfinn, the resilient protagonist many readers are eager to learn about, is actually not a character from Attack on Titan. He is the central figure of the critically acclaimed historical epic, Vinland Saga. There's often a mix-up when discussing popular anime and manga, and we completely understand why fans might connect two intense, action-packed series.
While Thorfinn doesn't appear in the world of Titans and Paradis Island, his own saga is equally gripping and full of significant transformations that impact his age and outlook. If you're curious about the journey of this remarkable Viking warrior and how his age progresses through his incredible story, you've come to the right place. We'll explore Thorfinn's timeline within Vinland Saga, detailing his age through each pivotal arc and addressing the initial confusion head-on. To truly understand why Thorfinn isn't part of the Survey Corps, you might find our dedicated guide on incredibly helpful.

Thorfinn's Formative Years: From Greenland to Askeladd's Ship

Thorfinn's story begins in a peaceful, albeit isolated, setting. We are introduced to him as a spirited and curious young boy of just six years old, living with his family in the serene lands of Greenland. This idyllic existence, however, is shattered by a brutal twist of fate that sets the course for his entire life: the murder of his father, Thors, by the cunning mercenary Askeladd.
Driven by an overwhelming desire for revenge, a young Thorfinn secretly stows away on Askeladd's ship, embarking on a dangerous path he could scarcely comprehend. For the next eleven years, his life is intertwined with the very man he vows to kill, forging a childhood unlike any other. For a deep dive into these crucial early moments that define his motivations, consider exploring .

Thorfinn's Teenage Years as a Warrior in Askeladd's Viking Group

As part of Askeladd's band of Vikings, Thorfinn quickly learns the brutal realities of warfare. We witness his early combat prowess as he participates in raids, such as the attack on East Anglia, when he is around 12 years old. These years are marked by constant conflict, where he hones his skills as an almost supernaturally agile fighter, always with his eye on Askeladd.
The War Arc, a prolonged conflict between Denmark and England, sees Thorfinn fully immersed in the heart of battle. During this tumultuous period, Thorfinn is approximately 16 years old, demonstrating formidable combat abilities despite his youth. His entire existence is shaped by a singular, consuming purpose. To understand the intricacies of his life during this period of intense growth and violence, we recommend checking out .

The Hardship and Growth During Thorfinn's Slavery Years

A profound turning point in Thorfinn's life occurs with the death of Askeladd at the hands of Prince Canute. In a fit of grief and rage, Thorfinn, now around 17 or 18 years old, attempts to attack the prince. This desperate act leads to his consequence: he is sold into slavery. This marks the beginning of the "Slavery Arc," a transformative period that completely reshapes his identity beyond just a vengeful warrior.
He spends the next three to four years laboring on Ketil's farm, stripped of his weapons and his former purpose. It is during this time, through immense hardship and the influence of Einar, that Thorfinn begins to reconsider his life's path and truly grow as a person. By the end of this arc, when he gains his freedom, Thorfinn is around 22 years old, a far cry from the boy obsessed with revenge. Learn more about how these trials forged a new Thorfinn in our guide to .

Thorfinn's Journey to Vinland and His Current Age

After finally gaining his freedom, a more mature and purposeful Thorfinn returns to Greenland. His aim is no longer vengeance but to pursue a grander dream: finding Vinland, a legendary land free from war and slavery, where he hopes to establish a truly peaceful settlement. He intends to fund this ambitious journey by traveling east to Greece.
In the ongoing narrative of the manga, Thorfinn's current age is 25 years old. This represents the culmination of years of hardship, growth, and the development of a profound philosophy centered on peace and genuine understanding. His journey to Vinland is the ultimate testament to his transformation from a young, rage-filled warrior to a hopeful pioneer. For a deeper look into his current adventures and aspirations, delve into .
Thorfinn's story, while not taking place among the walls and Titans, offers a powerful narrative of growth, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a better world. It’s a testament to how profoundly a character's age reflects their evolving experiences and the wisdom gained along their epic journey.