In Attack on Titan, the characters undergo profound transformations, driven by the brutal world they inhabit and the harsh realities of war. The series takes a deep dive into the psychological and emotional evolution of its characters, especially its main protagonists.
Eren Yeager: Eren begins as a hot-headed, determined young boy who wants to destroy all Titans after witnessing the death of his mother. Over the course of the series, his character evolves into a complex anti-hero. His initial desire for revenge becomes intertwined with darker goals as he learns about the true nature of the world. Eren’s journey reflects the loss of innocence and the moral ambiguity of war.
Mikasa Ackerman: Mikasa, Eren’s adoptive sister, starts as a calm and composed character, fiercely protective of Eren. As the series progresses, Mikasa becomes a symbol of unwavering loyalty and emotional strength, but she also struggles with her own feelings of dependency on Eren. Her character development is tightly tied to her emotional attachment and internal struggle to remain strong without losing herself in her love for Eren.
Armin Arlert: Armin’s development is one of the most significant in the series. Initially seen as weak and timid, Armin gradually grows into a strategic genius. He represents the intellectual aspect of the group, often using his mind rather than strength to save his friends and find solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Armin’s evolution is a testament to the power of intelligence, courage, and self-belief.
Levi Ackerman: Levi is one of humanity’s greatest soldiers, known for his exceptional combat skills. However, his character also reveals a deep sense of loneliness, due to his tragic past and the responsibility he feels for his team. Levi’s calm, stoic demeanor hides a complicated inner world where he must constantly confront his emotions and his place in the world.
Erwin Smith: As the leader of the Scout Regiment, Erwin is a visionary and a charismatic leader. His character is defined by his relentless pursuit of truth, no matter the personal cost. Erwin’s development shows the burden of leadership and the ethical dilemmas faced when leading others into peril.
The relationships in Attack on Titan are central to its emotional depth. From the bond between Eren, Mikasa, and Armin to the comradeship and loyalty seen within the military, the anime explores the power of relationships in the face of despair and survival.
Attack on Titan delves into complex philosophical questions surrounding freedom, oppression, morality, and the cycle of violence. The series challenges traditional ideas about good and evil, questioning the very nature of humanity.
Freedom vs. Oppression: One of the most significant philosophical themes is the tension between freedom and oppression. The people inside the walls live under constant fear, with their movements restricted. Eren’s desire for freedom becomes the driving force of the story, but as he learns more about the world, the line between the oppressors and the oppressed blurs. This conflict is further explored when Eren takes drastic steps to break free, showcasing the potential costs of freedom.
The Nature of Humanity: Attack on Titan asks what it means to be human. Are humans defined by their freedom, their ability to fight for survival, or something else? The Titans themselves, once human, raise questions about the fragility of humanity and how easily one can lose their humanity. Eren’s transformation into a Titan shifter is symbolic of this loss of humanity, which challenges the boundaries of what makes a person human.
Cycle of Hatred and War: The series also addresses the cyclical nature of violence. The Titans are born from humans, and the conflict between Marley and Eldia perpetuates the cycle of hatred. Characters like Eren, Zeke, and Historia struggle with the consequences of war and the impact of generational trauma. The question arises whether it’s possible to break the cycle of violence or if humanity is doomed to repeat its mistakes.
Moral Ambiguity and Choices: The series presents moral dilemmas at every turn. Characters are forced to make difficult choices, often with no clear right or wrong answer. For example, Erwin’s decision to sacrifice his comrades for the greater good is morally complex, and Eren’s decision to unleash the Rumbling to annihilate humanity outside the walls raises questions about whether ends justify the means.
The Role of Memory and History: Attack on Titan also explores how history and memory shape identity. The Eldians’ collective memory of being oppressed by the Marleyans plays a key role in their motivation. However, when Eren uncovers the truth about the world’s history, it becomes evident that memory itself can be manipulated, and the truth is often buried beneath layers of propaganda.
The world of Attack on Titan is intricately designed, with a complex history, society, and political structure that all play into the overarching story.
The Walls and Their Significance: The walls that protect humanity from the Titans are central to the series’ world-building. The walls themselves represent the isolation of humanity and the confinement of knowledge. The series begins with the destruction of the outermost wall, which symbolizes the collapse of the fragile security humanity has built. As the series progresses, the walls’ true significance is revealed, with the knowledge of the outside world, and humanity’s true history, becoming a key part of the narrative.
Marley and the Oppression of Eldians: The political landscape of Attack on Titan revolves around the conflict between the Marleyans and the Eldians. Marley, a military empire, uses Eldians as weapons, forcing them into servitude and demonizing them for their ability to transform into Titans. The oppression of Eldians raises questions about racial prejudice, discrimination, and the use of power to subjugate a population. Marley’s government uses fear and propaganda to maintain control, but the truth about the Titans and the Eldian legacy complicates the morality of their actions.
The Military and Power Struggles: The various factions within the military, such as the Scout Regiment, the Garrison, and the Military Police, all have different ideologies and objectives. The power struggles within these groups reveal the darker side of institutional politics. Erwin’s leadership and the sacrifices made by the Scout Regiment highlight the tension between personal ambition and the collective good.
The Warrior Unit and the Titans: Marley’s use of the Titan shifters, individuals who can transform into powerful Titans, creates a complex dynamic between different factions. Characters like Reiner, Annie, and Bertolt, who initially appear as enemies, have their own motivations and inner conflicts, making them far more than simple antagonists. Their allegiance to Marley and their involvement in the war reflect the complexities of loyalty and the blurred lines between right and wrong in times of war.
The antagonists in Attack on Titan are complex, morally ambiguous figures whose motivations are revealed gradually. Rather than typical villains, many characters are driven by personal traumas, political ideologies, and survival instincts.
Eren Yeager: As Eren’s character becomes more complex, he shifts from a hero to an anti-hero. His role as the protagonist gradually overlaps with the antagonist, especially in the final seasons, where his desire for freedom leads him to commit atrocities. Eren’s transformation is a central theme, and his journey challenges the audience to question the nature of heroism and villainy.
Zeke Yeager: Eren’s half-brother, Zeke, serves as a major antagonist in the series. He is initially portrayed as a traitor to humanity, but his motivations are revealed to be much more complicated. Zeke’s actions are influenced by his own traumatic upbringing and his desire to protect Eldians from oppression, even if it means using extreme measures. His role in the story adds another layer of moral complexity.
Reiner Braun: Reiner’s internal conflict is one of the most compelling in the series. As a warrior sent by Marley to infiltrate the Walls, Reiner faces the dilemma of his loyalty to Marley versus his connections to the people he has come to care about. His emotional struggles as a soldier turned double agent humanize him, making him a tragic figure rather than a mere villain.
The Marleyan Military: The Marleyan government and military are often seen as the primary antagonists, especially in the later seasons. Their exploitation of Eldians and use of Titans as weapons creates a dynamic of oppression and resistance, where characters like Eren and the Scouts fight for freedom. The Marleyan leadership, including figures like Willy Tybur and Magath, are driven by their desire to maintain power at any cost, contributing to the cycle of violence and hatred.
The music in Attack on Titan plays a pivotal role in shaping the emotional tone and enhancing the dramatic moments throughout the series. The anime’s soundtrack, composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, is known for its intensity and ability to elevate the already powerful visuals.
Epic and Intense Themes: The score features powerful orchestral compositions, with aggressive and fast-paced tracks that heighten the sense of urgency and chaos during Titan battles. Songs like “Guren no Yumiya” (the first opening theme) and “Shinzo wo Sasageyo” (the second opening theme) are synonymous with Attack on Titan’s action-packed scenes and are beloved by fans for their energy and emotional intensity.
Character Themes: In addition to epic battle music, the soundtrack also features more somber and emotional pieces that highlight the struggles and emotional arcs of the characters. Tracks like “Call Your Name” and “The Reluctant Heroes” capture the quiet, introspective moments of the characters and their inner turmoil, adding a layer of depth to their development.
Dramatic Use of Silence: The anime also employs silence effectively, particularly during moments of high tension or emotional gravitas. The contrast between moments of silence and the sudden bursts of music amplifies the impact of key scenes, making them even more memorable.
Hiroyuki Sawano’s Signature Style: Sawano’s distinctive style blends orchestral elements with electronic beats, creating a unique and memorable sound that is immediately recognizable to fans of the series. His music not only complements the animation but also conveys the underlying themes of war, survival, and the cost of freedom.
The emotional impact of Attack on Titan is one of the series’ strongest features, and it’s part of what makes it resonate so deeply with viewers. The anime’s depiction of loss, trauma, and the complexities of human emotion creates a powerful connection between the audience and the characters.
Loss and Sacrifice: The characters experience immense loss, whether it’s the death of loved ones, the destruction of their homes, or the sacrifice of their comrades. These moments are brutal and heart-wrenching, but they also serve to strengthen the emotional connection viewers have with the characters. For example, the death of pivotal characters like Marco Bott, Sasha Blouse, and Erwin Smith is a painful reminder of the high stakes of the conflict, making viewers question the cost of survival.
Humanity’s Struggle: The series effectively portrays the human condition in a world where survival is the ultimate goal. It explores themes of hopelessness, despair, and the desire for vengeance, but also offers moments of hope, solidarity, and resilience. These conflicting emotions create an emotional rollercoaster for the viewer, who is often left grappling with the moral complexity of the characters’ actions.
Connection to the Characters: The strength of Attack on Titan lies in its characters’ relatability. Even though they are placed in extraordinary circumstances, their emotions, fears, and motivations feel incredibly human. Whether it’s Eren’s rage, Mikasa’s unwavering loyalty, or Armin’s fear and self-doubt, viewers can relate to their struggles, making the series not just an action-packed spectacle, but also a deeply emotional experience.
Moral Dilemmas and Emotional Growth: The series constantly challenges viewers with ethical dilemmas that force them to reconsider their initial perceptions of characters and events. This emotional complexity ensures that viewers are always emotionally invested in the outcome, whether they agree with the character’s choices or not.
At its core, Attack on Titan is a story about war — its devastating effects on both individuals and societies. The psychological and social consequences of conflict are explored in depth throughout the series.
Psychological Trauma: Many characters in Attack on Titan suffer from psychological trauma due to the violence and loss they experience. Eren, for example, is deeply affected by the death of his mother and the constant war, leading to a thirst for revenge that gradually consumes him. Mikasa, Armin, and other characters are also haunted by their experiences, and the show does not shy away from depicting the toll that war takes on their mental states.
Post-Traumatic Stress: The trauma experienced by soldiers like Jean, Connie, and Sasha is palpable. The series depicts them as being scarred by the deaths of their comrades, the constant threat of the Titans, and the weight of leadership. These characters’ personal struggles with trauma make them more relatable and human, adding a layer of realism to the otherwise fantastical world.
Social Division and Dehumanization: Attack on Titan explores how war leads to social divisions, dehumanization, and the creation of “enemy” categories. The conflict between Marley and Eldia is rooted in deep historical hatred, and this is reflected in the attitudes and prejudices the characters hold toward one another. The Marleyan military dehumanizes Eldians, seeing them as expendable tools for war. Similarly, Eldians living in the Walls are taught to fear and hate Titans, unaware that they are connected to the very monsters they despise.
The Impact of War on Families: The show also examines the effect of war on families. The bonds between family members are often tested by the harsh realities of battle. Characters like Mikasa and Levi deal with the loss of family members, while others like Eren and Armin experience their own sense of alienation and loss. The fractured families in the series reflect the broader theme of a world that has been torn apart by conflict.
While Attack on Titan is not directly about alchemy, there are significant parallels with the world of science, especially when it comes to the origins of the Titans and the mechanisms behind their existence. The series touches on scientific advancements, biological manipulation, and the creation of Titans.
Titan Science and Biology: The Titans themselves are central to the story’s conflict, and understanding their origins becomes crucial. The idea of “Titan Shifters,” people who can transform into Titans, is a key scientific element that plays into the narrative. This concept raises questions about genetic engineering, the manipulation of human biology, and the unintended consequences of tampering with nature.
The Role of Zeke and Eren’s Discovery: The discovery of the true nature of the Titans and their connection to the Eldians is rooted in a scientific understanding of genetics. Zeke and Eren’s exploration of the origins of the Titans leads them to uncover the truth about the “Paths” and the interconnectedness of all Eldians. This scientific revelation plays a pivotal role in the story and shapes the characters’ understanding of their world.
Historical Context and Technological Progress: Throughout the series, the characters must grapple with a world that has been stunted by a lack of technological progress due to the isolation created by the Walls. As the story progresses and the characters venture beyond the Walls, they encounter more advanced technology and a society that is far more developed, leading to an exploration of the consequences of technological disparity between different civilizations.
Attack on Titan is rich with references to mythology and legendary creatures, many of which play crucial roles in the story. These mythological elements not only enhance the world-building but also deepen the thematic complexity of the series.
The Titans as Mythological Beasts: The Titans themselves can be seen as modern interpretations of ancient mythical creatures, like giants or monsters. The colossal size and almost supernatural abilities of these creatures evoke images of gods and titans from various mythologies. In particular, the Colossal Titan and the Armored Titan bear striking resemblances to mythic beings that were once seen as unstoppable forces.
The Founding Titan and the Power of Myth: The Founding Titan, one of the most powerful and elusive of the Nine Titans, holds the key to controlling the memories and history of the Eldian people. This reference to the manipulation of memory and history is deeply rooted in mythological traditions, where gods or powerful beings control the fate of mortals by altering their memories or destinies.
The Concept of “Paths”: The “Paths” that link all Eldians to the Founding Titan are shrouded in mystery and carry a mythic quality. These ethereal, almost otherworldly connections between the characters and the Titans evoke themes of fate and destiny, which are common in mythological stories where the gods play a direct role in shaping the lives of mortals.
The “Rumbling” as a Mythological Event: The Rumbling itself — an apocalyptic event that Eren aims to initiate — draws comparisons to mythological world-ending events. These events, often associated with the destruction of the world and the rebirth of a new order, echo ideas found in various cultures’ creation and destruction myths.
Attack on Titan employs unique narrative techniques that help tell its story in a dynamic and engaging way. From its narrative structure to its innovative use of flashbacks, the anime keeps its audience on the edge of their seats.
Non-linear Storytelling: One of the standout features of Attack on Titan is its non-linear storytelling. The series frequently uses flashbacks and time jumps to provide crucial context and develop character backstories. For example, the reveal of the history of Marley and the true nature of the Titans comes gradually, with the narrative switching between the perspectives of the Eldians in the Walls and those outside the Walls, keeping the audience engaged in the mystery.
Multiple Perspectives: The series often shifts perspectives between different characters, giving viewers insight into various viewpoints. This technique allows for deeper exploration of the moral gray areas within the conflict. For example, the story does not merely focus on the perspectives of the protagonists but also delves into the motivations and struggles of the Marleyan warriors like Reiner and Zeke. This multiplicity of perspectives helps to blur the lines between hero and villain.
Suspense and Reveals: The series is known for its use of suspense and gradual reveals. Key plot points and character motivations are often hidden for many episodes before being revealed at the right moment, leading to shocking twists. This includes the reveal of the true identities of the Titans within the Walls and the shocking discovery about the outside world.
Flashbacks and Character Backstories: Attack on Titan uses flashbacks to deepen the characters’ motivations and provide context for their actions. For example, the flashbacks about Eren’s childhood, Mikasa’s backstory, and the history of Marley all help to flesh out the world and show how past events shape current conflicts.
The themes of ethics and morality are central to Attack on Titan, and the series challenges viewers to think critically about concepts of right and wrong, especially in the context of war.
The Ethics of Revenge: Eren’s journey is heavily driven by a desire for revenge against the Titans for the destruction of his home and the death of his mother. As the series progresses, his methods become increasingly ruthless, forcing viewers to question the ethicality of seeking vengeance at all costs. The question of whether revenge is ever truly justified is explored in depth through Eren’s character arc.
The Morality of War: Attack on Titan doesn’t shy away from the moral implications of war. The series portrays war as a brutal and dehumanizing force that forces characters to make impossible decisions. Erwin’s decision to send soldiers to their deaths for the sake of a greater cause, and Eren’s eventual choice to destroy humanity outside the walls, raise questions about whether the greater good ever justifies sacrificing individuals.
The Choice Between Peace and Violence: Throughout the series, characters are constantly faced with choices between peace and violence. For example, Armin’s desire for peace contrasts with Eren’s belief that destruction is the only way to achieve freedom. These philosophical debates drive the moral questions of the series, particularly in the final seasons, where the characters’ choices will determine the fate of humanity.
The Ethics of Power: The power wielded by those who control the Titans is another key moral dilemma. The Founding Titan, for instance, has the power to alter memories and control people’s actions, which raises questions about the ethics of such power. The characters must confront the responsibility that comes with such abilities, and whether using them for personal gain or the “greater good” is morally justifiable.
The conclusion of Attack on Titan is one of the most anticipated and heavily debated aspects of the series. The final arc ties together many of the complex themes explored throughout the series, offering a conclusion that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
The Fate of Eren: Eren’s ultimate fate is central to the conclusion, and his transformation from a hopeful freedom fighter to someone willing to sacrifice everything for his vision of freedom is both tragic and inevitable. His journey raises questions about whether true freedom is attainable or whether it is merely an illusion.
The Rumbling and its Aftermath: The Rumbling, a cataclysmic event that destroys much of the world, serves as the ultimate test of the characters’ beliefs and values. It forces characters to confront the cost of their actions and the consequences of choosing violence over peace. The aftermath of the Rumbling prompts questions about whether humanity can rebuild after such a devastating event and whether peace can ever be achieved.
Legacy and Redemption: One of the central themes of the final arc is the legacy of the Eldians and the potential for redemption. The characters are forced to grapple with their past actions and the choices they made, while also considering how they want to be remembered. The conclusion offers a nuanced view of redemption, with some characters finding peace and others confronting the lasting consequences of their choices.
The Cycle of Violence: The series ends on a bittersweet note, with the characters coming to terms with the cyclical nature of violence. While the Rumbling ends the war between Marley and Eldia, it also opens up new challenges and questions about the future. The final scenes suggest that humanity must learn from its past mistakes and break the cycle of hatred and conflict, offering a glimmer of hope in the midst of tragedy.
Since its debut, Attack on Titan has had a profound influence on both anime and broader pop culture.
Global Popularity: The anime has achieved worldwide success, drawing in a massive fanbase across different countries. Its themes of war, freedom, and survival resonate with audiences globally, and the series’ shocking twists and emotional depth have helped it stand out in the anime landscape.
Cultural References: Attack on Titan has inspired countless memes, fan theories, and discussions, becoming a major part of anime discourse. Its impact on popular culture is evident in the way it has influenced other media, from anime to video games to Western television shows.
Merchandise and Spin-offs: The series has spawned a wide array of merchandise, video games, and spin-offs, including novels and manga adaptations. Its reach extends beyond the anime community, and it has become a cultural phenomenon in its own right.
Attack on Titan draws on various cultural influences, from historical events to mythological narratives.
Historical Inspirations: The series’ depiction of militaristic societies, oppression, and the cycle of violence is influenced by real-world history, particularly events like the rise of fascism, World War II, and the treatment of marginalized groups. The conflict between Marley and Eldia, with its racial tensions and systemic oppression, mirrors historical examples of colonization and imperialism.
Japanese National Identity: The show also reflects aspects of Japanese national identity, particularly themes of isolationism, nationalism, and the tension between tradition and modernity. The Walls in Attack on Titan symbolize the isolationist policies of Japan during certain periods of its history.
Mythological Themes: As previously mentioned, the Titans themselves have a deep connection to mythological beings from various cultures. The exploration of memory, fate, and destiny in the series draws on mythological tropes, with the characters’ struggles mirroring the trials faced by heroes in classic myths.
Family is a central theme in Attack on Titan, particularly in terms of its depiction of sibling relationships and the bonds formed during war.
Eren and Mikasa: The bond between Eren and Mikasa is one of the most iconic in the series. Their relationship is built on deep loyalty and shared history, but it is also tested by the events of the story. Mikasa’s devotion to Eren is a driving force behind her actions, and the series explores how their relationship evolves as Eren’s character changes.
The Ackerman Family: The Ackerman family, with its strong bloodline and history of protecting
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