Exploring the Ending of Attack on Titan

Warning: The following article contains major spoilers for the series “Attack on Titan.”

“Attack on Titan,” created by Hajime Isayama, has captivated fans worldwide with its dark and thrilling narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. Since its inception, the series has been praised for its complex characters, unpredictable plot twists, and deep exploration of themes such as power, morality, and freedom. However, as the series came to its conclusion, the ending left many fans divided and questioning the direction in which the story ultimately went.

In the final chapters of “Attack on Titan,” we witness the culmination of Eren Yeager’s plan to eradicate the Titans by unleashing the immense power of the Founding Titan, utilizing the power of the full Rumbling. This results in the destruction of countless cities and the deaths of millions of innocent people. Many fans were taken aback by the extreme measures Eren resorted to, causing a rift in the once united fanbase.

One of the central themes of the series has always been the concept of freedom. The Eldians, who possess the ability to transform into Titans, were oppressed by the Marleyan government and discriminated against by the rest of society. Eren and his companions’ ultimate goal was to free their people from the yoke of oppression and regain their freedom. However, Eren’s actions and the consequences they brought about heavily challenged the morality of his mission.

The controversial aspect of the ending lies in the ambivalent stance the author takes towards Eren’s actions. On one hand, the audience sympathizes with the suffering the Eldians endured and understands the characters’ motivations for seeking freedom. On the other hand, the immense loss of innocent lives caused by the Rumbling raises philosophical questions about the moral implications of achieving freedom through such means.

Furthermore, the narrative took an unexpected turn by revealing that Eren’s plan was not solely motivated by the pursuit of freedom. It is revealed that he manipulated events throughout the story, including his own father’s actions, to ensure that he would be born and carry out the Rumbling. This revelation sparked debates about whether Eren’s character development had been consistent or if it undermined the story’s overall impact.

Another point of contention among fans was the conclusion of the love triangle involving Eren, Mikasa Ackerman, and Historia Reiss. Mikasa, who had always harbored romantic feelings for Eren, was left heartbroken as Eren confessed that his affection for her had been nothing more than a lie. Instead, he urged her to “forget about him” and move on with her life. This resolution was met with mixed reactions, with some fans feeling unsatisfied with the lack of closure for Mikasa’s character.

In contrast, Historia’s character arc also left fans with unanswered questions. As the new queen, she was expected to play a significant role in the story’s resolution. However, her character was largely sidelined, prompting fans to speculate about unresolved plotlines and the potential for missed opportunities in exploring her character further.

Despite the division among fans regarding the ending, it is undeniable that “Attack on Titan” has made a profound impact on the anime and manga industry. The series challenged conventional storytelling norms and delved into complex themes that resonate with audiences worldwide. While the ending may not have satisfied everyone, it has sparked discussions and debates that continue long after the final pages were turned.

In conclusion, the ending of “Attack on Titan” explores complex themes, morality, and the pursuit of freedom. The extreme actions taken by the main protagonist, Eren Yeager, left fans divided and questioning the direction of the story. The resolution of romantic relationships and the lack of closure for certain characters also contributed to the mixed reactions. Nonetheless, the ending continues to fuel discussions and showcases the lasting impact of the series on the world of anime and manga.