The Unspoken Depths of Attack on Titan

Diving Into the Philosophical Layers

Attack on Titan, known for its gripping storyline, delves deep into philosophical themes that shape the characters' ideologies and actions. Characters like Eren and Armin embody contrasting ideals, drawing inspiration from renowned philosophers like Machiavelli and Nietzsche. This complexity adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a simple battle between Titans and humans.

The existentialist philosophy in Attack on Titan is evident through Eren's journey. He grapples with questions of meaning and purpose, questioning the absurdity of life in a world overrun by Titans. Eren's desire for revenge against the Titans and his determination to protect humanity reflects his existential struggle to find meaning amidst chaos.

On the other hand, Armin's character represents a more optimistic approach to life. Drawing inspiration from Nietzsche's concept of the "will to power," Armin embraces the present moment and takes action to protect his friends and humanity. His growth from a timid and unsure individual to a confident and strategic thinker showcases the power of personal agency in shaping one's destiny.

The influence of Machiavellianism is seen through Eren's ruthless and pragmatic approach. He is willing to sacrifice anything, even innocent lives, to achieve his goals of protecting humanity. This reflects the principles of political realism, where the end justifies the means. Eren's actions raise ethical and moral questions, challenging the viewers' own beliefs and values.

The series also explores utilitarianism through characters like Erwin Smith and Hange Zoë. They prioritize the greater good and make decisions that may involve sacrificing individuals for the benefit of humanity as a whole. This utilitarian perspective adds complexity to the characters' motivations and forces viewers to question the ethics of their choices.

The presence of nihilism is embodied by the Titans themselves. These monstrous creatures represent the ultimate symbol of meaninglessness and despair. The constant threat they pose challenges the characters' beliefs and values, forcing them to confront the harsh reality of their existence.

By incorporating these philosophical themes, Attack on Titan elevates itself from a simple battle between Titans and humans to a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, morality, and the complexities of life.

The Evolution of Character Progression

The character progression in Attack on Titan is a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations. Eren's existential journey and Armin's embrace of the present showcase the internal struggles and growth of the protagonists. Each decision and action reflects their philosophical beliefs, leading to unexpected twists and turns in the storyline.

Eren's character development is a prime example of the evolution of character progression in the series. Initially driven by revenge and fueled by anger, Eren's journey takes a complex turn as he grapples with the existential questions surrounding his existence. His transformation from a vengeful teenager to a more nuanced and conflicted individual showcases the depth and complexity of his character.

Armin's growth throughout the series is marked by his embrace of the present moment. Initially portrayed as a timid and unsure character, Armin evolves into a strategic and confident thinker. His philosophical shift towards embracing the present and taking action reflects his growth as a character and his ability to adapt to the challenges of the world they live in.

The series also explores the moral ambiguity of certain characters. Characters like Reiner Braun and Zeke Yeager, who were initially perceived as villains, undergo significant character progression as their motivations and complex identities are revealed. This moral ambiguity challenges the viewers' perception of good and evil and adds layers of depth to the storyline.

The psychological trauma experienced by the characters further contributes to their progression. The horrors of war and the loss of loved ones leave lasting scars on the characters, shaping their perspectives and motivations. These traumas add complexity to their character arcs and provide insight into their actions and decisions.

Embracing Life's Contradictions

Mikasa's character arc embodies a balance between the harsh realities of life and the beauty that can be found within it. Her acceptance of the past and commitment to living in the present highlight the overarching theme of acceptance and resilience. Through her journey, we see the importance of love, patience, and ultimately, letting go.

Despite the tragic events of her childhood, Mikasa learns to accept her past and find strength in her experiences. Her unwavering loyalty and love for Eren and her friends serve as a source of inspiration and resilience. Mikasa's character arc showcases the power of acceptance in overcoming adversity and finding purpose in life.

Mikasa's appreciation of the present is evident in her deep connections with her comrades. She finds solace and support in the bonds she forms with others, highlighting the importance of human connection and friendship in the face of adversity. Her ability to find beauty and joy in the midst of chaos adds depth to her character and provides a sense of hope in an otherwise bleak world.

The theme of letting go is embodied by Mikasa's ultimate sacrifice in the series finale. By letting go of her attachment to Eren and embracing the unknown, she symbolizes the importance of moving forward and embracing new beginnings. This act of selflessness and courage reinforces the message of resilience and the ability to find strength in the face of loss.

Through Mikasa's character arc, Attack on Titan explores the complexities of life and the importance of embracing its contradictions. Her journey serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is still beauty to be found and strength to be gained.