Uncovering Hidden Clues in Attack on Titan's Finale

On the night of November 4th, fans bid farewell to Attack on Titan as its last episode aired. After a decade of following their favorite series, viewers finally received the ultimate conclusion. Thanks to Hajime Isayama's involvement in the anime adaptation, we can confidently say that everything in the final episode is part of the official storyline.

Taking a closer look at the symbolism and pacing of the episode, we can objectively observe certain key elements. Mikasa's response reflects the butterfly effect, the timeline in the cabin, and Eren's strong connection to birds. Additionally, Linked Horizon's release of "The Last Titan" for the final episode completes the music narrative in a satisfying full circle.

The Future is Inevitable

Eren and Mikasa in cabin - The Future is Inevitable

The concept of time in Attack on Titan is explored in a fascinating way. Paths presents an alternate reality where time moves quickly, while alternate timelines are witnessed when Eren speaks to Mikasa. Despite having various options, the Eren in the main timeline is fated to be killed by Mikasa. In the 2nd cour, Mikasa recalls her conversation with Eren about her feelings for him and wonders if honesty could have changed their fate.

As Mikasa prepares to confront Eren, he reveals an alternate reality to her. Eren had been visiting his friends through Paths using memory manipulation, but Ackermans like Mikasa cannot have their minds controlled. When Mikasa wakes up in the cabin timeline, she is experiencing something genuine. This is reinforced by Eren's dream of the future in Chapter 1.

mikasa's resolve - Though because Mikasa is living in the current "fixed" timeline with Eren, she can only peer into the alternate reality

Living in the current "fixed" timeline with Eren, Mikasa can only glimpse into an alternate reality. In that moment, Eren also peers into a different timeline and asks Mikasa to end his life, revealing his location in the Titan's mouth. By not confessing her feelings, Mikasa sealed the fate of The Rumbling, showing how small actions can have large consequences. If she had confessed, Eren might have chosen a different path, but in this timeline, that was not meant to be.

A Bird's Eye View

eren bird eyes - A Bird's Eye View

The Arrow Stained in Red

The Parasitic Jaeger is a real type of bird found in the Antarctic Region, closest to countries located on the European continent. What's more, they are also considered "seabirds" as well. Similar to the bird that tugged at Mikasa's scarf and shed its feathers for Armin, we also saw a scene where Eren is peering through the eyes of a bird during Armin's conversation with Annie on the boat. Fans assumed that the bird that appeared at the end was a seagull, when in fact it's very possible that it was a parasitic jaeger instead. Adding to this, rather than the bird being a symbol of freedom, Eren's connection to them could insulate that there is a correlation between Titans and animals - as we see Falco's Titan can sprout wings, and he has visions of flying - a bit like he too can see through birds.

eren shooting arrow - The Arrow Stained in Red

The first opening theme of Attack on Titan, "Guren no Yumiya" or "Crimson Bow and Arrow", initially held a mysterious meaning for fans. As the series concluded, the significance of this term evolved. In the episode "Akatsuki no Requiem", it represented The Rumbling, while in the final opening, "The Last Titan", it transformed into a real weapon that Eren wields. When Eren fires the arrow, it travels forward amidst flashbacks of his life and transforms into a bird, symbolizing the beginning of a new journey. This suggests that Eren was not dictating the future, but rather initiating the events that would unfold.

suzaku reference aot - In "Guren no Yumiya", it's referenced as a tool that will pierce its enemy

In "Guren no Yumiya", the crimson bow and arrow symbolize Eren's determination to pierce through his enemies. It represents his strong resolve to end the Titan's Curse. Additionally, the transformation of the arrow into a bird is a nod to Suzaku, the mythical fire bird often associated with rebirth and renewal.

Guren no Yumiya - Personality-wise, the creature represents reliance and passion - but can also be used as a symbol for "rebirth", depending on cultural interpretation

The creature symbolizes reliance and passion, and in some cultures, it can also signify "rebirth". For instance, in the Final Fantasy series, "phoenix down" is used to bring back fallen party members. By blending the timeloop theory and Eren's determination, Suzaku embodies the idea of persistence and starting anew, never losing hope.

eren bouta be rumbled-1 - As the bird takes off, Eren makes his move, but before he can land a blow, a Wall Titan stomps on him, insinuating that he too is a victim of The Rumbling

Eren tries to attack, but a Wall Titan crushes him before he can. This shows that even he is affected by The Rumbling. In the final moments of "The Last Titan", Mikasa steps in to defeat Eren's Titan, mirroring his earlier actions against the Colossal Titan. She takes on his role to break the Titan's Curse.

Death and Rebirth

historia monologue - Death and Rebirth

As Mikasa approaches Eren for the final time, Historia is seen giving birth. After his death, as Mikasa holds his head, it cuts to the former's daughter opening her eyes. Fans theorized once again that Eren was the father of Historia's daughter due to the timing and scene composition. However, it should be noted that Historia's daughter does not resemble Eren, and she seems content with The Farmer.

One possible reason for organizing the scene this way could be to dispel the idea that Eren was the father. Official material would also debunk this theory. Instead, the scene may represent the theme of rebirth through forgiveness. Historia forgave The Farmer, allowing her to move forward and start anew. The transition to the time skip, indicated by 3 candles on a birthday cake, flows smoothly from closed eyes to open ones for the scene and panel.

Although Eren was not the father, he did influence Historia's decisions. He visited her in Paths and shared his knowledge of the future, guiding her actions as Queen. Their connection was not through fatherhood, but rather through intertwined fates.

Did Mikasa Really Move On?

mikasa and jean maybe - Did Mikasa Really Move On?

In Paths, Eren admits to Armin that he has feelings for Mikasa and hopes she will always remember him, even if she moves on in the future. Some fans speculate that Eren may have asked Jean to look after Mikasa, as Jean is the only one who hasn't revealed Eren's message from Paths. In the end credits, Mikasa's husband's appearance is similar to Jean's, hinting that she may have started a new family with him.

This situation can be likened to the story of Titanic, where the main character loses her true love but eventually finds happiness with someone else. Jean understands he can never replace Eren, but out of genuine love for Mikasa, he steps in to support her. Although there isn't strong evidence to back this theory, it's comforting to think that Jean could be there for Mikasa as he wished.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the intricate symbolism and themes of the final episode of Attack on Titan, offering a nuanced analysis of the show's conclusion. It highlights the significance of time, the butterfly effect, and the interconnectedness of characters' actions. The symbolism of birds, the crimson bow and arrow, and the phoenix represent the themes of rebirth, renewal, and the inevitability of fate.

While the article provides a comprehensive overview of the episode's details, it also leaves room for interpretation and speculation. The ambiguity surrounding Mikasa's future and the identity of her husband adds a layer of intrigue to the show's ending. Ultimately, the article succeeds in capturing the emotional weight and thought-provoking nature of Attack on Titan's final installment.