Known for many things, Attack on Titan is a series that is characterized by the high number of casualties. This manga and anime is filled with high stakes, often resulting in the deaths of characters in battle. Despite this, there are instances of characters surviving but enduring great suffering, with Levi Ackerman being a notable example of this.
Levi is undeniably one of the most beloved characters in Attack on Titan. His combat style frequently places him on the frontlines, leaving him vulnerable, which has proven to be costly for humanity's strongest soldier, as evidenced by the loss of his eye at one point in the story. The circumstances surrounding the loss of his eye and its significance to his character arc throughout the series are quite compelling.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Attack on Titan series.
Explaining how Levi lost his eye in the Attack on Titan series
Levi Ackerman lost his eye during the Return to Shiganshina arc in Attack on Titan, specifically in the battle against the Beast Titan. Zeke Yeager was hit by a Thunder Spear and chose to detonate himself along with Levi, who was near Eren's half-brother.
Levi suffered significant injuries after being hit by an explosion, with shrapnel getting stuck in some portions of his face, including his right eye. The wound served as a reminder of the suffering he endured in battle for his cause. As the series progressed, Levi continued to sustain more injuries, a result of always being on the frontline and taking the initiative. This realistic portrayal of a soldier's scars and loss is a major theme in Hajime Isayama's manga.
The themes and appeal of Levi's character
Levi Ackerman, as previously mentioned, is one of the most beloved characters in Attack on Titan. His stoic personality and impressive fighting abilities certainly contribute to his popularity, but the most compelling aspect of Levi's character is the role he plays in the story and how it is brought to life by creator Hajime Isayama.
The manga delves into the devastating impact of war and conflict, and Levi embodies the enduring soldier, the strongest among them. Despite his remarkable fighting prowess, his survival often comes at the cost of witnessing the death of his comrades, a powerful and tragic element that Isayama effectively explores throughout the series. This theme is perhaps one of the most underrated aspects of Isayama's storytelling.
Final thoughts
In the Attack on Titan series, Levi Ackerman suffered the loss of his eye during the events of the Return to Shiganshina arc. This occurred when he managed to catch Zeke Yeager, but Zeke ultimately detonated a Thunder Spear, causing an explosion that severely injured Levi, including causing shrapnel to damage his right eye.
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of Attack on Titan, I find Levi's eye injury to be a pivotal moment in the series that adds depth to his character and the overall narrative. The fact that Levi, despite being humanity's strongest soldier, is not immune to suffering and loss, makes him more relatable and human. His injury serves as a constant reminder of the harsh realities of war and the sacrifices that soldiers make. It also highlights the theme of survival and the toll it takes on individuals, both physically and emotionally.
Levi's injury also adds to the complexity of his character. Despite his stoic and reserved demeanor, he is not immune to pain and vulnerability. The loss of his eye symbolizes the emotional scars he carries from the countless battles he has fought and the comrades he has lost. It is a testament to Isayama's storytelling that even amidst the grand scale of the Titan conflict, he manages to weave in such poignant and personal moments that resonate with readers on a profound level.