Attack on Titan, the widely praised manga and anime series by Hajime Isayama, is a remarkable feat in storytelling. With multiple volumes and seasons, it tells a gripping story of survival, self-discovery, and the unwavering quest for freedom.
Christa Lenz, first introduced as Historia Reiss, plays a vital role in the evolving narrative. As the story unfolds, her character undergoes a dramatic transformation - evolving from a mysterious figure in the background to a central figure during significant events that had a lasting impact on fans.
Christa Lenz: The new ruler within the walls in Attack on Titan
Historia Reiss (Image via MAPPA)
After the Marley events, Historia became pregnant and remained in a secret location known only to a few within the military. Speculation among some Military Police officers suggested that Yelena may have influenced Historia's pregnancy out of wedlock. It was believed that the local individual who had bullied Historia during her childhood may have intentionally delayed Historia from inheriting the Beast Titan from Zeke Yeager on Paradis.
Amidst the emergence of a rebellious faction, Commander Pixis ordered the military to secure Historia, recognizing her as a potential target. In the midst of the chaos of the Rumbling, Historia went into labor.
Eren discloses his plans for genocide to Historia (Image via MAPPA)
Ultimately, Eren met his end, and the Rumbling was stopped through the joint efforts of the Survey Corps and the Warriors. Despite enduring support for Eren among the Paradis population, Historia, using her influence, employed her authority to protect the families of the soldiers who had helped in stopping Eren. Over the next three years, Historia married the father of her child and engaged in peace negotiations with the outside world.
The role of Christa Lenz throughout the series
In 857, envoys from foreign lands were sent to Paradis for negotiations aimed at achieving peace. Historia, in a letter to the envoys, detailed how the Yeagerists had spent the last three years since Eren's death building up an army, in anticipation of potential aggression from outside adversaries.
Historia Reiss is depicted in the final season (Image via MAPPA)
Originally portrayed as a seemingly delicate and selfless character in Attack on Titan Season 2, her evolution into Historia Reiss embodies the series' examination of identity, selflessness, and the repercussions of the pursuit of authority. Her dynamic with Eren Yeager, the main character, and other key figures adds to the intricate network of relationships that define the series.
Christa's character is defined by her compassion and empathy, which she maintains despite the challenging circumstances she faces. Her kindness and care for others in a brutal and survival-driven world become a source of strength for her. Viewers deeply connect with her ability to understand and share the feelings of others in the face of impending disaster, elevating her to a place of moral importance within the story.
As the Attack on Titan series progresses, Christa's role expands beyond personal growth. Her involvement in larger political schemes and the truth about the Titans turns her into a symbol of hope and change. Her choices challenge the established order and contribute to the series' exploration of power dynamics, corruption, and the consequences of authoritarian rule.
Final thoughts
Historia Reiss during the second season (Image via MAPPA)
The conclusion of the Attack on Titan series leaves a lasting legacy for Christa Lenz, now known as Historia Reiss. Her character development mirrors the series' exploration of themes regarding the impact of identity on decision-making and the consequences of power, shedding light on the true nature of humanity.
Ultimately, Christa Lenz stands out as a powerful and influential figure in Attack on Titan, contributing to the series' status as a modern masterpiece in the world of manga and anime.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the fate of Christa Lenz in Attack on Titan. On the one hand, I am glad that she was able to survive the Rumbling and become the new ruler of Paradis. She is a strong and compassionate character, and I believe that she will be a good leader. On the other hand, I am sad that she had to go through so much pain and suffering to get to this point. She lost her mother, her father, and her friends. She was also forced to become a Titan and to kill her own father. I hope that she will be able to find peace and happiness in her new role.
Overall, I think that Christa Lenz's story is a powerful one of redemption and hope. She is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light. She is also a reminder that we should never give up on our dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.