The last episode of Attack on Titan, “Toward the Tree on That Hill,” concludes the epic saga by showcasing the definitive end of the Titan curse and the aftermath of Eren Yeager’s actions, revealing the complex motivations behind his world-altering choices. It focuses heavily on the emotional fallout experienced by the surviving members of the Scout Regiment as they grapple with the cost of peace and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
A Brutal Peace: The End of the Rumbling and Its Consequences
The core of the final episode revolves around the aftermath of the Rumbling. Eren, ultimately stopped by his former comrades, reveals his true intentions during the final confrontation within the Paths. He explains that his goal was not merely to protect Paradis, but to force his friends into the role of heroes, thereby ensuring that the world would not completely eradicate the Eldian people. This revelation is jarring and deeply unsettling for Mikasa, Armin, and the rest of the group.
The episode doesn’t shy away from depicting the stark reality of the situation. While the Rumbling’s halt prevents complete global destruction, the damage inflicted is catastrophic. Infrastructure is shattered, populations are decimated, and the hatred towards Eldians, though potentially lessened, is far from eradicated. The surviving members of the alliance, now widely recognized as saviors, face the daunting task of navigating this precarious peace and advocating for the rights of the Eldian people.
The End of the Titan Power
The episode also brings about the complete eradication of the Titan power. With Eren’s death, the source of all Titans, the Hallucigenia connected to Ymir, ceases to exist. Every Titan, including Armin’s Colossal Titan and Annie’s Female Titan, reverts back to its human form, and the ability to transform into Titans is lost forever. This marks a profound turning point for the Eldian people, as they are no longer bound by the curse that has haunted them for centuries.
Mikasa’s Choice and Eren’s Burial
Perhaps the most emotionally resonant moment comes with Mikasa’s final decision. Driven by a complex mixture of love, grief, and duty, she ultimately kills Eren, ending the Rumbling and the source of the Titan power. The episode closes with Mikasa burying Eren under the tree on the hill where they used to rest, a poignant symbol of their shared history and the tragedy of their intertwined fates. The final scenes show Mikasa visiting Eren’s grave throughout her life, underscoring the enduring impact of his loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Attack on Titan’s Finale
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the final episode of Attack on Titan, answered in detail:
1. Why did Eren choose to enact the Rumbling?
Eren’s motivations are complex and contradictory. He claimed he wanted to protect Paradis Island, but his ultimate goal was to orchestrate a scenario where his friends would be seen as heroes, preventing the complete annihilation of the Eldian people. He saw no other way to ensure their survival, believing the world would eventually turn against them regardless. He also admits to being driven by a desire to see the scenery described in Armin’s book, showcasing a darker, more selfish motivation.
2. Did Eren truly have no other choice?
This is a central theme of the entire series. While Eren presents the Rumbling as the only option, the alliance members believe there were other paths, even if they were fraught with difficulty. They sought diplomacy and alternative solutions, but Eren consistently rejected them, convinced that the world would never accept the Eldians. This inherent conflict about free will and determinism is a core philosophical debate within the series.
3. What happened to the other Titan shifters after Eren’s death?
With the death of Eren and the destruction of the Hallucigenia, the Titan power ceased to exist. All Titan shifters, including Armin, Annie, Reiner, and Pieck, reverted back to their human forms permanently. They no longer possess the ability to transform. This marks the end of their burden and allows them to live relatively normal lives (albeit within the context of the post-Rumbling world).
4. What is the significance of Mikasa killing Eren?
Mikasa killing Eren is a profoundly symbolic act. It represents her breaking free from her Ackerman bloodline’s inherent programming to protect a host. She chooses to kill the one she loves to save the world and end the Titan curse, even though it causes her immense pain. This act of sacrifice underscores the depth of her love and her commitment to humanity’s survival.
5. How did Armin convince the world to trust the Eldians?
Armin, now regarded as a hero, uses his position and diplomatic skills to negotiate with other nations. He stresses the importance of understanding and reconciliation, highlighting the shared suffering caused by the Rumbling. However, the episode also implies that achieving lasting peace is a long and arduous process, and the future remains uncertain.
6. What happened to Paradis Island after the Rumbling?
While the immediate threat to Paradis is removed, the episode shows a later scene suggesting that Paradis Island is eventually destroyed in future conflicts. This implies that the cycle of violence and hatred continues, despite Eren’s efforts. It serves as a somber reminder that achieving true peace is an ongoing struggle.
7. Why did Eren show Armin the future?
Eren showed Armin the future memories as a way to explain his motivations and to prepare him for the role he would need to play in the aftermath of the Rumbling. By sharing these memories, Eren ensured that Armin understood the complexities of the situation and was equipped to navigate the challenges that lay ahead.
8. Was Eren truly acting of his own free will?
The episode raises questions about the extent to which Eren was truly acting of his own free will, considering he was influenced by future memories and potentially by the will of Ymir. It’s suggested that he was both a victim and a perpetrator, driven by forces beyond his complete control. This ambiguity adds a layer of complexity to his character and actions.
9. What is the significance of the tree on the hill where Eren is buried?
The tree on the hill is a powerful symbol of the series. It represents the connection to the original Titan power, as Ymir Fritz found the source of the Titan power in a similar tree. By burying Eren there, Mikasa acknowledges his role in the events that transpired and ensures his sacrifice is remembered. It also suggests a closure of sorts, returning him to the place where their story began.
10. Did the final episode satisfy fans of the series?
The reception to the final episode was mixed. Some fans appreciated the nuanced exploration of themes and the emotional closure provided for many characters. Others were disappointed by the ambiguous ending and felt that Eren’s motivations were not adequately explained. Ultimately, the satisfaction with the ending is subjective and depends on individual expectations.
11. What is the legacy of Eren Yeager?
Eren Yeager’s legacy is complex and controversial. He is remembered both as a savior and a destroyer. He is the one who ended the Titan curse and protected Paradis Island in the short term, but he also caused immense suffering and destruction. His actions sparked debate about the nature of freedom, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of violence.
12. What does the future hold for the surviving characters?
The future for the surviving characters is uncertain. They face the challenge of rebuilding a world ravaged by war and hatred. They must strive to promote peace and understanding, even in the face of adversity. The episode suggests that their journey is far from over, and they must continue to fight for a better future for all. The brief flash-forward to Paradis Island’s destruction implies this effort is ultimately futile, ending on a sombre note.