The Rumbling, the apocalyptic march of colossal Titans, is arguably the most devastating and impactful event in Attack on Titan. The pivotal episode showcasing the initiation of this event, setting the stage for the final conflict, is episode 87, titled “The Dawn of Humanity,” which concludes Season 4, Part 2.
The Dawn of Humanity: A Cataclysmic Revelation
Episode 87, “The Dawn of Humanity,” is not just the start of the Rumbling; it’s a culmination of years of political intrigue, historical revelation, and character development. The episode meticulously builds suspense, culminating in Eren Yeager’s activation of the Founding Titan’s power and his declaration of war against the world outside Paradis Island. The chilling visuals of countless Colossal Titans emerging from the walls, their earth-shattering footsteps creating the Rumbling, solidify this episode as a critical turning point in the series. The sheer scale of destruction unleashed, coupled with Eren’s unwavering resolve, leaves the audience reeling and sets the stage for the final act.
Understanding the Rumbling’s Significance
The Rumbling represents more than just physical destruction; it embodies the complex themes of revenge, freedom, and the cycle of hatred explored throughout Attack on Titan. Understanding the motivations behind Eren’s drastic actions and the consequences of the Rumbling is essential to fully grasping the series’ narrative arc. The devastation serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of unchecked power and the ethical dilemmas faced when seeking survival in a world consumed by conflict.
Unpacking the Key Events in Episode 87
Beyond the visual spectacle of the Colossal Titans, episode 87 is packed with significant plot developments. These include:
Eren’s Transformation and Declaration
Eren’s transformation into his colossal Founding Titan form marks a complete shift in his character and his relationship with his friends. His broadcast to all Eldians, declaring his intent to eradicate all life outside the walls, solidifies his role as an antagonist, forcing his former allies to confront him.
The Reactions of the Survey Corps
The Survey Corps, including Mikasa, Armin, and the remaining members, grapple with the shocking realization that Eren has become the very monster they swore to fight against. Their internal conflicts and moral dilemmas become central to the narrative as they struggle to decide what action to take.
World’s Initial Response
The initial scenes showcasing the world’s reaction to the Rumbling highlight the terror and helplessness experienced by those facing the impending doom. The episode effectively portrays the scale of the catastrophe and its impact on global society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Rumbling
Here are some frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding of the Rumbling and its context within Attack on Titan:
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What is the Rumbling exactly? The Rumbling, also known as the “Earth-Shaking,” is the mass mobilization of Colossal Titans within the walls of Paradis Island. By using the Founding Titan’s power, Eren Yeager commanded these Titans to march across the world, crushing everything in their path.
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Why did Eren initiate the Rumbling? Eren’s motives are complex and debated throughout the series. Primarily, he believed that the Rumbling was the only way to protect Paradis Island and its Eldian inhabitants from the rest of the world, which he perceived as a constant threat. He aimed to eliminate all external threats to ensure the future survival of his people.
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How powerful is the Rumbling? The Rumbling is an incredibly powerful force, capable of destroying entire nations and wiping out significant portions of the world’s population. The sheer number of Colossal Titans makes them nearly unstoppable, leaving little hope for resistance.
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What are the weaknesses of the Rumbling? While immensely powerful, the Rumbling isn’t entirely invulnerable. Stopping Eren, who controls the Titans, is the primary weakness. Destroying the nape of each Titan is another, though practically impossible due to their sheer number and size.
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Who opposes the Rumbling? The main opposition to the Rumbling comes from the remnants of the Survey Corps, including Mikasa, Armin, Levi, and other characters who once fought alongside Eren. They are joined by members of the Marleyan military, who recognize the threat to humanity posed by Eren’s actions.
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What happens after the Rumbling begins? The series shifts its focus to the alliance formed between the Survey Corps and Marleyans, who embark on a perilous mission to stop Eren and prevent the complete annihilation of the outside world. Their journey involves confronting Eren, navigating political complexities, and making difficult moral choices.
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Does the Rumbling succeed in wiping out the world? The extent of the Rumbling’s success and its final outcome are central to the latter part of the series. While significant damage is inflicted, the alliance’s efforts to stop Eren ultimately impact the course of events. The final scenes of the series explore the long-term consequences of these actions.
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How does the Founding Titan’s power enable the Rumbling? The Founding Titan possesses the ability to control all other Titans and alter the memories of Eldians. Eren uses this power to awaken the Colossal Titans within the walls and command them to march across the world, initiating the Rumbling.
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What are the ethical implications of the Rumbling? The Rumbling raises profound ethical questions about the justification of violence, the preservation of one’s own people at the expense of others, and the cycle of hatred that perpetuates conflict. It forces viewers to confront the complexities of morality in a world facing existential threats.
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How does the Rumbling relate to the themes of freedom and determinism in Attack on Titan? The Rumbling highlights the contrasting interpretations of freedom within the series. Eren believes he is fighting for the freedom of Paradis Island, even if it means sacrificing the freedom of others. The series also explores the concept of determinism, as characters grapple with the idea that their actions are predetermined by fate or historical events.
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Are there historical parallels to the Rumbling in real-world events? While fictional, the Rumbling can be interpreted as an allegory for historical instances of genocide, mass destruction, and the use of overwhelming force. It prompts viewers to consider the consequences of unchecked power and the dangers of dehumanizing entire populations.
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Is there a scene that depicts the full scale of the rumbling? Yes, several episodes following episode 87 showcase the devastating impact of the Rumbling on the world. These scenes depict the destruction of cities, the displacement of populations, and the sheer scale of the Colossal Titans marching across the landscape.
Conclusion
The Rumbling, initiated in episode 87, “The Dawn of Humanity,” is a watershed moment in Attack on Titan. It signifies the escalation of conflict, the moral complexities of war, and the devastating consequences of unchecked power. Understanding the events of this episode and the broader context of the Rumbling is crucial to appreciating the series’ profound themes and its enduring impact. The dawn of humanity, as depicted in this episode, is tragically intertwined with the twilight of civilization, making it a truly unforgettable and thought-provoking part of the Attack on Titan narrative.