The final episode of Attack on Titan, officially titled “The Rumbling,” (Part 1) and “Toward the Tree” (Part 2), marked the culmination of a decade-long journey, bringing to a close the epic saga of Eren Yeager and the fate of humanity within and beyond the walls. It’s more than just an ending; it’s a meditation on war, freedom, and the cyclical nature of hatred, leaving viewers grappling with profound questions long after the credits roll.
The End of an Era: Dissecting the Final Episodes
The release of the Attack on Titan finale was a monumental event, eagerly anticipated by millions worldwide. These two episodes, acting as the concluding chapters of Season 4 Part 3, delivered a complex and emotionally charged resolution that both answered lingering questions and left room for interpretation. “The Rumbling” sets the stage, depicting the sheer scale of Eren’s genocidal ambition. “Toward the Tree” focuses on the final confrontation and the ramifications of Eren’s actions, exploring themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and the elusive pursuit of peace. The title “The Rumbling” aptly reflects the cataclysmic event unleashed by Eren, a force of nature intent on reshaping the world. “Toward the Tree,” on the other hand, carries a symbolic weight, representing both the origin of the Titan powers and the uncertain future humanity now faces. The final moments at the tree are poignant, hinting at the potential for history to repeat itself.
The Narrative Culmination: What Led to This Point?
Understanding the final episodes requires grasping the intricate web of events that preceded them. From the initial discovery of the Titans and the formation of the Survey Corps to the revelation of the world beyond the walls and the Eldian history, the series consistently subverted expectations. Eren’s transformation from a vengeful protagonist to a figure of immense power and questionable morality is central to the narrative’s complexity. The final season explores the moral ambiguities of war and the devastating consequences of prejudice and oppression. The truth about Marley and the Eldians, coupled with Eren’s growing disillusionment with the world, ultimately fueled his drastic decision to initiate The Rumbling. The alliance formed between the surviving members of the Survey Corps and Marleyan soldiers represents a desperate attempt to prevent global annihilation.
Thematic Resonance: More Than Just an Ending
The significance of the final episodes extends far beyond mere plot resolution. Attack on Titan has consistently grappled with weighty themes, and the ending amplifies these explorations. The series challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature, the futility of violence, and the cyclical nature of conflict. It asks whether true peace is ever attainable and whether the pursuit of freedom can justify extreme measures. The ending, while controversial, reinforces the show’s commitment to exploring these complex issues, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of unease and a call to reflect on their own perspectives. The series ultimately critiques the concept of “freedom” when it comes at the cost of countless lives. It prompts a discussion on collective responsibility and the choices we make as individuals and as a society.
Unpacking the FAQs: Addressing Common Queries
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the Attack on Titan finale, designed to clarify key plot points and thematic elements:
FAQ 1: What exactly was Eren’s goal with The Rumbling?
Eren’s stated goal was to eliminate all life outside of Paradis Island, thereby securing a future of freedom for his people. However, his true motivations were far more complex. He aimed to both destroy the world that threatened Paradis and force his friends to kill him, thus making them heroes in the eyes of the remaining world and ending the cycle of Titan power. This “false peace,” as some viewers call it, allowed a new era of potential understanding to begin.
FAQ 2: Why did Eren continue with The Rumbling even after realizing the devastation it would cause?
Eren believed that the survival of Paradis Island depended on the complete elimination of its enemies. He saw no other viable path to freedom and was willing to bear the burden of being seen as a monster to achieve his desired outcome. This is rooted in his perceived lack of choice. He has seen the future, and believes this is the only road to peace.
FAQ 3: How did the Alliance manage to stop Eren?
The Alliance, comprised of former enemies united against a common threat, managed to infiltrate the Founding Titan’s physical form. Through a series of coordinated attacks and sacrifices, they were able to reach Eren and sever his connection to the Founding Titan, ultimately ending The Rumbling. The power of friendship and sacrifice are pivotal here.
FAQ 4: What happened to the Titan powers at the end?
After Eren’s death, Ymir Fritz, the original Titan, seemingly released her hold on the Titan powers, effectively ending their existence. This signaled a potential end to the cycle of violence and oppression associated with the Titans. The symbolic erasure of the Titan powers represents the best hope for a lasting peace.
FAQ 5: What does the final scene with Mikasa laying Eren’s head under the tree mean?
This scene is a poignant callback to the series’ opening, highlighting the cyclical nature of time and the potential for history to repeat itself. It also signifies Mikasa’s enduring love and grief for Eren, solidifying her role as a key figure in the narrative’s conclusion. It is a sad but meaningful conclusion for a complex relationship.
FAQ 6: Did Armin and the others ultimately forgive Eren?
While the Alliance members deeply struggled with Eren’s actions, they ultimately understood the immense pressure and burden he carried. Armin, in particular, maintained a sense of empathy for Eren, recognizing the desperation behind his choices. Forgiveness is not explicitly stated, but understanding is implied.
FAQ 7: What happens to Paradis Island after the Rumbling?
While the Rumbling significantly reduced the global population, Paradis Island eventually faced the consequences of its actions. In the epilogue, it is shown being destroyed by war, implying that the cycle of violence continues. This demonstrates the futility of Eren’s actions and a damning indictment of the cyclical nature of conflict.
FAQ 8: What is the significance of the tree at the end, and what does the boy finding it suggest?
The tree represents the origin of the Titan powers, where Ymir Fritz first encountered the source of all living matter. The boy finding it suggests that the potential for the Titan powers to return exists, highlighting the enduring threat of history repeating itself. This reinforces the themes of cyclical violence.
FAQ 9: Was Eren’s choice inevitable, or could he have chosen a different path?
This is a central question that divides viewers. Eren’s perspective was that he was bound by fate and the visions he received, leaving him with no other option. However, others argue that he could have explored alternative solutions, even if they were more challenging. This debate about free will vs. determinism is central to the series’ philosophical underpinnings.
FAQ 10: How does the ending reflect the overall themes of Attack on Titan?
The ending encapsulates the show’s core themes of war, freedom, prejudice, and the cyclical nature of violence. It showcases the devastating consequences of hatred and the challenges of achieving true peace. The complexity of the ending forces viewers to grapple with uncomfortable truths about humanity.
FAQ 11: What is the significance of Ymir Fritz’s role in the ending?
Ymir Fritz’s story is central to understanding the origin and eventual end of the Titan powers. Her desire for freedom and her eventual release from the cycle of servitude are key to the narrative’s resolution. Her subconscious choices drove the narrative more than any other character.
FAQ 12: What is the overall message or takeaway from the Attack on Titan finale?
The Attack on Titan finale serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power, the futility of violence as a solution to complex problems, and the importance of empathy and understanding. It challenges viewers to critically examine their own beliefs and strive for a future where peace and reconciliation are prioritized over conflict and revenge. The message is complex, but ultimately points to the need to break the cycles of hate that plague humanity. The show highlights the difficulty and necessity of working toward a better future.