Eren Yeager’s basement, a location shrouded in mystery and the key to understanding the truth behind the Titans, is finally discovered in episode 21 of season 3, aptly titled “Attack Titan.” This pivotal moment marks a dramatic shift in the narrative, ushering in a new era of understanding for the Scouts and forever changing their perception of the world.
The Significance of the Basement
The discovery of Eren’s basement represents far more than just a physical location. It’s the culmination of years of struggle, sacrifice, and unwavering determination on the part of the Scout Regiment. It’s the point where the lies spun within the walls begin to unravel, exposing the painful reality of Eldia’s history and its connection to the outside world. The contents within the basement act as a catalyst, propelling the storyline into its final, action-packed chapters.
Beyond the Walls: A New Perspective
The documents and photographs found within the basement reveal that humanity exists outside the walls, flourishing in a technologically advanced world. This revelation shatters the established worldview of the citizens within the walls, who had long believed they were the last remnants of humanity, besieged by mindless, man-eating Titans. The existence of a larger world, complete with nations and political conflicts, adds layers of complexity to the already intricate narrative, prompting a reevaluation of everything they thought they knew.
Grisha Yeager’s Deception and Truth
Furthermore, the basement unveils the truth about Eren’s father, Grisha Yeager. He is revealed to be an Eldian Restorationist from the mainland, sent to Paradis Island to retrieve the Founding Titan. Grisha’s motives, his past, and his role in the events that led to the fall of Wall Maria are finally brought to light, painting a complex portrait of a man driven by conflicting loyalties and a desperate desire to restore Eldia’s glory. This provides critical context for Eren’s own actions and motivations, adding depth to his character and highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and hatred.
What Was Found in the Basement?
The basement held a collection of crucial documents and equipment, but the most impactful discovery was Grisha Yeager’s journals. These journals detailed his life outside the walls, his involvement with the Eldian Restorationists, and the events that led him to steal the Founding Titan and come to Paradis Island. The photographs also provided concrete evidence of the outside world, showcasing its technological advancements and diverse cultures. This visual confirmation was essential in convincing the remaining Scouts of the truth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the discovery of Eren’s basement and its implications:
FAQ 1: How long did it take the Scouts to reach the basement after Wall Maria fell?
It took approximately four years for the Scouts to reach Eren’s basement after the fall of Wall Maria in the year 845. This reflects the immense challenges they faced, including constant Titan attacks, internal political conflicts, and the need to rebuild their military strength.
FAQ 2: What specific event allowed the Scouts to finally reach Shiganshina District?
The retaking of Wall Maria was the crucial event that allowed the Scouts to finally reach Shiganshina District. This required a daring plan to plug the hole in the wall and eliminate the Titans within the district, clearing the path to Eren’s basement.
FAQ 3: Who was in Eren’s basement when they found it?
Eren, Mikasa, Armin, Levi, Hange, and Erwin were all present when they entered Eren’s basement. This core group of Scouts witnessed the discovery of the truth together, sharing the burden of this newfound knowledge.
FAQ 4: How did the information in the basement change the Scouts’ mission?
The information found in the basement completely redefined the Scouts’ mission. They went from believing their goal was to simply survive against the Titans to understanding that they were part of a larger conflict with the outside world. Their mission shifted from defense to offense, aiming to learn more about their enemies and potentially seek peace or retribution.
FAQ 5: Was there anything else of importance found besides the journals and photographs?
While the journals and photographs were the most significant finds, the basement also contained scientific equipment and research notes that provided further insight into Grisha Yeager’s work and his understanding of the Titans. These materials, although less immediately impactful than the journals, helped solidify the overall picture.
FAQ 6: How did the discovery of the basement affect Eren personally?
The discovery of the basement had a profound impact on Eren. Learning about his father’s past, the true nature of the Titans, and the existence of a world beyond the walls shattered his preconceived notions and instilled in him a burning desire for revenge against Marley. It also cemented his determination to fight for Eldia’s freedom, no matter the cost.
FAQ 7: Did everyone immediately believe the information found in the basement?
Initially, not everyone fully believed the information found in the basement. Some members of the government and the military remained skeptical, clinging to the established narrative. However, the overwhelming evidence presented in Grisha’s journals and photographs eventually convinced most of the truth.
FAQ 8: What were the immediate consequences of revealing the truth found in the basement to the public?
Revealing the truth to the public led to widespread chaos and confusion. Many people struggled to reconcile their beliefs with the newfound reality, leading to social unrest and political instability. The government also faced the challenge of managing the public’s reaction and preparing them for the potential threat from the outside world.
FAQ 9: How did the knowledge of the outside world impact the military strategy of Paradis Island?
The knowledge of the outside world drastically altered Paradis Island’s military strategy. They realized that their enemies were not just Titans but also the nations of the world, particularly Marley. This led to a focus on developing new technologies, improving their military capabilities, and seeking alliances to prepare for a potential war.
FAQ 10: What role did Zeke Yeager play in the overall story, connected to the information from the basement?
Zeke Yeager, Grisha’s first son and Eren’s half-brother, played a critical role in the story. His connection to Grisha and his own motivations for wanting to end the Titan curse became central to the conflict. The information from the basement provided crucial context for understanding Zeke’s actions and his complex relationship with Eren.
FAQ 11: Could the Scouts have reached the basement sooner?
While theoretically possible, reaching the basement sooner would have been incredibly difficult. The Scouts faced numerous obstacles, including the lack of information about the basement’s location, the constant threat of Titans, and internal political challenges. The timing of their arrival was largely dependent on their ability to overcome these hurdles.
FAQ 12: What is the lasting legacy of the discovery of Eren’s basement in Attack on Titan?
The discovery of Eren’s basement remains a pivotal moment in Attack on Titan. It marked the end of the first major arc and the beginning of a new, more complex phase of the story. It fundamentally changed the characters’ understanding of their world and set the stage for the dramatic events of the final seasons, impacting not only the narrative but also the characters’ individual trajectories and the overall themes explored in the series. The basement discovery continues to resonate with fans as a symbol of truth, revelation, and the power of uncovering hidden histories.