Armin Arlert inherits the power of the Colossal Titan in Season 3, Episode 18, titled “Midnight Sun.” This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in the story, solidifying Armin’s role as a crucial asset in the fight against the Titans.
The Significance of “Midnight Sun”
“Midnight Sun” is arguably one of the most emotionally charged and strategically vital episodes in the entire Attack on Titan series. It isn’t just about Armin inheriting the Colossal Titan; it’s about the agonizing decision of who would inherit it – Armin or Erwin Smith. The episode grapples with the weight of leadership, the value of strategic brilliance versus unwavering determination, and the enduring impact of choices made in the face of overwhelming adversity. The episode’s title itself alludes to the moral ambiguity and the darkness that shrouds the decision-making process.
The episode depicts the aftermath of the intense battle to reclaim Wall Maria. Both Armin and Erwin are on the brink of death. The Survey Corps possesses the Titan Serum, necessary to transform someone into a Pure Titan and subsequently devour Bertholdt Hoover, the current Colossal Titan holder, transferring his powers. The question becomes: who is more deserving, and who will be more effective in the long run?
The Debated Decision: Armin vs. Erwin
The conflict between Levi and Eren/Mikasa over who should receive the Titan Serum is central to the episode’s drama. Eren and Mikasa passionately argue for Armin, believing his strategic mind is essential for humanity’s survival. They cite Armin’s countless contributions to their victories, his ability to devise intricate plans, and his unwavering dedication to finding peaceful solutions.
Levi, initially inclined to revive Erwin – believing Erwin held the key to unraveling the mysteries of the basement and leading humanity to victory – ultimately changes his mind. He sees the weight of responsibility that has crushed Erwin, the burden of countless deaths, and the emptiness that now resides within him. He realizes that Erwin is, in a way, seeking rest. Choosing Armin is not just a strategic decision; it’s a compassionate one.
The Titan Injection Ceremony
The transformation process is brutal. Armin is injected with the Titan Serum, immediately transforming into a Pure Titan. In this mindless state, he devours Bertholdt Hoover, inheriting the power of the Colossal Titan. This act not only secures the Colossal Titan for humanity but also marks a permanent shift in Armin’s identity and his future role.
The Aftermath of the Inheritance
Armin’s acquisition of the Colossal Titan significantly alters the power dynamics within the story. He becomes a vital asset, capable of unleashing devastating attacks and strategically dismantling enemy defenses. However, this power comes at a cost. Armin must grapple with the memories and experiences of Bertholdt, adding another layer of complexity to his character.
Armin’s Control Over the Colossal Titan
While possessing the immense power of the Colossal Titan, Armin struggles with controlling it initially. The immense heat generated during transformations and attacks poses a significant risk to himself and his allies. Over time, he learns to harness the power more effectively, becoming a formidable force on the battlefield. His strategic mind, combined with the Colossal Titan’s capabilities, makes him a truly dangerous opponent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Armin and the Colossal Titan
Q1: Why was Armin chosen over Erwin to inherit the Colossal Titan?
Armin was chosen primarily for his strategic brilliance and his unwavering dedication to finding peaceful solutions. While Erwin was a charismatic leader, Levi recognized that he was exhausted and burdened by the weight of his past decisions. Armin, on the other hand, offered a fresh perspective and the potential to lead humanity towards a brighter future. Moreover, Eren and Mikasa’s fervent plea highlighting Armin’s crucial plans throughout their journey played a significant role in swaying Levi’s decision.
Q2: What are the powers of the Colossal Titan?
The Colossal Titan’s primary power is its immense size (60 meters) and the ability to generate massive amounts of heat during transformations. This heat can be used offensively, causing widespread destruction, or defensively, preventing enemies from approaching. It also possesses immense strength and durability, making it a formidable opponent in close combat.
Q3: How did Armin eat Bertholdt to gain the Colossal Titan’s power?
Armin, transformed into a Pure Titan by the Titan Serum, instinctively sought out a Titan shifter to devour. As Bertholdt was the current Colossal Titan holder, Armin targeted him and consumed him, thereby inheriting his Titan powers. This is the standard method for transferring Titan abilities.
Q4: Did Armin retain his memories after becoming the Colossal Titan?
Yes, Armin retained his memories and personality after inheriting the Colossal Titan. However, he also gained access to some of Bertholdt’s memories and experiences, creating internal conflict and adding complexity to his character.
Q5: How did Armin learn to control the Colossal Titan?
Controlling the Colossal Titan was a gradual process. Through extensive training and experimentation, Armin learned to manage the immense heat generated during transformations and to harness the Titan’s power effectively. He also relied on his strategic mind to maximize the Titan’s potential on the battlefield.
Q6: What impact did inheriting the Colossal Titan have on Armin’s personality?
Inheriting the Colossal Titan had a profound impact on Armin’s personality. While he remained dedicated to his friends and his cause, he became more cautious and aware of the immense power he wielded. He also grappled with the memories and experiences of Bertholdt, leading to internal conflicts and moments of introspection.
Q7: How did Eren feel about Armin inheriting the Colossal Titan?
Initially, Eren was wholeheartedly in favor of Armin inheriting the Colossal Titan. He believed Armin’s strategic brilliance was essential for their survival. However, as the story progresses, Eren’s own motivations and perspectives shift, leading to a more complex relationship with Armin and his Titan powers.
Q8: Did Armin ever regret inheriting the Colossal Titan?
There are moments when Armin questions the choices made and the consequences of inheriting the Colossal Titan. The immense power and the burden of Bertholdt’s memories weigh heavily on him. However, he ultimately accepts his responsibility and uses his power to protect his friends and fight for humanity.
Q9: What role does the Colossal Titan play in the later seasons of Attack on Titan?
The Colossal Titan plays a crucial role in the later seasons of Attack on Titan. Armin utilizes its power in strategic attacks, defense operations, and confrontations with other Titan shifters. His understanding of the Titan’s abilities, combined with his strategic mind, makes him a formidable force in the global conflict.
Q10: How does the Colossal Titan’s heat generation affect Armin?
The heat generated during transformations can be incredibly dangerous to Armin. If not controlled properly, it can cause severe burns and even death. He must carefully manage his transformations to minimize the risk of self-harm and collateral damage.
Q11: Is Armin the strongest Titan shifter after inheriting the Colossal Titan?
While the Colossal Titan possesses immense destructive power, judging the “strongest” Titan shifter is subjective. Each Titan has unique abilities and weaknesses. Eren’s Attack Titan, with its evolving powers and the ability to see the future, also presents a formidable threat. The “strength” of a Titan shifter ultimately depends on the situation and the individual’s ability to utilize their powers effectively.
Q12: What is the ultimate fate of Armin and the Colossal Titan?
Without delving into spoiler territory, Armin and the Colossal Titan play a pivotal role in the final resolution of the conflict in Attack on Titan. His strategic contributions and willingness to make difficult choices are instrumental in shaping the fate of humanity and the future of the world. The ending is complex and debated, but Armin’s significance remains undeniable.