Commander Erwin Smith, a pivotal figure in Attack on Titan, meets his end in the heart-wrenching episode “Hero” (Season 3, Episode 17). His death is a monumental turning point for the Survey Corps and humanity’s fight against the Titans.
The Weight of Leadership: Erwin’s Final Stand
Erwin Smith wasn’t just a commander; he was an embodiment of hope, a master strategist, and a leader who inspired unwavering loyalty. His death, therefore, resonated deeply with viewers, marking a significant shift in the dynamic of the Survey Corps. Understanding the context surrounding his demise is crucial to appreciating the gravity of the moment and its lasting impact on the narrative.
The circumstances leading to Erwin’s death involved a desperate gamble to reclaim Wall Maria, the innermost wall breached years prior. Facing the Beast Titan, and a horde of other Titans, Erwin orchestrated a suicide charge. This wasn’t a reckless act, but a calculated maneuver. He understood that only a diversion, however costly, could create an opening for Levi Ackerman to eliminate the Beast Titan.
Erwin’s final moments are filled with quiet resignation and a poignant acceptance of his fate. He realizes the dream of discovering the truth of the outside world will never be realized. He chooses to sacrifice himself, and the lives of his remaining soldiers, for the chance to defeat the Beast Titan and secure a future for humanity. This decision, agonizing as it is, showcases the immense burden he carried as Commander.
The Moral Quandary: Erwin vs. Armin
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Erwin’s death revolves around the choice between saving him and Armin Arlert. Both sustained near-fatal injuries during the battle. Armin, gravely burned after confronting the Colossal Titan, was equally vital to the future. Levi, possessing the Titan serum, faced the impossible decision of who to inject.
The ensuing debate between Eren and Mikasa (who fiercely advocated for Armin) and Levi, highlights the ethical complexities inherent in wartime. Was it more prudent to resurrect the brilliant tactician Erwin, or the strategically gifted and intellectually curious Armin? This dilemma underscores the immense pressure and responsibility Levi shoulders.
Ultimately, Levi chose to inject Armin, believing that his potential to explore and understand the world beyond the walls outweighed Erwin’s tactical prowess in the present conflict. This decision, while contentious, shaped the future trajectory of the story, setting Armin on a path to unlock the mysteries of the Titans and the outside world.
The Legacy of Erwin Smith
Erwin’s death, although tragic, cemented his place as a legend within the Attack on Titan universe. His strategic genius, unwavering resolve, and inspirational leadership paved the way for future victories. He represents the sacrifices necessary for progress, and the difficult choices leaders must make in the face of overwhelming odds.
His impact extends beyond the immediate battle. His teachings and the values he instilled in his subordinates continued to guide their actions long after his passing. Erwin’s vision of a world free from the Titans’ tyranny lived on through those he inspired, serving as a constant reminder of the ultimate goal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: When exactly does Erwin die in the manga?
Erwin’s death is depicted in Chapter 84 of the Attack on Titan manga. This corresponds to Episode 17 of Season 3, Part 2 of the anime. The manga provides a more detailed visual representation of the events leading up to his demise and the immediate aftermath.
H3: What was Erwin’s dream that he never achieved?
Erwin’s lifelong dream was to uncover the truth about the outside world, particularly the secrets hidden within his father’s basement. This quest was fueled by his father’s forbidden research into history prior to the Titans’ arrival. He wanted to prove his father’s theories correct and understand the world as it truly was.
H3: Why was Erwin considered such a good commander?
Erwin possessed exceptional strategic thinking, unwavering determination, and the ability to inspire unwavering loyalty in his soldiers. He was a master of deception and manipulation, always willing to make difficult choices for the greater good. His charisma and tactical brilliance made him an unparalleled leader.
H3: What specific Titan powers did Armin acquire after being injected?
After being injected with the Titan serum, Armin inherited the powers of the Colossal Titan, previously held by Bertholdt Hoover. This transformation granted him immense size, strength, and the ability to emit extreme heat in bursts, a devastating weapon against other Titans.
H3: How did Levi obtain the Titan serum?
The Titan serum was entrusted to Levi by Kenny Ackerman, his uncle and a member of the Military Police’s Anti-Personnel Control Squad. Kenny, on his deathbed, realized the futility of his own ambitions and gave Levi the serum, urging him to use it wisely.
H3: What were Erwin’s last words?
Erwin’s final words, as he charged towards the Beast Titan, are a chilling echo of his dedication to his mission. He shouts the battle cry of the Survey Corps, rallying his troops for one last, desperate push: “Advance!”
H3: Did Erwin know he was likely going to die in the charge against the Beast Titan?
Yes, Erwin was fully aware that the charge was essentially a suicide mission. He deliberately orchestrated the plan, understanding that it was the only way to create an opening for Levi to defeat the Beast Titan. He accepted his fate, sacrificing himself for the sake of humanity.
H3: How did Erwin’s death impact Levi?
Erwin’s death profoundly affected Levi. He had always looked up to Erwin as a mentor and trusted his judgment implicitly. The burden of choosing between Erwin and Armin weighed heavily on him, and Erwin’s passing left a void in his life. He honored Erwin’s memory by continuing the fight against the Titans.
H3: What was the significance of the basement reveal after Erwin’s death?
The basement reveal, occurring shortly after Erwin’s death, validated his lifelong quest and confirmed his father’s theories about the outside world. It exposed the true history of humanity and the Titans, unveiling a reality far more complex and disturbing than anyone could have imagined. This reveal dramatically shifted the narrative and set the stage for the final conflict.
H3: Was Erwin a truly good person, given his methods?
Erwin’s morality is complex and often debated. He was willing to sacrifice countless lives for the sake of his goals, and his methods were often ruthless. However, he believed that these sacrifices were necessary for the survival of humanity. Whether he was a “good” person is a matter of perspective and depends on one’s definition of morality in a world facing existential threats.
H3: What would the story have been like if Erwin had survived instead of Armin?
If Erwin had survived, the story’s trajectory would have been significantly different. He would likely have continued to lead the Survey Corps with his tactical brilliance, but without Armin’s intellectual curiosity and strategic insights into the Titans themselves, the alliance might have struggled to understand the true nature of their enemy.
H3: What episode does Armin become the Colossal Titan?
Armin transforms into the Colossal Titan in Season 3, Episode 18, titled “Midnight Sun.” This transformation marks a pivotal moment as Armin takes on the immense power and responsibility previously held by Bertholdt Hoover.