Eren Yeager obtains the power of the Warhammer Titan in Episode 75, “Above and Below,” which is the sixth episode of Attack on Titan: The Final Season, Part 2. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the series, solidifying Eren’s path towards total annihilation and significantly altering the balance of power within the Attack on Titan universe.
The Significance of Episode 75: “Above and Below”
Episode 75 is not merely about Eren obtaining the Warhammer Titan; it’s a culmination of strategies, betrayals, and devastating loss. The raid on Liberio, planned by Eren and the Survey Corps, reaches its chaotic climax. The episode showcases the brutal realities of war and the irreversible consequences of Eren’s actions. The acquisition itself is a gruesome display of Eren’s evolving ruthlessness and determination to achieve his goals, however controversial they may be.
Key Events Leading to the Acquisition
Before Eren can claim the Warhammer Titan, he faces significant opposition. Willy Tybur’s declaration of war against Paradis Island sets the stage for the battle, while the combined forces of the Marleyan military pose a formidable threat.
- Willy Tybur’s Declaration: This public address solidifies the world’s alliance against Paradis, justifying Eren’s attack as a preemptive strike.
- The Survey Corps’ Assault: The meticulous planning and execution of the raid are crucial to isolating and weakening the Warhammer Titan.
- The Intervention of the Jaw Titan: Porco Galliard, the Jaw Titan, poses a significant obstacle, repeatedly attempting to stop Eren from reaching the Warhammer crystal.
- Mikasa’s Strategic Assistance: Mikasa’s tactical prowess and unwavering support are instrumental in creating opportunities for Eren to overcome the Jaw Titan.
The Gruesome Reality of the Acquisition
The actual acquisition of the Warhammer Titan power is anything but clean. Eren discovers that the Warhammer Titan’s user, Lara Tybur, is encased within a hardened crystal deep underground. He initially attempts to break the crystal, but quickly realizes it’s impenetrable using conventional methods.
Using the Jaw Titan as a tool, Eren systematically uses the Jaw Titan’s powerful bite to crack and destroy the crystal housing Lara Tybur. This process is depicted graphically, highlighting the violence and desperation inherent in Eren’s actions. After breaking the crystal, Eren consumes Lara Tybur, inheriting the power of the Warhammer Titan. The scene underscores the brutal reality of acquiring Titan powers – a necessary evil, in Eren’s eyes, for the survival of Paradis Island.
FAQs: Deep Diving into Eren and the Warhammer Titan
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Eren’s acquisition of the Warhammer Titan, providing further context and understanding of the event’s implications.
1. What exactly is the Warhammer Titan’s power?
The Warhammer Titan possesses the unique ability to create structures and weapons from hardened Titan matter. These creations can range from spikes and hammers to entire buildings, offering immense versatility in both offense and defense. Lara Tybur demonstrated exceptional control over this power, creating complex structures and even using the hardening ability to encase herself.
2. How did Eren know where Lara Tybur was hidden?
Eren, through his connection to the Founding Titan and the memories he’s accessed, likely had some insight into the Tybur family’s plans and the location of the Warhammer Titan. While not explicitly shown, the series heavily implies that Eren strategically orchestrated the raid with this knowledge in mind. His precise targeting of the underground chamber strongly suggests prior knowledge.
3. Why did Eren need the Jaw Titan to break the Warhammer’s crystal?
The Warhammer Titan’s crystal is incredibly durable. Eren’s Titan form, even with its considerable strength, couldn’t break through it. The Jaw Titan’s claws and teeth are specifically designed for penetrating tough defenses, making it the ideal tool for cracking the crystal. This showcases the strategic planning involved in the raid.
4. What made the Warhammer Titan such a valuable asset?
The Warhammer Titan’s unique abilities offered Eren and Paradis a significant advantage. The hardening capabilities could be used to create impenetrable defenses, while the ability to conjure weapons provided a powerful offensive tool. This power also added another layer of complexity to Eren’s abilities, making him even more formidable.
5. Did Eren fully master the Warhammer Titan’s abilities right away?
No. While Eren initially utilized the Warhammer Titan’s hardening abilities, he struggled to fully control its complex functionalities. It took time and practice for him to effectively wield the Titan’s full potential. This is a common theme in Attack on Titan; Titan abilities are not immediately mastered upon acquisition.
6. What impact did acquiring the Warhammer Titan have on Eren’s personality?
The acquisition of the Warhammer Titan seemingly further hardened Eren’s resolve and deepened his commitment to his goals, regardless of the cost. The act of consuming Lara Tybur, along with the memories he inherited, likely reinforced his belief in the necessity of his actions, contributing to his increasingly radical behavior.
7. How did the other members of the Survey Corps react to Eren obtaining the Warhammer Titan?
The Survey Corps had mixed reactions. Some, like Mikasa and Armin, remained loyal but were increasingly concerned about Eren’s growing ruthlessness and the path he was taking. Others, like Jean and Connie, grappled with the moral implications of Eren’s actions and the escalating violence.
8. Was Lara Tybur aware of Eren’s plan to steal the Warhammer Titan?
While Lara likely anticipated an attack, it’s unlikely she knew the specifics of Eren’s plan. Her preparedness and defensive measures suggest she was aware of the risks, but Eren’s strategic use of the Survey Corps and the Jaw Titan caught her off guard.
9. How did the acquisition of the Warhammer Titan affect the power balance between Paradis and Marley?
Eren acquiring the Warhammer Titan significantly shifted the power balance. Paradis gained a powerful weapon, but also further antagonized the world. This event fueled the global alliance against Paradis, ultimately leading to even greater conflict and destruction.
10. What specific scenes in Episode 75 best illustrate the importance of the Warhammer Titan’s acquisition?
Several scenes stand out. The destruction of the crystal by the Jaw Titan showcases the lengths Eren is willing to go to. The horrified expressions of onlookers highlight the brutality of the act. And Eren’s initial attempts to wield the Warhammer’s power, followed by his successful hardening, demonstrate the immediate impact of the acquisition.
11. Did other Titan shifters attempt to stop Eren from acquiring the Warhammer Titan?
Yes. Porco Galliard, the Jaw Titan, was the primary obstacle. He repeatedly attacked Eren, attempting to prevent him from reaching Lara Tybur. His failure to stop Eren underscores Eren’s determination and the Survey Corps’ strategic advantage.
12. What ultimately became of the Warhammer Titan’s power after Eren’s death?
After Eren’s death, the power of the Titans was seemingly erased from the world. The inheritable Titans ceased to exist, and the curse of Ymir was broken. Therefore, the Warhammer Titan’s power vanished along with Eren and the other Titan shifters.
By understanding the events of Episode 75 and the ramifications of Eren’s acquisition of the Warhammer Titan, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex themes of war, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom that define Attack on Titan. This pivotal episode marks a turning point in the story, propelling the narrative towards its devastating conclusion.