Reiner Braun attempts suicide in Season 4, Episode 8, titled “Assassin’s Bullet.” This pivotal moment reveals the profound psychological damage he has suffered due to his actions and the immense guilt he carries. This article will explore the context surrounding this event, delving into the motivations behind Reiner’s despair and the broader implications for his character arc.
A Moment of Utter Despair: Contextualizing the Attempt
The suicide attempt is not a spontaneous decision but rather the culmination of years of trauma and internal conflict. Reiner, forced to infiltrate Paradis Island as a Warrior candidate and subsequently live a double life, has been grappling with the immense weight of his actions. He is torn between his duty to Marley and the bonds he formed with his comrades within the 104th Training Corps.
The “Assassin’s Bullet” episode portrays Reiner at a particularly low point. He is confronted with the consequences of his actions, specifically the attack on Liberio orchestrated by Eren Yeager. Seeing the devastation and loss of life, including the deaths of his former comrades and mentors, overwhelms him. The realization that his past actions directly contributed to the current carnage pushes him to the brink. Furthermore, the unexpected arrival of Eren and the Survey Corps on Marleyan soil shatters any remaining illusions of a quick and easy victory. He recognizes the futility of his efforts and the seemingly endless cycle of hatred and violence. This potent combination of guilt, disillusionment, and despair ultimately leads him to consider ending his life.
Understanding Reiner’s Psychological State
Reiner’s character is profoundly complex, marked by a severe case of dissociative identity disorder (DID) (though not explicitly stated as such in the show, this is a common fan theory and accepted interpretation). He alternates between two distinct personalities: the loyal and dedicated Warrior, driven by a sense of duty and a desire to protect Marley, and the kind and dependable soldier within the 104th Training Corps, seeking camaraderie and acceptance.
This internal conflict constantly plagues him. He is unable to reconcile his actions as a Warrior with the bonds he forged with his comrades on Paradis. The guilt of betraying his friends, contributing to the fall of Wall Maria, and being responsible for countless deaths weighs heavily on him. The suicide attempt is a direct consequence of this unbearable burden. He sees himself as a monster, deserving of punishment, and believes that death is the only escape from his torment.
Furthermore, the episode highlights Reiner’s sense of failure. He failed to retrieve the Founding Titan, failed to prevent the attack on Liberio, and ultimately failed to secure a future for the Eldians living in Marley. This feeling of inadequacy further contributes to his despair and reinforces his belief that he is a burden to everyone around him.
The Significance of Intervention
While Reiner attempts to take his life, he is ultimately stopped by his cousin, Gabi Braun, and his fellow Warrior candidate, Falco Grice. Their intervention is crucial, not only in saving his life but also in providing him with a glimmer of hope. Gabi’s unwavering faith in him and Falco’s genuine concern remind him that he is not alone and that his life has value. This moment marks a turning point in Reiner’s character arc, signaling the beginning of his journey towards healing and redemption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What specific events triggered Reiner’s suicide attempt?
The cumulative effect of the attack on Liberio, the unexpected arrival of Eren and the Survey Corps, the deaths of his former comrades and mentors, and the realization that his actions had directly contributed to the devastation all contributed to Reiner’s suicide attempt. It was a culmination of years of trauma and internal conflict that finally reached a breaking point.
FAQ 2: How does Reiner’s dissociative identity disorder (DID) contribute to his mental state?
Reiner’s struggles with his dual identity – the ruthless Warrior and the loyal soldier – create constant internal conflict and guilt. He is unable to reconcile his actions in Marley with the bonds he formed on Paradis, leading to immense psychological strain.
FAQ 3: Why did Reiner specifically feel responsible for the attack on Liberio?
Reiner felt responsible because his actions in destroying Wall Maria set the stage for the events that followed, including the eventual attack on Liberio. He understands that his past actions directly led to the current suffering.
FAQ 4: What is the symbolism of Reiner’s armored Titan form in relation to his mental state?
The Armored Titan, while a symbol of strength and protection, also represents Reiner’s emotional armor. He uses it as a defense mechanism to shield himself from the pain and trauma he has experienced. However, this armor also isolates him and prevents him from truly connecting with others.
FAQ 5: How do Gabi and Falco’s reactions impact Reiner’s decision not to go through with it?
Gabi and Falco’s unconditional love and unwavering faith in him reminded Reiner that he was not alone and that his life had value. Their presence gave him a glimmer of hope and prevented him from going through with the suicide.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of the conversation Reiner has with Eren later in the series?
The conversation between Reiner and Eren in the basement of the Yeager family home is a pivotal moment of understanding and empathy. They both recognize the shared trauma and suffering they have endured, leading to a begrudging respect and a glimmer of hope for a future without endless conflict.
FAQ 7: Does Reiner ever fully recover from his suicidal thoughts?
While Reiner shows significant improvement and finds a sense of purpose, the trauma he experienced likely leaves lasting scars. He continues to struggle with his past actions and the guilt he carries, but he learns to cope with his emotions and channel them into protecting others.
FAQ 8: How does the concept of “warrior” and “soldier” interplay with Reiner’s identity crisis?
The terms “warrior” and “soldier” represent two conflicting ideologies and loyalties that tear Reiner apart. He struggles to reconcile his duty to Marley as a Warrior with the camaraderie he experienced as a soldier among the 104th Training Corps.
FAQ 9: What role does Marleyan propaganda play in shaping Reiner’s perception of himself and the Eldians on Paradis Island?
Marleyan propaganda heavily influenced Reiner’s perception of the Eldians on Paradis Island, portraying them as devils and monsters. This propaganda instilled in him a sense of fear and hatred, which fueled his actions in destroying Wall Maria.
FAQ 10: How does Reiner’s relationship with his parents affect his mental health?
Reiner’s strained relationship with his parents, particularly his mother’s ambition for him to become a Marleyan honorary, adds to his sense of pressure and expectation. This pressure contributes to his feelings of inadequacy and his desire to prove himself.
FAQ 11: In what ways does Reiner’s character arc subvert typical hero/villain narratives?
Reiner’s character arc challenges the traditional hero/villain dichotomy by portraying him as a complex and nuanced individual grappling with immense trauma and internal conflict. He is neither purely good nor purely evil, but rather a product of his circumstances and choices.
FAQ 12: What are the broader thematic implications of Reiner’s suicide attempt within the context of Attack on Titan?
Reiner’s suicide attempt highlights the devastating psychological consequences of war and violence, particularly on young soldiers forced to commit atrocities. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need to break the cycle of hatred. It also underscore’s the show’s anti-war message and challenges viewers to consider the human cost of conflict.