Sasha Braus, a beloved character known for her love of food and her sharpshooting skills, meets her tragic end in Episode 37 of Attack on Titan, titled “Children of the Forest,” which is the eighth episode of Season 4. Her death is a pivotal moment in the final season, serving as a catalyst for significant character development and driving the narrative forward with profound emotional impact.
The Impact of Sasha’s Death
Sasha’s unexpected demise resonates deeply with fans and fundamentally alters the dynamics within the Scout Regiment. The circumstances surrounding her death, and the character responsible, are intrinsically linked to the larger themes of revenge, cycles of violence, and the complexities of war explored throughout the final season. Understanding the context surrounding her death is crucial for appreciating the nuances of these themes.
The Context of “Children of the Forest”
Episode 37 finds the Scout Regiment returning home after their successful raid on Liberio. While seemingly victorious, the episode quickly shifts to a somber tone. The celebratory mood is shattered when Gabi Braun, consumed by hatred and seeking revenge for the deaths of her comrades, infiltrates the airship and fatally shoots Sasha.
The aftermath of the shooting is emotionally devastating. Sasha’s final words, a yearning for meat, encapsulate her simple desires amidst the overwhelming chaos of war. Her death leaves a gaping hole within the Scout Regiment, particularly impacting Eren, Mikasa, and Armin, who grapple with the consequences of their actions in Liberio and the cycle of violence they have perpetuated.
The Catalyst for Change
Sasha’s death serves as a critical turning point for several characters:
- Eren Yeager: Eren’s reaction is particularly ambiguous. While initially appearing to smirk upon hearing the news, it’s a complex reaction likely masking deeper internal turmoil about the path he’s chosen and the inevitability of death in war.
- Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert: They struggle with the loss of a close friend and the realization that their actions have fueled the cycle of hatred that led to Sasha’s death. They begin to question the morality of their actions and the cost of freedom.
- Gabi Braun: Gabi’s arc is drastically altered. Initially driven by revenge, she is eventually forced to confront the consequences of her actions and begin to understand the complexities of the world beyond the walls of Liberio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sasha’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Sasha’s death in Attack on Titan:
H3: 1. Who killed Sasha in Attack on Titan?
Gabi Braun is responsible for Sasha’s death. Driven by vengeance for the raid on Liberio and the deaths of her fellow Warrior candidates, Gabi infiltrates the airship and shoots Sasha.
H3: 2. What was Sasha’s last word?
Sasha’s last word, or rather last phrase, was “Meat…” This poignant final word highlights her simple desires and love for food, a stark contrast to the complex and brutal reality of the world she lived in.
H3: 3. Why did Gabi kill Sasha?
Gabi killed Sasha out of revenge for the events in Liberio. She blamed the Eldians of Paradis Island for the destruction and loss of life, including the deaths of her close friends and fellow Warrior candidates. She saw Sasha as an enemy and a symbol of the people who had wronged her.
H3: 4. How did the rest of the Scout Regiment react to Sasha’s death?
The Scout Regiment was deeply affected by Sasha’s death. Mikasa and Armin are visibly distraught and question the cycle of violence they are perpetuating. Connie is particularly devastated, as he and Sasha shared a close bond. Eren’s reaction is more ambiguous, hinting at a deeper understanding of the consequences of war and the path he has chosen.
H3: 5. What season and episode does Sasha die?
Sasha dies in Season 4, Episode 8, which is also Episode 37 overall. The episode is titled “Children of the Forest.”
H3: 6. Is Sasha’s death permanent?
Yes, Sasha’s death is permanent. Attack on Titan is known for its unflinching portrayal of war and its consequences, and character deaths are often treated with a high degree of realism.
H3: 7. Did Sasha’s death affect the plot significantly?
Absolutely. Sasha’s death acts as a major catalyst for character development, particularly for Eren, Mikasa, Armin, and Gabi. It also underscores the themes of revenge, violence, and the moral complexities of war, which are central to the final season.
H3: 8. Did Sasha’s death happen in the manga?
Yes, Sasha’s death occurs in the manga as well, specifically in Chapter 105. The anime adaptation faithfully recreates the events from the manga.
H3: 9. Was Sasha a popular character?
Yes, Sasha was a highly popular character among fans of Attack on Titan. Her quirky personality, love for food, and relatable nature made her a beloved figure. Her death was met with widespread grief and sadness within the fan community.
H3: 10. Why do some fans call Sasha “Potato Girl?”
Sasha earned the nickname “Potato Girl” after an incident early in the series where she stole a potato during training and was reprimanded for it. The scene became iconic and solidified her reputation for her love of food.
H3: 11. What lessons can be learned from Sasha’s death?
Sasha’s death serves as a stark reminder of the brutality and consequences of war. It highlights the cycle of violence and revenge and encourages viewers to consider the human cost of conflict. It also reinforces the importance of empathy and understanding in a world filled with hatred and division.
H3: 12. Does Gabi ever redeem herself after killing Sasha?
Gabi’s character undergoes significant development after Sasha’s death. She is eventually taken in by the Braus family, Sasha’s family, and begins to understand the perspectives of the people she once considered her enemies. While she can never undo her actions, she does begin a path towards redemption by acknowledging the consequences of her actions and working to create a better future.