The final episode of the globally acclaimed anime, Attack on Titan, is titled “Toward the Tree on That Hill.” This episode, representing the culmination of a decade-long journey, marks the definitive conclusion to the story of Eren Yeager and the fight for freedom within a world teetering on the brink of annihilation.
The Significance of the Title
“Toward the Tree on That Hill” holds profound symbolic weight, resonating with key themes present throughout Attack on Titan. The tree imagery harkens back to the very beginning of the anime, to Shiganshina District and the tree under which Eren, Mikasa, and Armin often gathered. This tree represents their childhood, their innocence, and the simpler times before the titan threat shattered their world. The “hill” suggests a journey, an ascent, and the challenges that come with achieving a long-sought-after goal. The title, therefore, foreshadows a return to roots while acknowledging the arduous path taken to reach this point.
The choice of “Toward” instead of “At” or “On” is also significant. It implies a journey still in progress, even at the end. It suggests that while the immediate conflict is resolved, the characters and the world they inhabit still face an uncertain future, a future they must actively strive to shape. This ambiguity perfectly encapsulates the complex and nuanced ending that Attack on Titan ultimately delivers.
Decoding the Narrative: What Happens in the Final Episode?
“Toward the Tree on That Hill” picks up immediately after the events of the penultimate episode, focusing on the aftermath of Eren Yeager’s demise at the hands of Mikasa Ackerman. The episode delves into the emotional fallout experienced by the surviving members of the Survey Corps, particularly Mikasa, Armin, and Levi. It reveals the true motivations behind Eren’s devastating actions – the Rumbling – through Eren’s final conversation with Armin within the Paths.
This conversation is crucial for understanding Eren’s complex character and the tragedy that unfolds. He confesses that he orchestrated the Rumbling not solely for the sake of Paradis Island, but also because he was driven by a twisted desire to fulfill his own twisted vision of freedom. This revelation underscores the theme of the anime, that the pursuit of freedom can often lead to devastating consequences.
The episode then shifts its focus to the establishment of a new world order, one where Eldians and Marleyans attempt to coexist, albeit with lingering tensions. The final scenes depict Mikasa visiting Eren’s grave near the tree on the hill, a poignant reminder of the immense loss and the enduring impact of his actions. This ending, while bittersweet, offers a glimmer of hope for a future free from the cycle of hatred and violence. However, a brief epilogue shows centuries later that history eventually repeats itself, hinting that conflict is inherent to humanity.
The Animation and Production
The animation quality of “Toward the Tree on That Hill” is exceptionally high, reflecting the significant investment made in the final arc of Attack on Titan. The fight sequences are dynamic and visceral, capturing the brutal reality of the conflict. The emotional scenes are rendered with great sensitivity, showcasing the raw pain and grief of the characters. The overall production values are a testament to the dedication of the animation studio, MAPPA, in delivering a fitting conclusion to this beloved series. The score, composed by Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto, is particularly impactful, amplifying the emotional resonance of the scenes and creating a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. Why was the final season split into multiple parts?
The final season of Attack on Titan was split into multiple parts due to the sheer volume of content to adapt from the manga and the desire to maintain a high level of animation quality. Breaking it down into smaller, more manageable chunks allowed the production team to avoid compromising on either pacing or visual fidelity.
2. Who animated the final season of Attack on Titan?
The final season of Attack on Titan was animated by MAPPA (Studio MAPPA). They took over from Wit Studio, who animated the first three seasons.
3. Is there a movie that concludes Attack on Titan?
No, there isn’t a movie that directly concludes the storyline of Attack on Titan. The anime series concludes with the final two episodes of Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 4. These are often referred to as a “final special.”
4. What happens to Mikasa after Eren’s death?
After Eren’s death, Mikasa dedicates her life to visiting his grave on Paradis Island. She eventually marries and starts a family, demonstrating her capacity for love and happiness despite the immense loss she has suffered. The epilogue shows her with her family, then later as an old woman approaching Eren’s grave, showcasing her lifelong devotion.
5. What is the significance of the tree in the ending?
The tree in the ending symbolizes the cycle of history and the enduring nature of conflict. While the immediate conflict is resolved, the presence of the tree suggests that similar conflicts could arise again in the future. In the manga and extended ending scenes, it shows that humanity’s inherent nature to fight and acquire resources can result in the same issues Eren wanted to prevent.
6. What is the point of Eren’s actions?
Eren’s actions are complex and multifaceted. While he claims his aim was to protect Paradis Island, his motivations are also driven by a twisted desire for freedom and a need to fulfill his own vision. He essentially forces his friends to kill him in order to eliminate the power of the Titans and give them a chance at a peaceful future, albeit one shrouded in uncertainty.
7. How does Armin contribute to the ending?
Armin plays a critical role in the ending through his discussions with Eren in the Paths. He acts as a mediator and helps to uncover Eren’s true motivations. Furthermore, his diplomacy and negotiating skills are instrumental in establishing a fragile peace between Eldians and other nations.
8. Does Levi survive the final battle?
Yes, Levi survives the final battle, albeit with significant injuries. He loses fingers on one hand and suffers other wounds. Despite his physical limitations, he continues to dedicate his life to the betterment of the world, working towards creating a more peaceful future for future generations.
9. What are the Paths?
The Paths are a metaphysical realm connecting all Eldians, granting access to the Founding Titan’s power. It’s where Ymir Fritz resides and where Titans can be created. It’s a complex and often confusing concept within the Attack on Titan universe.
10. Is the ending of the anime the same as the manga?
Yes, the ending of the anime is largely the same as the manga, with some minor alterations in presentation. While some fans initially expressed dissatisfaction with the manga ending, the anime adaptation remains faithful to the source material.
11. Will there be more Attack on Titan content in the future?
While the main storyline of Attack on Titan has concluded, the possibility of spin-offs or prequels remains. The universe created by Hajime Isayama is rich and complex, offering ample opportunities for further exploration. There has been no official announcement as of the current date.
12. Where can I watch the final episode of Attack on Titan?
The final episode of Attack on Titan is available for streaming on various platforms, including Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Funimation. Availability may vary depending on your region. Always check with official sources for legal streaming options.