Why Did Eren Yeager Start the Rumbling in Attack on Titan?

Eren Yeager is one of the most complex and layered characters in the anime and manga series "Attack on Titan." Initially introduced as a determined young boy with dreams of exploring the world beyond the walls, his character arc takes numerous twists and turns as the story unfolds. As the plot thickens, Eren transforms into a figure enshrouded in moral ambiguity, prompting viewers to question his choices, particularly regarding the infamous Rumbling.

The Rumbling is a catastrophic event that involves unleashing the Titans encased within the walls of Paradis Island to trample the world outside. This destructive plan marks a significant turning point in the series, showcasing Eren's drastic shift from a passionate youth seeking freedom to a calculative agent of destruction. Why would Eren resort to such measures? To answer this question, we must delve into the larger context of his motivations and the world he inhabits.

The Context of the Attack on Titan World

The world of "Attack on Titan" is steeped in conflict, fear, and a perpetual struggle for survival. Here are some key aspects that shape this intricate universe:

• Wall Culture: Humanity had retreated behind massive walls to protect themselves from the Titans, monstrous humanoid creatures that prey on humans. This isolationist approach has bred fear and xenophobia.
• Historical Tensions: The world is divided into nations, particularly Eldians and Marleyans. Historically, Eldians faced oppression, leading to deep-rooted animosity between the two groups.
• Power of Titans: The Titans are central to the series, uniquely tied to the cursed fate of Eldians. Eren himself inherits the power of the Attack Titan and later, the Founding Titan, giving him immense potential but also an immense burden.
• Eren's Personal Losses: The significant losses Eren faces—including friends and loved ones—drive him to seek a drastic solution that aligns with his beliefs about freedom and survival.

These elements culminate in Eren's decision to begin the Rumbling, propelling the narrative into profound moral dilemmas that challenge our understanding of justice, vengeance, and what it truly means to be free.

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Eren's Character Development Throughout the Series

Eren Yeager's journey in "Attack on Titan" is nothing short of a rollercoaster, reflecting a remarkable transformation from an impulsive youth to a complex anti-hero. Initially, Eren was driven by a burning desire to fight the Titans and gain freedom for humanity. His early experiences, particularly witnessing the death of his mother, catalyzed a fierce determination to eradicate the Titan threat. This primal motivation was infused with a sense of righteousness—Eren saw himself as humanity's savior, and such convictions gave him an intense vigor.

As the series progresses, however, Eren evolves, facing harsh realities that challenge his black-and-white worldview. Post the revelations about the Titans and their origins, a seed of doubt is planted in Eren's mind about the morality of his fight. No longer is it just about survival; he grapples with the consequences of his actions, leading to a more complex philosophical understanding of combat and freedom.

One of the most pivotal moments in Eren's character arc occurs in Season 4 when he embraces a more sinister path. The idea of the Rumbling emerges, framing his desperation for freedom in a way that sacrifices countless lives. This shift from hero to anti-hero showcases Eren's willingness to adopt extreme measures for what he perceives as the greater good. His character development leads to the ultimate question: can one truly be free if it costs so many lives?

To summarize, Eren Yeager's journey is a profound exploration of personal evolution, moral ambiguity, and the burdens of leadership:

• Origin: Innocent boy wanting to defeat Titans.
• Transformation: From naive idealist to morally complex anti-hero.
• Catalysts: Traumatic experiences shape his worldview.
• Ultimate Choice: Embraces the Rumbling, prioritizing freedom over morality.

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The Philosophy Behind the Rumbling

The Rumbling is one of the most controversial and thought-provoking elements of "Attack on Titan," and it serves as a profound philosophical underpinning that explores themes of freedom, sacrifice, and the cycle of violence. At its core, the Rumbling represents Eren Yeager's extreme measure to confront centuries of conflict between Marleyans and Eldians. This act raises critical questions about the nature of freedom and what it truly costs.

Eren's mindset can be framed through several philosophical lenses:

• Utilitarianism: Eren believes that the ends justify the means, thinking that sacrificing a significant number for the possibility of peace for his people is acceptable.
• Fatalism: He comes to terms with the idea that some things are inevitable, leading to a resignation that massive violence is the only solution.
• Cycle of Hatred: Eren’s actions reflect a desire to break this cycle, but they also solidify it, prompting a vicious loop of violence and retaliation.

This complex philosophy can also be viewed in a broader context — Does freedom justify genocide? Eren’s choice reveals the stark reality of war: innocent lives are often collateral damage. As he launches the Rumbling, he acts under the belief that total annihilation of his enemies will finally grant his people the freedom they seek. However, this bleak plan ignores the complexities of human life and history. Is true freedom attainable through such devastating sacrifices, or does it perpetuate the cycle of hatred and violence?

In conclusion, the Rumbling serves as a profound commentary on:

Ultimately, the philosophical undercurrents of the Rumbling invite viewers to ponder deep questions about morality, sacrifice, and the essence of freedom in a world riddled with conflict.

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Key Events Leading Up to the Rumbling

To understand why Eren Yeager decided to unleash the Rumbling in "Attack on Titan," it's essential to examine the key events that led up to this monumental decision. Eren's journey transformed from a naive boy dreaming of freedom to a complex character grappling with morality, vengeance, and the harsh realities of war.

Here are some pivotal events:

• The Discovery of His Titan Powers: Eren's transformation from human to Titan initiated a series of revelations about the Titans' origins and the world outside Paradis. This new power instilled a sense of purpose within Eren but also a burden of responsibility.
• The Fall of Wall Maria: The breach of Wall Maria by Titans not only triggered chaos but also planted seeds of hatred in Eren. Witnessing friends and family fall prey to the Titans shaped his resolve to fight back fiercely.
• Learning the Truth of the World: The discovery that the world was larger than he thought opened Eren's eyes to the realities of Marley and the oppression faced by Eldians. This revelation fueled his sense of injustice and propelled him towards drastic measures.
• The Arc with Zeke Yeager: Eren's complex relationship with Zeke became a significant chapter in his story. Zeke’s plans for euthanizing the Eldians conflicted sharply with Eren's desire for liberation, leading them down divergent paths.
• The Alliance's Betrayal: The betrayal by those he once considered allies, especially after witnessing their actions against fellow Eldians, played a crucial role in Eren's decision to isolate himself and consider the Rumbling as the only option left.

These pivotal moments cumulatively pushed Eren towards a path of destruction, culminating in the unforgiving decision to ignite the Rumbling as an act of defiance against a world he could no longer trust.

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The Influence of Friends and Allies on Eren's Decision

The relationships that Eren Yeager cultivated throughout "Attack on Titan" played a massive role in shaping his ideology and decisions, particularly the controversial choice to initiate the Rumbling. While friends and allies often provided strength and motivation, they also created a complex web of emotional conflicts that ultimately influenced Eren's mindset.

Here’s how various friendships impacted Eren:

• Mikasa Ackerman: Eren's childhood friend and protector, Mikasa epitomizes loyalty. Her unwavering devotion created a safety net for Eren, yet ironically, it contributed to his feelings of alienation and guilt, pushing him further into isolation.
• Armin Arlert: Armin served as the voice of reason throughout the series. However, their final confrontation revealed that Armin’s idealism could not sway Eren’s hardened resolve, as Eren continued to push boundaries in pursuit of his vision.
• Reiner Braun: Reiner’s duality as an agent for Marley and a friend complicated Eren’s feelings about his enemies. As Eren learns more about Reiner’s struggles, it causes a rift that highlights Eren's desperation to choose a side firmly.
• Zeke Yeager: Zeke's influence on Eren is monumental. Their sibling bond and differing ideologies create a powerful conflict. While Zeke proposes a radical solution for the Eldians, Eren's desire for freedom and revenge drives him towards a more destructive path.

This intricate tapestry of friendships and rivalries ultimately plays a vital role in Eren's transformation into a figure capable of enacting the Rumbling, painting a picture of how deep connections can lead to catastrophic choices.

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7. Comparing Eren's Choice to Other Characters' Actions

When you think about Eren Yeager's decision to start the Rumbling, it’s impossible not to draw comparisons with other key players in the "Attack on Titan" saga. Eren’s drastic action is emblematic of his character development, but how does it stack up against the choices made by others?

Let's take a look at a few characters whose actions can be juxtaposed with Eren’s monumental choice:

• Mikasa Ackerman: As one of Eren's closest allies, Mikasa often chooses to protect Eren over anything else. Her decisions are influenced by her deep feelings for him, showcasing how personal emotions can cloud judgment.
• Armin Arlert: Armin is a thinker and strategist, often seeking peaceful resolutions. His inclination is to find compromise rather than resort to violence, which starkly contrasts Eren’s willingness to obliterate entire civilizations.
• Zeke Yeager: Like Eren, Zeke also has his own convoluted motives driving him. However, his methods involve manipulation and coercion rather than outright devastation, showing a different form of moral ambiguity.

Each character's choices reflect their backgrounds, values, and their unique burdens. Eren's decision to initiate the Rumbling can be seen as a culmination of trauma and desperation, in stark contrast to Mikasa's protective instincts or Armin's hopeful outlook. The ethical complexity of these choices adds an intricate layer to the narrative.

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8. The Ethical Implications of the Rumbling

The Rumbling isn’t just a storytelling device; it raises significant ethical questions that linger long after you’ve watched the series. Eren’s choice to unleash the Titans encapsulates dilemmas that challenge our understanding of morality.

Let’s explore some of the key ethical implications:

• Utilitarianism vs. Deontology: Eren’s actions can be analyzed through different ethical lenses. From a utilitarian perspective, he believes that the survival of a few justifies the destruction of many. In contrast, a deontological viewpoint rejects this rationale, arguing that some actions, like genocide, are morally impermissible regardless of the outcome.
• Collective Punishment: The Rumbling acts as a form of collective punishment against those who may not have directly harmed Eren or his friends. This raises the question: Do innocents deserve to suffer for the crimes of their ancestors or fellow countrymen?
• Freedom vs. Security: Eren’s pursuit of freedom for his people also touches on the ethical balance between freedom and security. Is the eradication of an entire race justifiable for the sake of one's own population’s safety?

The ethical ramifications of the Rumbling leave viewers with a hefty dose of moral ambiguity. They’re not just questions posed to characters in the story; they resonate with real-world issues, prompting us to reflect on the implications of our own choices in society.

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Fan Reactions and Interpretations of Eren's Actions

The actions of Eren Yeager in "Attack on Titan" have sparked a multitude of reactions and interpretations among fans worldwide. Some view him as a tragic hero, while others see him as a villain who went too far. This stark divide in opinions highlights how nuanced his character is.

Many fans express their admiration for Eren's willingness to sacrifice everything for the protection of his people. They argue that Eren's decision to start the Rumbling is a desperate but necessary measure—one borne out of the overwhelming pressure and fear he felt as the last hope for Eldians. This perspective emphasizes his evolution from a naïve boy to a ruthless leader unwilling to accept the status quo.

In contrast, some fans contend that Eren's methods are reprehensible. They argue that the mass destruction caused by the Rumbling cannot be justified, regardless of the intentions behind it. This school of thought emphasizes a moral standpoint, debating whether ends truly justify the means.

• Heroic Perspective: Eren as a savior willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.
• Villainous View: Eren as a dangerous tyrant leading millions to their deaths.
• Complex Morality: The grey areas in Eren’s choices reflect real-world dilemmas.

Online forums and fan discussions are filled with heated debates, memes, and artwork that further explore Eren's motivations. Whether they adore him or detest him, fans agree on one thing: Eren Yeager is a character that redefines the notion of heroism and villainy.

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Conclusion: Understanding Eren Yeager's Complex Motives

In the world of "Attack on Titan," Eren Yeager stands out as one of the most complex characters, driven by a whirlwind of emotions and layered motives. Understanding why he initiated the Rumbling requires delving deep into his psyche and the circumstances surrounding him.

Eren’s journey begins with the trauma of witnessing his loved ones suffer and die, which understandably plants deeply rooted fears and insecurities within him. As he grapples with the heritages of Eldians and the world’s perception of them, Eren’s motivations morph from a desire for freedom to a resolute determination to protect his people at any cost. His actions can be seen as an extreme manifestation of love and desperation, a twisted form of protection for those he holds dear.

It’s essential to recognize the societal pressures that influence Eren's decisions. The burden of history, the weight of past atrocities committed against Eldians, and the lurking threat of annihilation all play a crucial role in his transformation. With each step, Eren becomes increasingly convinced that the only way to ensure the survival of his people is through sheer force.

Thus, Eren Yeager stands as a reflection of humanity itself—capable of both immense love and devastating destruction. Understanding his complex motives invites viewers to confront the moral ambiguities present in decisions made in the name of love and survival. His legacy will undoubtedly spark discussions for years to come, reminding us that in a world rife with conflict, the lines between hero and villain are often blurred.

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