Jhamila Pineda

12-Topaz
Creative Non-Fiction

Attack on Titan (Season 1-4)

Characters

Protagonists

1. Eren Yeager – Determined, passionate, often impulsive. Eren evolves from a vengeful boy
into a more complex character grappling with moral dilemmas. Eren's journey drives the plot
forward. His desire for freedom and revenge against the Titans sets the stage for the series. Eren's
transformation and the moral complexities of his actions force the audience to question the
nature of heroism and villainy, especially as he becomes more ambiguous in later seasons.

2. Mikasa Ackerman – Strong, loyal, fiercely protective of Eren. Mikasa is skilled in combat
and often acts as Eren's guardian. Mikasa represents unwavering loyalty and the personal stakes
of the conflict. Her protective nature toward Eren highlights the emotional core of the story and
adds depth to the theme of friendship and sacrifice. Her character also showcases the struggles of
those who bear the burden of protecting loved ones.

3. Armin Arlert – Intelligent, strategic thinker, initially insecure but grows into a confident
leader. Armin often provides the group with critical insights. Armin's intelligence and strategic
thinking often save the day. He embodies the theme of growth, evolving from a timid boy to a
confident leader. His decisions often prompt critical changes in the course of events,
emphasizing the importance of intellect alongside brute strength.

Antagonists

1. Reiner Braun (Armored Titan) – Conflicted, struggles with his identity as a warrior and a
friend. His duality creates tension as he wrestles with his loyalty. Reiner's dual identity as a
soldier and infiltrator adds layers to the narrative. His internal conflict reflects the theme of
identity and the burdens of loyalty, making him a tragic figure. His actions challenge the
protagonists' understanding of friend and foe.

2. Zeke Yeager (Beast Titan) – Manipulative, cunning, and driven by his vision for the world.
Zeke has a complex backstory that influences his actions. Zeke serves as a catalyst for many
events in the series. His vision for the world and ability to manipulate others introduce
philosophical dilemmas about freedom and control. Zeke's complex relationship with Eren
provides a critical lens through which the series explores familial ties and differing ideologies.

3. Kenny Ackerman – Ruthless, skilled fighter, and a complex character with a connection to
the Ackerman lineage. He serves as a formidable antagonist to the protagonists. Kenny's
backstory and connection to the Ackerman lineage enrich the lore of the series. His ruthless
nature and mentorship of Levi provide insight into Levi's character while also showcasing the
darker side of human nature amidst the fight for survival.

Foils

1. Jean Kirstein – Practical, often skeptical of Eren's methods. Jean's development contrasts
with Eren’s impulsive nature, highlighting differing views on leadership and morality. Jean’s
pragmatic approach contrasts with Eren’s more impulsive tendencies. His development from a
self-centered individual to a reliable leader highlights the theme of growth and the importance of
teamwork. Jean’s skepticism often serves as a moral compass, questioning the decisions made by
the group.

2. Sasha Blouse – Light-hearted, carefree, and food-loving. Sasha’s cheerful disposition serves
as a foil to the darker tones of the series and emphasizes the stakes of their struggle. Sasha brings
lightness to the series, balancing its darker themes. Her love for food and life serves as a
reminder of what they are fighting for, enhancing the emotional stakes of their battles. Her tragic
fate deeply impacts the protagonists, reinforcing the costs of war.

Flat Characters

1. Connie Springer – Friendly, good-hearted soldier. While he provides comic relief, Connie's
character doesn’t undergo significant development. Connie provides comic relief and a sense of
camaraderie within the group. While he does not undergo significant development, his loyalty
and friendship emphasize the themes of unity and sacrifice among the soldiers.
2. Ymir Fritz – Mysterious, has a role in the lore but remains largely static in her
characterization despite her impact on the story. Ymir's backstory is crucial to understanding the
origins of the Titans. Her story introduces themes of sacrifice and the consequences of power,
which resonate throughout the series, influencing future events and character motivations.

Dynamic Characters

1. Hange Zoë – Enthusiastic, curious, and adaptable. Hange evolves from a researcher to a
tactical leader, showcasing significant growth throughout the series. Hange's enthusiasm for
understanding Titans and her evolution into a leader reflect the importance of knowledge and
innovation in warfare. Her character embodies the theme of curiosity and the quest for truth,
which is central to the series' plot.

2. Erwin Smith – Charismatic, strategic, and willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Erwin’s
leadership and ideals develop throughout the series, especially in his final moments. Erwin’s
leadership and charisma inspire those around him. His willingness to make sacrifices for the
greater good raises questions about the morality of leadership and the cost of ambition. His final
stand underscores the themes of courage and legacy.

Confidantes

1. Levi Ackerman – Stoic, skilled, and fiercely loyal. Levi often serves as a mentor to Eren and
Mikasa, providing guidance and support. Levi's role as a mentor to Eren and Mikasa provides
guidance and stability within the chaotic world they inhabit. His stoic demeanor and combat
prowess highlight the themes of strength and resilience, while his backstory adds depth to his
character.

2. Historia Reiss – Compassionate, strong-willed, she transitions from a sheltered princess to a

Plot
"Attack on Titan," originally a manga series created by Hajime Isayama, has captivated
audiences worldwide with its intricate plot, complex characters, and themes of freedom, survival,
and the nature of humanity. The story unfolds in a world besieged by terrifying giants known as
Titans, who devour humans without remorse. The series combines action, horror, and deep
philosophical questions, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

The story begins in a walled city, where humanity has been living in fear of Titans for over a
century. The protagonist, Eren Yeager, witnesses the destruction of his hometown and the death
of his mother during a Titan attack, which ignites his desire for vengeance. Alongside his friends
Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert, Eren joins the military to combat Titans. The trio's journey
is marked by their struggle to understand the Titans' origins and the truth behind their world.

As the series progresses, the plot reveals that the Titans are not just mindless beasts but are
linked to the Eldian people, who possess the ability to transform into Titans. This revelation
raises questions about identity, morality, and the cycle of hatred. Eren’s character evolves from a
naïve, revenge-driven youth to a complex figure grappling with the burdens of leadership and the
consequences of his actions.

The introduction of the Marleyan government adds another layer to the narrative. Marley, a
nation that oppresses Eldians, uses them as weapons in their quest for world domination. Eren's
desire to break free from the walls eventually leads him to confront Marley, where he learns
more about his powers and the historical enmity between Eldians and Marleyans. The series
delves into themes of oppression, freedom, and the cyclical nature of violence, prompting
viewers to question who the true monsters are.

As the story reaches its climax, Eren's transformation into a more radical figure embodies the
moral ambiguities faced by characters throughout the series. His decision to unleash the
Rumbling—a catastrophic event involving colossal Titans marching to destroy the world—
highlights the desperation and complexity of his character. Eren believes that this is the only way
to secure freedom for his people, yet it also showcases the lengths to which he will go, leading to
devastating consequences.

The final arcs of the series explore the aftermath of Eren's choices. The remaining members of
the Survey Corps, including Mikasa, Armin, and former enemies, must grapple with their
loyalties and the devastating impact of Eren’s actions. The climax culminates in a poignant
confrontation, where themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the quest for understanding take center
stage. The resolution of the series leaves audiences contemplating the cyclical nature of hatred
and the possibility of reconciliation amidst deep-rooted conflict.

In conclusion, "Attack on Titan" is not merely a story about humanity's fight against Titans; it is
a profound exploration of human nature, freedom, and the consequences of choices. The series
challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of morality and the impact of societal structures
on individual lives. Through its rich narrative and character development, "Attack on Titan"
remains a landmark in anime and manga, resonating with audiences long after its conclusion.

Settings

1. The Walls – The initial setting is the three concentric walls—Wall Maria, Wall Rose, and Wall
Sina—that protect the last remnants of humanity from the Titans. These walls symbolize safety
but also confinement, representing the struggle between freedom and security. The inner walls
are more affluent, while the outer regions are poorer and more vulnerable to Titan attacks. The
walls create a stark contrast between the peaceful life inside and the terror outside.

2. Shiganshina District – This is Eren Yeager's hometown and the site of the series' inciting
incident. The district's destruction by the Colossal Titan marks the beginning of the characters'
journey and their desire for revenge against the Titans. Its fall signifies the fragility of human
existence and the ever-present threat of the Titans.

3. Trost District – After the fall of Shiganshina, the story shifts to Trost, where the military
fights to reclaim the territory from Titans. This setting highlights the desperation and chaos of
human warfare against the Titans and serves as a backdrop for significant character development,
particularly for Eren, who discovers his Titan-shifting ability here.

4. The Military Districts – The various military installations, such as the Training Corps and the
Survey Corps headquarters, provide insight into human society's structure and the sacrifices
made to fight the Titans. These settings emphasize camaraderie, the burden of leadership, and the
harsh realities of warfare.

5. Marley – As the story progresses, the setting shifts to Marley, a nation that oppresses the
Eldian people. Marley represents the human conflict and the darker aspects of society, including
racism, imperialism, and the politics of fear. The stark contrast between Marley’s technological
advancements and the Eldians’ plight deepens the narrative's themes of freedom and oppression.

6. The Outside World – The final arcs of the series expand the setting beyond the walls and
Marley, revealing a wider world. The exploration of this outside world introduces new cultures,
technologies, and the consequences of the Titans' existence. It serves to challenge the characters'
beliefs and confront the reality of their situation, pushing them toward difficult choices.

7. The Paths – A metaphysical realm known as "The Paths" plays a significant role in the series,
connecting all Eldians and Titans. This setting symbolizes the shared history and trauma of the
Eldian people, providing a deeper understanding of the Titan phenomenon and the
interconnectedness of their fates.

In summary, the settings in "Attack on Titan" are not just backdrops but integral to the narrative.
They enhance the themes of the story, reflect the characters' struggles, and provide a commentary
on the nature of humanity, freedom, and the consequences of historical cycles. As the characters
traverse these diverse environments, the settings evolve, mirroring their growth and the
unfolding complexities of their world.

Themes

"Attack on Titan" have a multiple themes that reflect the complexities of human nature, societal
structures, and moral dilemmas. The series masterfully intertwines these themes throughout its
narrative, provoking thought and discussion among its audience. Here are some of the key
themes explored in the series:

1. Freedom vs. Confinement – One of the central themes of "Attack on Titan" is the struggle for
freedom. The walls symbolize both safety and imprisonment, representing humanity's desire to
be free from the Titans while also highlighting the sacrifices made for that safety. Eren Yeager's
journey is largely defined by his quest for freedom, which ultimately leads him to make drastic
choices that challenge the very notion of what it means to be free.

2. The Nature of Humanity – The series prompts viewers to consider what it means to be
human. The Titans, once human themselves, raise questions about identity and the potential for
monstrosity within humanity. As the story unfolds, characters grapple with their morals, the
impact of their choices, and the thin line between good and evil. The series challenges the
audience to reflect on the capacity for both altruism and cruelty within individuals.
3. Cycle of Hatred – "Attack on Titan" explores the cyclical nature of hatred and revenge. The
conflict between Eldians and Marleyans serves as a poignant example of how historical
grievances can perpetuate cycles of violence. The series illustrates how characters are often
trapped by their pasts and the consequences of their actions, emphasizing the need for
understanding and reconciliation.

4. Sacrifice and Duty – The theme of sacrifice is prevalent throughout the series, particularly in
the context of duty to one’s comrades and society. Characters often face life-and-death choices,
weighing their personal desires against the greater good. This theme underscores the
complexities of heroism, as characters must navigate loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral
implications of their decisions.

5. Trauma and Its Impact – The series addresses the profound effects of trauma on individuals
and societies. Characters experience loss, fear, and the psychological scars of war, which shape
their motivations and actions. The exploration of trauma serves to humanize the characters,
revealing their vulnerabilities and the burdens they carry as they navigate a world filled with
despair.

6. The Quest for Truth – Throughout the series, the characters are driven by a desire to uncover
the truth about the Titans, their world, and their history. This quest for knowledge becomes a
critical aspect of their development, as they confront uncomfortable realities and the
consequences of their discoveries. The pursuit of truth raises questions about the nature of reality
and the narratives that shape societal beliefs.

7. Friendship and Loyalty – The bonds between characters—especially among the members of
the Survey Corps—highlight the importance of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity.
These relationships provide emotional strength and motivation, emphasizing that human
connections are vital for survival in a world filled with chaos.

8. Power and Oppression – "Attack on Titan" examines the dynamics of power and oppression,
particularly through the lens of the Marleyan government’s treatment of Eldians. The series
critiques the use of power for control and exploitation, prompting discussions about
discrimination, imperialism, and the ethical implications of authority.