Why Did Eren Start The Rumbling
In the gripping narrative of "Attack on Titan," Eren Yeager's decision to initiate the Rumbling, a catastrophic event that threatens the very existence of humanity, is a pivotal and complex moment. This drastic action is multifaceted, driven by a combination of Eren's personal motivations, the historical and cultural context in which he operates, and strategic considerations. To fully understand why Eren chose this path, it is essential to delve into these various factors. This article will explore how Eren's emotional state and personal motivations played a crucial role in his decision, how the historical and cultural context shaped his worldview, and the strategic and tactical implications of his actions. By examining these elements, we can gain a deeper insight into the psyche of Eren Yeager and the events that led him to unleash the Rumbling. Let us begin by examining the emotional and psychological landscape that drove Eren to make such a drastic choice.
Eren's Motivation and Emotional State
In the gripping narrative of "Attack on Titan," Eren Yeager's journey is a complex tapestry woven from threads of trauma, betrayal, and an unyielding desire for change. His motivation and emotional state are deeply intertwined with the pivotal events that shape his character. The trauma he experiences, particularly the loss of his mother and the destruction of his home, sets the stage for a profound emotional scar that drives his actions. Additionally, the sense of betrayal he feels towards those who have wronged him and his people fuels his anger and determination. As the series progresses, Eren's desperation for change becomes a driving force, propelling him to make radical decisions that impact not only his own life but the fate of humanity. This article delves into these three critical aspects—trauma and loss, sense of betrayal, and desperation for change—to understand the intricate dynamics of Eren's motivation and emotional state, offering a nuanced exploration of what makes him tick. By examining these elements, we gain a deeper insight into the psychological and emotional landscape that defines Eren Yeager.
1. Trauma and Loss
Eren Yeager's motivation and emotional state are deeply intertwined with the profound trauma and loss he has endured throughout his life. From a young age, Eren witnessed the brutal slaughter of his mother by Titans, an event that not only left him with physical scars but also instilled in him a deep-seated anger and desire for revenge. This traumatic experience set the stage for his future actions, as he became consumed by a relentless drive to reclaim Wall Maria and eradicate the Titans that had destroyed his family and community. The loss of his mother, combined with the subsequent loss of friends and comrades in the fight against the Titans, further solidified his resolve. Each tragedy reinforced his conviction that the only way to ensure the survival of humanity was through the complete annihilation of the Titans. Eren's emotional state is characterized by a complex mix of grief, anger, and a sense of responsibility. The weight of his past traumas has led to a significant emotional burden, often manifesting as intense rage and a willingness to go to extreme lengths to achieve his goals. His experiences have also fostered a deep sense of isolation; despite being part of the Scout Regiment, Eren feels disconnected from others due to the unique nature of his suffering. This isolation exacerbates his feelings of loneliness and fuels his determination to take drastic measures, even if it means alienating those around him. Moreover, Eren's exposure to the Founding Titan's powers and his subsequent interactions with the Coordinate have provided him with a broader understanding of the world's history and the true nature of the Titans. This newfound knowledge has heightened his sense of purpose but also intensified his feelings of trauma and loss. He now sees himself as a key player in a much larger narrative, one where he must confront not just the immediate threat of the Titans but also the historical injustices that have led to the current state of the world. In essence, Eren's actions are driven by a profound sense of trauma and loss that has shaped his worldview and emotional state. His relentless pursuit of revenge against the Titans is not merely a reaction to past events but a deeply personal crusade fueled by the cumulative weight of his experiences. This complex interplay between trauma, loss, and motivation underscores why Eren feels compelled to initiate the Rumbling—a catastrophic event aimed at reshaping the world according to his vision of justice and survival. Through this lens, it becomes clear that Eren's decisions are not simply those of a vengeful individual but those of someone who has been irrevocably changed by the traumas he has faced.
2. Sense of Betrayal
Eren Yeager's sense of betrayal is a pivotal element in understanding his motivation and emotional state, particularly as it pertains to his decision to initiate the Rumbling. This profound feeling of betrayal stems from multiple layers of deception and abandonment that he experienced throughout his life. Initially, it was the trauma inflicted by the Titans, who devoured his mother and destroyed his home in Shiganshina, leaving him with an indelible scar. However, as the series progresses, it becomes clear that Eren's sense of betrayal extends far beyond these initial events. One of the most significant betrayals Eren feels is from the very people he trusted and considered friends. The revelation that his friends and allies, particularly those within the Scout Regiment, were aware of the truth about the Titans and the Founding Titan but chose not to share it with him, deeply wounded him. This lack of transparency and trust made Eren feel isolated and misunderstood, exacerbating his feelings of betrayal. Furthermore, the fact that his closest friends were willing to restrain him and limit his power for the sake of peace, without fully understanding his perspective or the depth of his suffering, further solidified his belief that he was being betrayed by those he cared about most. Additionally, Eren's sense of betrayal is deeply intertwined with his perception of the world's injustices. He feels betrayed by the historical narrative that has been imposed upon him and his people—the Eldians—who have been oppressed and marginalized for centuries. The discovery of the truth about Marley's atrocities against Eldians and the manipulation of history to justify these actions only fueled his anger and sense of betrayal. This collective betrayal by society at large made Eren question everything he had been taught and believed in, leading him to seek a radical solution to rectify these injustices. The culmination of these betrayals—personal, societal, and historical—culminates in Eren's decision to start the Rumbling. For him, this act is not merely an act of revenge but a necessary step towards reclaiming power and dignity for his people. In his mind, the Rumbling represents a means to break free from the shackles of oppression and deception that have haunted Eldians for generations. It is an attempt to rewrite history on his own terms, ensuring that no one else will suffer the same betrayals he endured. In essence, Eren's sense of betrayal is not just an emotional response but a driving force behind his actions. It shapes his worldview, influences his relationships, and ultimately motivates him to take drastic measures in pursuit of justice and liberation. Understanding this complex interplay between betrayal and motivation provides a deeper insight into Eren's character and the underlying reasons behind his decision to initiate the Rumbling.
3. Desperation for Change
Eren's desperation for change is a pivotal factor in his motivation and emotional state, driving him to initiate the Rumbling. This desperation stems from a deep-seated frustration with the status quo and a profound sense of injustice. Growing up in a world where Eldians are oppressed, marginalized, and brutalized by other nations, Eren witnessed firsthand the horrors of discrimination and violence. The traumatic events of his childhood, particularly the brutal murder of his mother and the destruction of his home, Shiganshina, by the Titans, left indelible scars. These experiences fueled his anger and resentment towards the world that allowed such atrocities to occur. As Eren delved deeper into the mysteries of the Titans and the Founding Titan's powers, he became increasingly disillusioned with the existing power structures. He realized that the Eldian people were not just victims but also pawns in a much larger game controlled by those who wielded power and manipulated history. This realization ignited a fierce determination within him to challenge the status quo and seek justice for his people. Eren's interactions with characters like Armin and Mikasa further solidified his resolve; their shared experiences and unwavering support reinforced his belief that change was not only necessary but also possible. However, as time progressed and Eren faced repeated betrayals and setbacks, his desperation evolved into an all-consuming obsession. The failure of peaceful negotiations and the continued oppression of Eldians convinced him that drastic measures were required to bring about the change he sought. His emotional state became increasingly volatile, marked by intense anger, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness. This emotional turmoil was exacerbated by the weight of his responsibilities as the leader of the Scout Regiment and the holder of the Founding Titan's powers. Eren's desperation for change ultimately led him to embrace a radical solution: the Rumbling. By unleashing the Titans on the world, he aimed to level the playing field and create a new order where Eldians would no longer be subjugated. This decision was not taken lightly; it was a culmination of years of suffering, frustration, and a deep-seated desire for justice. Despite the moral ambiguities and potential consequences of his actions, Eren saw the Rumbling as the only viable path to achieving true freedom for his people. His emotional state, marked by desperation and a sense of urgency, drove him to take this drastic step, believing it was the only way to ensure a future where Eldians could live without fear of persecution. This complex interplay of emotions and motivations underscores the depth of Eren's character and highlights the profound impact of his experiences on his actions.
The Influence of Historical and Cultural Context
The intricate tapestry of historical and cultural context plays a pivotal role in shaping the narratives of our world, particularly in the realm of fiction where characters' motivations and emotional states are deeply influenced by their past. In the acclaimed series "Attack on Titan," this concept is vividly illustrated through the complex interplay of Eldian history, Marleyan oppression, and the legacy of the Founding Titan. The Eldian people's history, marked by suffering and resilience, sets the stage for a narrative of survival and resistance. The oppressive regime of Marley, with its systemic brutality and ideological manipulation, further exacerbates the tensions and fuels the desire for liberation. At the heart of this conflict lies the enigmatic power and legacy of the Founding Titan, a symbol of both hope and despair. These elements collectively contribute to the rich backdrop against which Eren Yeager's journey unfolds, influencing his motivations and emotional state as he navigates a world fraught with violence, betrayal, and the quest for freedom. Understanding these historical and cultural contexts is essential to grasping Eren's transformation from a traumatized boy to a driven leader, and how his experiences shape his ultimate destiny.
1. Eldian History and Suffering
The history and suffering of the Eldians are pivotal elements in understanding the motivations behind Eren Yeager's decision to initiate the Rumbling. For centuries, the Eldians have endured unimaginable hardship and oppression, their existence marked by periods of enslavement, genocide, and marginalization. The origins of their suffering date back to the ancient times when they were subjugated by the Marleyans, who exploited their unique ability to transform into Titans. This period saw the Eldians being forced into ghettos and subjected to brutal treatment, their culture and identity systematically erased. The turning point in Eldian history came with the Great Calamity, an event triggered by Ymir Fritz's powers that led to the creation of the Titans and the subsequent devastation of the world. This catastrophe resulted in the Eldians being confined to the island of Paradis, where they lived in a state of constant fear and isolation. The walls that protected them from the Titans also served as a physical and psychological barrier, reinforcing their sense of vulnerability and dependency on their oppressors. The trauma inflicted upon the Eldians was further compounded by the internal strife and betrayal within their own ranks. The Founding Titan's power, which had been used to protect and enslave them, became a symbol of both their salvation and their curse. This duality is reflected in Eren's own conflicted identity: he is both a savior to his people and a force of destruction to others. Eren's actions are deeply rooted in this historical context. His desire for freedom and revenge against those who have wronged his people drives him to seek the eradication of all life outside Paradis. The Rumbling, a catastrophic event that unleashes the Titans upon the world, is Eren's ultimate act of defiance against centuries of oppression. It represents a desperate attempt to ensure that no other nation can ever threaten or enslave the Eldians again, even if it means sacrificing countless innocent lives. In this light, Eren's decision is not merely an act of madness but a culmination of generations of suffering and a desperate bid for self-preservation. The historical and cultural context of the Eldians' plight underscores the complexity of Eren's character and the moral ambiguities of his actions. It highlights how deeply ingrained trauma and a quest for justice can lead individuals to extreme measures, challenging readers to reflect on the nature of violence, revenge, and the true cost of freedom.
2. Marleyan Oppression
The Marleyan oppression is a pivotal element in understanding the historical and cultural context that drives Eren Yeager's actions, particularly his decision to initiate the Rumbling in the series "Attack on Titan." Marley, a nation with a long history of imperialism and racial supremacy, has systematically oppressed the Eldian people for centuries. This oppression is rooted in a complex web of historical events, cultural biases, and societal structures that have perpetuated violence and discrimination against Eldians. Historically, Marley's dominance over Eldia was solidified through the use of Titans, monstrous beings that were once humans but were transformed by the Founding Titan's power. The Marleyans exploited this power to subjugate Eldians, forcing them into ghettos and subjecting them to brutal treatment. This period of subjugation was marked by forced assimilation, cultural erasure, and genocide, which deeply ingrained a sense of inferiority and fear among Eldians. The trauma inflicted during this era has been passed down through generations, contributing to a collective psyche of resentment and desire for liberation. Culturally, Marleyan society is built on a narrative of racial superiority, where Eldians are viewed as inferior beings. This narrative is reinforced through propaganda, education, and social norms that dehumanize Eldians. The Marleyans have created a mythos around their own history, portraying themselves as heroes who saved humanity from the "devilish" Eldians. This cultural construct not only justifies their oppressive actions but also perpetuates a cycle of hatred and violence. The societal structures within Marley further entrench this oppression. The military-industrial complex of Marley relies heavily on the exploitation of Eldian labor and resources. Eldians are forced into military service as "Warriors," who are tasked with fighting Titans on behalf of Marley while being treated as second-class citizens. This systemic exploitation ensures that Eldians remain in a state of perpetual subjugation, unable to challenge their oppressors effectively. Eren Yeager's decision to start the Rumbling is deeply influenced by this historical and cultural context. Having experienced firsthand the atrocities committed by Marley against his people, Eren becomes driven by a desire for revenge and liberation. The Rumbling, a catastrophic event that unleashes Titans upon the world, is Eren's attempt to level the playing field and exact vengeance on those who have oppressed his people for so long. It is a desperate measure born out of centuries of suffering, trauma, and resistance against an oppressive regime that has left no other viable options for the Eldian people. In summary, the Marleyan oppression serves as a critical backdrop for understanding Eren's actions. It highlights how historical injustices, cultural narratives of superiority, and systemic exploitation can lead to profound resentment and a desire for radical change. This context underscores the complexity of Eren's character and the motivations behind his decisions, making his journey a compelling exploration of resistance, liberation, and the consequences of unchecked power.