The finale of Attack on Titan stays true to the cynical and destructive tone that has defined the series, emphasizing humanity’s capacity for destruction and the repetition of its worst impulses. Eren Yeager’s character arc showcases his traumatizing experience as a boy and his desire to seek vengeance against the Titans. His morally binary view of the world and inability to see shades of gray contribute to his transformation into a villain.
Eren’s descent into villainy is marked by his alienation from friends and quest for power. However, his connection with Mikasa acknowledges that even the most horrific individuals can have loved ones and be important to them. This complexity is what makes Eren’s character arc so compelling and, ultimately, devastating.
Eren’s flaws are rooted in his morally binary view of the world and his difficulty grappling with the idea of gray areas in human nature. His inability to empathize with those he deems enemies, no matter how well-meaning they may be, ultimately leads to his downfall.
Armin in Attack On Titan (Via IMDB)
Eren’s transformation into a villain is a masterclass in dramatic storytelling. He masterminds a scheme to travel back in time and ensure the death of his mother, guaranteeing his motivation to avenge his people by wiping out the Marleyans. His actions lead to a catastrophic war, and it is ultimately Mikasa’s burden to kill Eren and save the world.
What makes Eren’s trajectory as a villain so effective is that, despite all he’s gone through in his life, he remains fundamentally the same person at his core. His vow to kill all Marleyans is a testament to his inability to see beyond his own ego and desire for revenge.
