Why Eren Started the Rumbling in Attack on Titan?

Why Eren Started the Rumbling in Attack on Titan?


By: HD Stock Images
May 11, 2025
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Eren Yeager is one of the most complex characters in the world of "Attack on Titan." As the story unfolds, we witness his evolution from a passionate, hot-headed young boy to a more calculated and, some would argue, darker figure. His motivations are deeply intertwined with his experiences, the devastating loss of loved ones, and an ingrained desire for freedom. Understanding Eren's mindset is crucial to grasp his ultimate decision to initiate the Rumbling, a key event that shapes the series' climax and moral quandaries.

The Concept of the Rumbling Explained

Attack On Titan The Rumbling Wallpapers  Wallpaper Cave

The Rumbling is a pivotal event in "Attack on Titan," representing both a catastrophic force and a desperate measure for Eren Yeager. To understand the Rumbling, we need to recognize its origin and purpose within the narrative. Essentially, the Rumbling refers to the activation of colossal Titans that reside within the walls of Paradis Island, the last bastion of humanity. These Titans are not just ordinary giants; they are the ancestors of the Eldians and carry immense power that can instill fear or destruction.

At its core, the Rumbling serves as Eren's ultimate weapon against humanity outside of Paradis. After witnessing the horrors and injustices faced by his people due to centuries of conflict and discrimination, Eren concludes that to secure freedom for Eldians, he must eradicate the threat posed by humans who wish to exterminate them. By triggering the Rumbling, Eren aims to mobilize the colossal Titans, unleashing them upon the world to trample everything in their path.

But why resort to such extreme measures? Eren grapples with the notion that peace cannot be achieved without confronting the deep-seated hatred and fear that fuels the conflict between Eldians and the rest of humanity. He believes that by demonstrating unparalleled power, he can instill a sense of fear that will force the global powers to acknowledge Eldian humanity and, perhaps, negotiate peace from a position of strength.

It's essential to consider the philosophical implications of the Rumbling. Eren's choice raises questions about morality and the cost of freedom. Is the sacrifice of countless lives justified for the prospect of peace? This dilemma showcases Eren's internal struggle, as he wrestles with the weight of his decisions and their potential consequences.

  • Fear: Eren believes that the world needs to fear the Eldians, and the Rumbling will serve as a grim reminder of their potential for destruction.
  • Desperation: Driven by a sense of urgency and fear for his friends and family, Eren sees the Rumbling as the only viable option to ensure survival.
  • Complexity of Freedom: Eren's vision of freedom is not just about liberation but about dismantling oppression and securing safety for his people.

In conclusion, the Rumbling symbolizes the culmination of Eren Yeager's character development. It reflects his transformation from a boy dreaming of freedom into a determined individual willing to sacrifice everything for his cause. As we delve deeper into the series, we are compelled to examine not just Eren's actions but also the broader themes of morality, survival, and the true meaning of freedom. The Rumbling isn't merely an apocalyptic event; it's a manifestation of Eren's struggle against a world that refuses to accept him and his people. What does it mean to be free, and at what cost do we achieve that freedom? These questions resonate long after the last Titan has fallen, leaving viewers to ponder the consequences of Eren's fateful decision.

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3. Eren's Transformation Throughout the Series

ATTACK ON TITAN Shiganshina Wall Aot Rumbling Eren Eren Yaeger

From the very first episode of Attack on Titan, Eren Yeager captured our hearts as a passionate, determined young boy whose sole aim was to eradicate the Titans. However, as the series progressed, Eren underwent a profound transformation that left fans both bewildered and captivated. Let's dive into how Eren evolved, shaping him into the complex character we see in the final chapters.

Initially, Eren was driven by a pure desire for freedom and revenge after witnessing the brutal death of his mother at the hands of Titans. This fiery resolve fueled his ambitions as he joined the Survey Corps and fought tirelessly against the horrors that plagued his world. Every battle he faced strengthened his belief that one day, humanity would be free from the Titans’ oppression.

As the narrative advanced, especially after the shocking revelations about the history of the Eldians and the world they inhabit, Eren’s motivations became darker and more nuanced. We began to see a shift from the idealistic hero to a more morally ambiguous figure. This transformation was largely influenced by:

  • Discoveries of Truth: Eren learned about the history of the Eldians and the atrocities committed against them, which gave him a new perspective on his purpose.
  • Influence of Friends and Allies: Characters like Armin and Mikasa influenced Eren’s worldview, pushing him to think beyond simple revenge.
  • Compelling Losses: The deaths of comrades and betrayals led Eren to adopt a more ruthless approach in order to protect those he cared for.

This darkening of his character found its ultimate expression in the latter half of the series, as he began to embrace his Titan powers in ways we could never have imagined. The transformation wasn't just about physical power; it was a deep internal conflict that saw Eren grappling with his identity and the lengths he was willing to go to achieve what he believed was true freedom.

His change was not without consequences, leading to polarized opinions among fans. Some viewed his path as a tragic downfall, while others saw his evolution as a necessary response to the complexities of the world he was born into. In the end, Eren's transformation is a testament to how experiences, relationships, and revelations can radically shift a person’s motivations and ambitions.

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4. The Key Events Leading to the Rumbling

To fully understand Eren's decision to trigger the Rumbling, we need to explore the crucial events that shaped his motivations leading up to this monumental moment. As viewers, we've witnessed a series of pivotal occurrences that not only affected Eren but also the fragile political landscape of the world itself.

Here are some key events that played a significant role in Eren's evolution:

  • The Fall of Wall Maria: The initial breach of Wall Maria set off a catastrophic series of events. This incident was the first wake-up call for Eren, igniting his desire for revenge.
  • The Discovery of the Basement: When Eren and his friends finally accessed his father’s basement, they uncovered the truth about their world, including the existence of Marley and the history of the Eldians. This revelation was a turning point that shifted Eren's understanding of freedom.
  • Annie’s Capture: The capture of the Female Titan sparked questions about loyalty, betrayal, and the implications of power. Eren’s confrontation with Annie further complicated his feelings about the Titans and his personal conflicts.
  • The War with Marley: Eren’s participation in the war against Marley showcased a significant shift in tactics. He began to see the need for extreme measures to protect his own people, leading to a bend in his moral compass.
  • The Death of Key Characters: The loss of friends and allies, particularly during the battle against Marley, solidified Eren's resolve. These experiences cemented his belief that striking first was the only way to ensure the survival of his people.

All these events culminated in Eren making the momentous decision to unleash the Rumbling. The stakes were higher than ever, and Eren believed that achieving true freedom for his people meant taking drastic actions. This decision, though controversial, reflected his complex character and the desperate circumstances that drove him to such lengths. As fans of the series reflect on Eren's journey, it inevitably raises questions about morality, freedom, and what it truly means to protect those we love.

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5. Eren's Ideologies and Beliefs

Eren Yeager, the protagonist of Attack on Titan, undergoes a profound transformation throughout the series, especially evident in his push to trigger the Rumbling. At first glance, Eren appears driven by a simple desire for freedom and revenge against his enemies. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that his motivations are steeped in complex ideologies and deep-seated beliefs.

One of the core aspects of Eren's belief system is his unwavering commitment to freedom. Early in the series, he expresses a fierce desire to eradicate the Titans to secure a safe world for his friends and loved ones. This notion evolves as he grapples with the revelations surrounding the history of Titans, Marley, and Eldians. Ultimately, Eren comes to see freedom not solely as a means of escape but as a radical notion that must be defended at all costs, even if it involves making moral compromises.

Another integral ideology for Eren is the concept of fate versus free will. Throughout the series, Eren wrestles with the idea that his actions may be predetermined by inherited memories and the history tied to the Founding Titan. This struggle profoundly influences his decisions. When Eren triggers the Rumbling, he embraces a deterministic worldview, believing that he must fulfill his role in a cycle of violence and oppression. His choice, therefore, becomes a tragic acceptance of this fate, positioning him as both the architect of his destiny and a victim of historical forces beyond his control.

Moreover, Eren's evolving beliefs reflect a significant shift towards nihilism. As he encounters the painful realities of war and the human condition, he begins to view the world as irredeemable, where cycles of hatred and violence are inescapable. This perspective manifests in his willingness to sacrifice countless lives in the pursuit of what he perceives as the only path to liberation for his people.

Ultimately, Eren's ideologies and beliefs create a multifaceted character who embodies the complexities of human motivation—caught between love, hatred, freedom, and the burdens of history. His tragic flaw lies in the extreme measures he believes are necessary to achieve a world free from the Titans. As a result, Eren becomes a deeply polarizing figure, leading to heated debates among fans regarding whether his actions can be justified or if he has simply become the very monster he sought to destroy.

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6. The Role of Other Characters in Eren's Decision

No character in Attack on Titan exists in a vacuum, and Eren's decision to trigger the Rumbling is heavily influenced by the actions and beliefs of those around him. While Eren's motivations stem from his personal ideologies, the interactions with other central characters shape and amplify his resolve.

A prime influence on Eren is Mikasa Ackerman. As one of Eren's closest friends and allies, her unwavering support and dedication to him create a bond that deeply affects Eren's choices. However, Mikasa’s perspective on freedom and her sense of duty present a stark contrast to Eren's more radical path. This dichotomy leads Eren to question the nature of dependence and autonomy in their relationship, ultimately influencing his feelings of isolation and pushing him further into the abyss of his convictions.

Another crucial character is Armin Arlert, who embodies the voice of reason throughout the series. Eren's contrasting ideals with Armin serve to illustrate the emotional conflicts Eren faces. Despite being a close friend, Armin's perspective on peace and coexistence challenges Eren’s extreme worldview. This contrast not only amplifies Eren's internal struggle, but also makes his decision to embrace the Rumbling more tragic as it dismisses the possibility for a different resolution—one that Armin fervently believes in.

Furthermore, Reiner Braun, as an antagonist turned ally, is pivotal to Eren's evolving mindset. Reiner’s experiences as a warrior for Marley and his internal conflicts mirror those of Eren. Their encounters force Eren to confront the idea that individuals on opposing sides often possess similar motivations rooted in survival and protection of their comrades. This duality exacerbates Eren’s belief in his chosen, albeit destructive, path as he sees the continuation of cycles of hatred through lenses reflecting his own struggles.

Finally, {Zeke Yeager}, Eren's half-brother, plays a vital role in shaping Eren's ultimate decision. Their shared history, marked by contrasting philosophies regarding freedom and oppression, culminates in the plans for the Rumbling. Zeke's vision of euthanasia for the Eldians and desire to eliminate the Titan curse clash with Eren's ruthless methodology, but his presence solidifies Eren's resolve to initiate the catastrophic event.

In conclusion, while Eren’s beliefs lead him down a harrowing path, the influence of his friends, enemies, and familial ties enriches this narrative arc. Each character's presence serves as a mirror reflecting different facets of Eren’s psyche, either amplifying his convictions or challenging them—making his tragic fate both a personal and shared consequence of their intertwined destinies.

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7. Impact of the Rumbling on the Storyline

When we talk about the Rumbling in Attack on Titan, we’re delving into one of the most pivotal moments in the series that radically shifts the trajectory of the storyline. The Rumbling isn't just a plot device; it’s a cataclysmic event that redefines the characters’ relationships and the world at large.

First, let's consider the immediate ramifications for the characters. Eren, having activated the Rumbling, transforms from a tortured friend into an antagonist in many eyes, driving a wedge between him and his former companions, like Mikasa and Armin. This fracture illustrates how his motivations have evolved—he no longer fights for humanity’s survival in a traditional sense but instead adopts a more drastic solution to ensure freedom for his people.

Moreover, the stakes are raised dramatically. The Rumbling presents an existential threat not just to Marley but to the entirety of humanity living outside the Walls. This shift in power dynamics forces characters, including those who initially stood as Eren’s allies, to contemplate extreme measures. Are they prepared to go to war against a former friend? Will they join forces with those they once called enemies? These questions fuel the tension throughout the latter part of the series.

The societal contrast is another significant element. The Rumbling serves as a grim reminder of the cycle of hatred and vengeance that plagues the world. As entire cities fall to the footsteps of the colossal Titans, readers are compelled to reflect on the moral implications of war, the cost of survival, and the question of whether true peace can ever be achieved through violence.

As a narrative catalyst, the Rumbling sets off a domino effect, leading to alliances, confrontations, and heartbreaking decisions. Characters like Historia and even former enemies must grapple with the reality of a world where their actions could trigger a catastrophic future. This narrative complexity aligns perfectly with the series' overarching themes of freedom, power, and human nature.

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8. Thematic Elements of Freedom and Survival

At its core, Attack on Titan explores two deeply intertwined themes: freedom and survival. Eren's decision to trigger the Rumbling poignantly encapsulates these themes and raises unsettling questions about what it means to be free.

*Freedom is portrayed as a fundamental desire for every character in the series. Eren's newfound resolve to unleash the Rumbling is steeped in his quest to liberate his people from the fear of annihilation. Yet, this quest comes at a harrowing cost. The destruction of countless lives challenges the definition of freedom—can one man’s freedom justify the mass suffering of others? This moral ambiguity forces viewers to confront painful realities about the consequences of the fight for liberation.

On the flip side, we have survival, often depicted in stark, brutal terms. The series paints an unrelenting picture of survivalism, where the instinct to survive can drive individuals to heinous acts. With the Rumbling, Eren embodies this concept, believing that the only way for his people to survive is to eliminate the threats facing them, thus raising the stakes to an unprecedented level.

The series also invites dialogue about the intersection of these two themes. For Eren, the choices he makes reveal a warped sense of freedom—where the preservation of his own kind is prioritized above conventional morality, suggesting that true freedom may be an illusion when steeped in bloodshed.

In essence, the thematic exploration of freedom and survival is not just a backdrop but the very essence of character motivations and decisions. The aftermath of the Rumbling leaves a stark reminder that what we often perceive as freedom can sometimes lead us down a path fraught with ethical dilemmas and dire consequences. As the narrative unfolds, it challenges us to contemplate what lengths we would go to secure our own freedom and the moral implications of those actions.

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9. Fan Reactions and Theories about Eren's Actions

The complex nature of Eren Yeager's motivations in Attack on Titan has sparked vibrant discussions among fans. Many viewers have been drawn into an intricate web of theories, dissecting Eren’s choices and questioning his morality. The divisive opinions reflect a rich tapestry of interpretations, each illuminating different aspects of his character development.

One of the most prominent theories suggests that Eren's actions are a reflection of his tragic childhood. Many fans argue that his relentless pursuit of freedom stems from witnessing the horrors inflicted upon his friends and family. The scars of war are deeply imprinted on him, leading to a belief that the only way to achieve lasting peace is through the Rumbling*, regardless of its moral ramifications.

Another popular theory revolves around the notion of fate. Eren’s ability to see the memories of future inheritors of the Attack Titan raises numerous questions. Some fans theorize that he is merely a pawn in a larger game orchestrated by the memories passed down through time. This perspective suggests that Eren's decision to initiate the Rumbling was not purely his own but rather a predestined outcome shaped by the Titan's curse. This theme of fate versus free will has resonated strongly within the fandom, spurring debates about whether Eren is acting of his own accord or simply fulfilling a narrative loop.

Of course, reactions haven't been uniformly positive. Many fans are frustrated with Eren's morally ambiguous actions, viewing his choice to mass murder as a betrayal of his character's initial values. The shift from a brave hero to what some see as a villain has led to heated discussions about the nature of heroism and the ethics of warfare. Some viewers believe that Eren's drastic change serves as a critique of cyclical violence, pushing audiences to grapple with the consequences of their actions.

Furthermore, fan artists and writers have contributed to the conversation, producing compelling fan theories and works that explore alternate scenarios or motivations. Some have reimagined Eren’s journey through fanfiction, envisioning storylines where he embraces different ideals or seeks peaceful resolutions. The creativity of the fandom showcases the diverse interpretations of Eren’s character and the story itself, fueling discussions on social media platforms and forums.

Ultimately, the reactions to Eren’s actions are as varied as the fan base itself. From spirited defenses of his motives to passionate condemnations of his choices, the dialogue surrounding Eren Yeager continues to evolve. The beauty of Attack on Titan lies not just in its storytelling but in how it invites its audience to engage deeply with themes of morality, freedom, and the consequences of our choices.

10. Conclusion: Understanding Eren's Choices and Their Consequences

As we draw to a close on our exploration of Eren Yeager's motivations, it's essential to comprehend the broader implications of his choices in Attack on Titan. Eren's decision to trigger the Rumbling is a narrative hub around which themes of freedom, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity revolve. His character arc raises profound questions about the cost of pursuing one’s ideals, highlighting the fine line between heroism and villainy.

Understanding Eren's actions requires a multilayered approach. He is portrayed as a deeply flawed individual grappling with the weight of inherited trauma, societal pressures, and the desire for liberation. While some may categorize him as a villain, others argue that he embodies the tragic hero archetype—a character whose fall stems from noble intentions gone awry.

The consequences of Eren's choices ripple throughout the world of Attack on Titan. His actions challenge viewers to reconsider their preconceptions about justice and morality. The mass destruction he unleashes serves as a stark reminder of the devastation that can come from a singular focus on one's ideals. In exploring these consequences, fans are encouraged to confront their feelings around the cycle of violence and the possibilities for genuine understanding between conflicting parties.

Moreover, the series ultimately leaves us with an important lesson about the complexity of human emotions and motivations. Eren’s journey invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the real-world implications of extreme actions, urging us to consider alternatives to violence and devastation.

In conclusion, Eren Yeager’s character serves as a catalyst for critical conversations about freedom, the impacts of war, and the moral dilemmas that arise in the pursuit of one’s goals. As fans continue to debate and theorize about his actions, the legacy of Eren's choices will undoubtedly influence discourse well beyond the anime community, encouraging a deeper understanding of what it means to seek change in a world fraught with conflict.

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