Could Attack on Titan be seen as an allegory for what happens when oppressed people take power and use brutal oppression tactics?

Introduction

Attack on Titan, a popular anime and manga series, can definitely be interpreted as an allegory for the cycle of oppression and revenge. The series "Attack on Titan" explores the complexities and moral ambiguities that arise when oppressed groups gain power. Through vivid storytelling and deep character development, the series raises profound questions about freedom, sacrifice, and the true nature of justice.

Key Points Supporting the Interpretation

Cycle of Oppression

The main storyline of Attack on Titan revolved around the Eldian people's oppression by the Marleyan government. This backdrop sets the stage for the series to explore the cycle of oppression. When the Eldians regain power under the leadership of characters like Eren Yeager, they often employ brutal and oppressive tactics against their former oppressors, mirroring the cruelty they themselves suffered. This cyclical pattern of violence underscores the inherent difficulties in breaking free from a cycle of oppression.

Moral Ambiguity

The narrative consistently challenges the simple distinction between heroes and villains, resulting in a morally ambiguous world. Characters often grapple with internal conflicts, making it challenging for the audience to fully align with any single perspective. This ambiguity underscores the complex nature of achieving justice and highlights the potential for further violence and suffering if revenge is sought.

Consequences of Power

The series delves into the corrupting nature of power, even among those who once suffered. Eren’s transformation into a figure who perpetuates mass destruction raises significant ethical questions. The series asks whether the ends justify the means and whether the use of violence to achieve liberation is ethical or just perpetuates a cycle of hatred and suffering.

Historical Parallels

The themes of Attack on Titan resonate with real-world historical events. Throughout history, oppressed groups that have gained power have sometimes enacted revenge against their oppressors, leading to new forms of oppression. By drawing parallels to such events, the series invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of justice and the potential for repeating historical mistakes.

Philosophical Questions

The series raises deep philosophical questions about freedom, sacrifice, and the true cost of achieving one’s goals. It prompts viewers to consider whether true liberation can be achieved through violent means or if such actions only perpetuate a cycle of hatred and suffering. The series challenges the audience to think critically about the moral implications of their actions in the face of historical and contemporary struggles for justice.

Conclusion

Overall, Attack on Titan serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the dynamics of power, oppression, and revenge. By providing a nuanced and morally complex narrative, the series encourages viewers to reflect on these issues in the context of both historical and contemporary struggles for justice. The series invites viewers to question the ethical implications of their actions and the potential consequences of seeking revenge or maintaining oppressive power structures.

For further exploration, the series offers Attack on Titan reviews and discussions on how the show reflects real-world historical events and societal issues. The deep and thought-provoking nature of the series makes it a valuable subject for scholarly analysis and philosophical discourse.