Is Eren Yeager Evil? Analyzing the Complex Character from Attack on Titan
Eren Yeager, the protagonist of the popular manga and anime series Attack on Titan, is a character known for his morally complex journey. Throughout the series, Eren's actions raise questions about his alignment, leaving fans wondering if he is truly evil. In this article, we will delve into Eren Yeager's character, examining his motivations, moral choices, and the debate surrounding his morality. Let's explore the depths of Eren Yeager's character and attempt to answer the question: Is he evil?
is eren yeager evil
1. Understanding Eren Yeager's Character:
To comprehend Eren's morality, we must first understand his character and the world he inhabits.
Eren is a young man living in a dystopian world dominated by Titans, gigantic humanoid creatures that prey on humanity. As a member of the Survey Corps, he becomes determined to eradicate the Titans and protect his people.
2. The Complexity of Eren's Motivations:
Eren's motivations evolve throughout the series, contributing to the ambiguity surrounding his morality. Initially driven by a desire for revenge against the Titans, Eren's perspective expands as he uncovers hidden truths about his world.
His goals shift to achieving freedom for humanity and uncovering the secrets of the Titans.
3. Moral Ambiguity:
The Utilitarian Perspective: One way to analyze Eren's morality is through a utilitarian lens. Utilitarianism evaluates actions based on their consequences, aiming to maximize overall happiness or minimize suffering.
Eren's actions can be seen as utilitarian in nature, as he believes that sacrificing some lives to achieve freedom and ensure the survival of his people is justified.
is eren yeager evil
4. Moral Ambiguity: The Deontological Perspective:
Alternatively, Eren's actions can be examined through a deontological perspective, which focuses on the inherent moral principles of an action.
Some argue that Eren's methods, such as causing massive destruction and loss of innocent lives, violate these principles, making him morally questionable or even evil.
5. The Ethical Dilemma of the Rumbling:
One of the key moments that sparks the debate about Eren's morality is the "Rumbling." The Rumbling is a cataclysmic event in which Eren initiates a plan to unleash the power of the Titans, resulting in the destruction of the world beyond the walls.
Supporters argue that Eren's choice is a necessary evil to protect his people, while critics see it as an act of unforgivable villainy.
6. Eren's Internal Struggle:
Throughout the series, Eren experiences an internal struggle between his ideals and the brutal reality he faces.
This internal conflict adds depth to his character and further blurs the line between good and evil. It prompts questions about the extent to which circumstances can justify morally questionable actions.
7. Interpretations and Fan Reactions:
The ambiguity surrounding Eren's morality has sparked intense debate among fans. Opinions vary widely, with some viewing Eren as a tragic hero driven to extreme measures, while others condemn him as a villain who has lost his way.
The diverse interpretations of Eren's character demonstrate the complexity and depth of his portrayal.
Determining whether Eren Yeager is evil is a subjective and thought-provoking question. The character's development throughout the Attack on Titan series challenges traditional notions of heroism and morality. Eren's complex motivations, moral choices, and the ethical dilemmas he faces contribute to the ongoing debate. Ultimately, whether Eren is considered evil or not depends on individual perspectives and personal interpretations of his character. Attack on Titan invites us to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the moral gray areas that exist within us all.