Do You Think Armored Titan Would Do The Same For Historia As Armin
In the intricate and morally ambiguous world of Attack on Titan, the Armored Titan, primarily piloted by Reiner Braun, has been a figure of immense strength, internal conflict, and controversial decisions. One of the most debated moments involving the Armored Titan is Reiner's choice to rescue Armin Arlert from a dire situation, a decision that has sparked countless discussions among fans. This action raises a compelling question: Would the Armored Titan have made the same choice if the person in danger had been Historia Reiss instead of Armin? This article delves deep into the complexities of this question, examining Reiner’s character, his relationships with both Armin and Historia, and the circumstances surrounding the critical moment of decision.
Understanding Reiner Braun and the Armored Titan
To understand Reiner's actions, it's essential to dissect his character and the dual identity he carries as both a warrior of Marley and a member of the Survey Corps. Reiner is a character deeply scarred by his past and burdened by the mission instilled in him since childhood – to retrieve the Founding Titan. This mission, coupled with the intense pressure and the traumatic experiences on Paradis Island, led to the development of a dissociative identity, where he grapples between being a loyal Marleyan warrior and a comrade to his fellow soldiers. This internal conflict profoundly influences his decisions, making him a complex and often unpredictable character.
The Armored Titan itself is a symbol of Reiner's immense power and resilience. Its hardened exterior reflects Reiner's attempt to shield himself from the emotional and psychological trauma he endures. However, this armor also represents a barrier, hindering his ability to form genuine connections and express his true feelings. The dichotomy between Reiner's armored exterior and his vulnerable interior is a recurring theme throughout the series, highlighting his struggle to reconcile his duty with his humanity.
Reiner's Relationship with Armin
Reiner’s relationship with Armin is multifaceted, characterized by a mix of camaraderie, respect, and perhaps even a sense of guilt. During their time in the 104th Training Corps, Reiner acted as a sort of older brother figure to his comrades, including Armin. He provided guidance, support, and a sense of security. This bond, forged in the crucible of training and battle, created a genuine connection between them. Reiner recognized Armin’s sharp intellect and strategic capabilities, often relying on his insights during critical situations. Armin, in turn, admired Reiner’s strength and leadership, viewing him as a dependable ally.
However, the revelation of Reiner’s true identity as the Armored Titan shattered this bond, leaving Armin feeling betrayed and disillusioned. Despite this betrayal, there remained a sense of understanding, if not forgiveness, between them. Reiner’s internal conflict was evident in his interactions with Armin, as he grappled with the consequences of his actions and the pain he had caused. The complexity of their relationship underscores the tragic nature of the conflict in Attack on Titan, where friendships are tested and loyalties are torn apart by the machinations of war and political intrigue.
Reiner's Relationship with Historia
Reiner’s relationship with Historia is different. While he cares for her as a comrade, their connection isn't as deeply personal or emotionally charged as his bond with Armin. Historia, with her own complex past and the burden of her royal lineage, presents a different dynamic. Reiner sees Historia as someone he needs to protect, particularly given her vulnerability and the immense responsibility placed upon her shoulders. He recognizes her strength and her compassionate nature, admiring her commitment to her people. However, their interactions are often more formal and less intimate, reflecting the different roles they play within the group.
Historia's character arc is marked by her journey from a submissive and self-sacrificing persona to a strong and independent leader. This transformation resonates with Reiner’s own struggles, as he too grapples with his identity and his place in the world. While Reiner may admire Historia’s resilience, their connection lacks the shared experiences and emotional intimacy that define his relationship with Armin. This distinction is crucial when considering whether Reiner would make the same choice for Historia as he did for Armin.
The Critical Moment: Reiner's Decision
The moment in question is a pivotal scene in Attack on Titan, where Armin is in mortal danger, and Reiner, in his Armored Titan form, makes a split-second decision to intervene. This decision is driven by a complex interplay of factors, including Reiner’s personal feelings for Armin, his strategic assessment of the situation, and his internal struggle between his Marleyan duty and his human compassion.
Analyzing the Factors Behind Reiner's Choice
Several key factors likely influenced Reiner’s decision to save Armin. First and foremost, there is the personal connection they share. Reiner’s bond with Armin, forged through shared experiences and mutual respect, cannot be easily dismissed. Despite the betrayal and the conflict, the emotional connection remains a powerful force in Reiner’s psyche. This connection likely triggered a visceral reaction in Reiner, compelling him to act in Armin’s defense.
Secondly, Reiner’s strategic mind plays a role. Armin is a valuable asset to the group, a brilliant tactician whose insights have proven crucial in numerous battles. Reiner recognizes Armin’s strategic importance and understands the potential consequences of losing him. This strategic consideration likely factored into his decision-making process, adding a layer of calculated rationale to his emotional impulse.
Finally, Reiner's internal conflict is a significant factor. He constantly battles his dual identities and struggles to reconcile his duty as a Marleyan warrior with his human compassion. Saving Armin can be seen as an act of defiance against his Marleyan conditioning, a moment where his humanity overrides his indoctrination. This internal struggle makes Reiner’s decision all the more poignant, highlighting the tragic nature of his character and the moral ambiguities of the world he inhabits.
Would Reiner Do the Same for Historia?
Considering the complexities of Reiner's character and his relationships, the question of whether he would make the same choice for Historia is not easily answered. While Reiner undoubtedly cares for Historia and values her as a comrade, the depth of his emotional connection with her is different from his bond with Armin. This difference in emotional intensity is a crucial factor in determining his potential actions.
Arguments for Reiner Saving Historia
There are arguments to be made for Reiner saving Historia in a similar situation. Historia's royal lineage and her role as the Queen of Paradis Island make her an invaluable asset. Her death would have significant political and strategic ramifications, potentially destabilizing the island and jeopardizing the mission. From a purely strategic standpoint, saving Historia could be seen as a logical decision.
Moreover, Reiner possesses a strong sense of protectiveness towards Historia, viewing her as someone who needs his support and guidance. He recognizes the immense burden she carries and may feel compelled to shield her from harm. This protective instinct could override his strategic calculations, leading him to act in her defense.
Arguments Against Reiner Saving Historia
However, there are also compelling arguments against Reiner making the same choice for Historia. The emotional connection between Reiner and Armin is deeply personal and rooted in shared experiences and mutual respect. This bond creates a visceral reaction in Reiner, compelling him to act impulsively. Reiner’s relationship with Historia, while respectful and caring, lacks the same emotional intensity. This difference in emotional connection could make Reiner’s decision-making process more calculated and less impulsive.
Furthermore, the circumstances surrounding the situation play a crucial role. The specific context of the threat, the potential consequences of intervention, and Reiner’s mental state at the time all influence his decision. It is conceivable that in a different scenario, with different stakes and a different mindset, Reiner might make a different choice.
Conclusion: A Complex Moral Question
In conclusion, the question of whether the Armored Titan would do the same for Historia as Armin is a complex moral question with no definitive answer. Reiner’s character is a tapestry of conflicting emotions, loyalties, and identities. His decisions are shaped by a multitude of factors, including his personal relationships, strategic considerations, and internal struggles.
While Reiner values Historia and recognizes her importance, his emotional connection with Armin is unique. This difference in emotional intensity could influence his decision-making process, making it less certain that he would act in the same way. Ultimately, the answer to this question lies in the intricate complexities of Reiner’s character and the unpredictable nature of the world he inhabits. The brilliance of Attack on Titan lies in its ability to pose such compelling moral dilemmas, prompting viewers to contemplate the nuances of human nature and the difficult choices faced in times of war and conflict. The question of whether Reiner would save Historia highlights the tragic beauty of the series, where even the most hardened warriors are forced to confront their humanity in the face of unimaginable adversity. The enduring appeal of Attack on Titan stems from its unflinching exploration of these moral ambiguities, leaving fans to ponder the depths of its characters and the weight of their decisions long after the credits roll.