The Rebirth Of Conviction

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#BackToLife

#PingPongsStudio

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credits for OPL ---> Hatsu man

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"If You Begin To Regret, You'll Dull Your Future Decisions And Let Others Make Your Choices For You."

                          -Erwin Smith

Emotions, something that we experience in our daily life. From joy, to anger to fear and many other various forms of emotions that stir inside the human core, affecting our actions, thoughts and decisions on a large scale. But what exactly are emotions? While watching a good tear jerking show for example, would you ever bother to wonder whether these emotions are simply a reflex that is built in within you, or whether they were generated due to circumstances, factors and other variables. A question that many of us ignore due to the natural existence of human emotion in all of us. Something that we widely accept the existence of as a staple of life rather than questioning its origin and how it became to be. Although we may question its origin however we may please, it is no doubt that emotions are real, and posses a genuine effect on humans. This is Something that could never be denied by a human being, we could all collectively agree that emotions are a real, powerful phenomenon that could move someone to their core. Which is why it is of utmost importance to realize how necessary genuine and real emotions are for any human to enjoy their life on this earth.

The classic view of emotions theorizes that deep within each of us, emotions are a basic or natural reflex that is built in within our mind as a collective species. Similar to any other organ, it Consists of different parts and circuits, each one for different emotions, such as anger, sadness and fear. And although this view of emotions is the more wide-spread view, promoted by many other shows and various types of media. Another view suggests that emotions are in reality generated, and not built in within humans as previously defined. It is believed that emotions are generated or induced due to different circumstances, past knowledge of different phenomenons as well as the upbringing and the nature of an environment. This latter definition of emotions is something that every good fantasy writer needs to take into consideration to truly induce genuine emotions into any individual, no matter how different their backgrounds are. And this is the case with Attack On Titan, an anime that tackles and handles a universal concept that could induce feelings of dread, fear and horror into any human being no matter their origins or upbringing. Human survival and the behavior of individuals when faced with existential danger.

Such a unique choice of emotions and apocalyptic theme for an anime is truly what gives aot its endless charm, as well as being a staple concept that defines many other characters, such as Erwin Smith. This could also be noticed in the name given to the threat that plagues the world of Aot, the "Titans". Although they couldve been named Giants, beasts or any generic monstrously natured name, the chosen name for them was specifically The Titan. Said choice was from my point of view a way of inducing emotions into the viewer, as the word titan suggests the superiority, might and colossus nature of the thing dubbed as a titan. Symbolizing the miniscule nature of humans in the world, whilst providing a natural atmosphere of intensity and trepidation before even truly beginning the show. Which I think is an interesting touch of psychological logic to the World of aot, and a sign of great writing and thought put into the show.

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Welcome wanderers, to another one of my blogs. Although this time, I've come to present something special that had been lurking in my mind for a long while, and I saw the back to life challenge as a perfect opportunity to present it. This last-minute entry will be my first Attack On Titan blog. I've never written about the show before despite enjoying it greatly during the time I had watched it, so this challenge inspired me to break the one piece blog streak and explore a new territory of fantastical writing. This time I will be explaining why Erwin Smith is undoubtedly the most under-appreciated character in the entire show, and why his death is a tragic loss for the humanity and the aot fandom, despite being overshadowed and forgotten in the midst of the events transpiring during the current season. All this along with why Armin should've been sacrificed for the sake of bringing back Erwin, instead of the opposite. The rise and fall of Erwin Smith is a beautiful tragedy that sets an example of an incredibly written character, with their own flaws, inner conflicts and powerful presence. I will be dissecting his character per usual and discussing why he is the pinnacle of aot and my personal favorite themes at the start of the series, the fear of extinction and the dread of a human threatening crisis. Let's get started!

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Demon or Savior? A question that's been asked most if not every time when Erwin is brought up. But while searching for answer to this question, it is important to understand and truly appreciate the purpose and struggles of Erwin Smith. Someone that embodies both selflessness and selfishness in an internal feud with his own heart and duty. He is a leader that was specifically born to lead humanity into a future that is void of the same trait that plagues himself, such is the sad tragedy of Erwin Smith and the reason which I believe his character should have been allowed to move forward. Because to me, a great character such as him shouldn't have been only used to purposefully tell a tragic story of a man who was pushed down by war and despair, but a man who was able to prevail alongside humanity due to the intense anguish he had to endure during his life time. During a time when humanity lived in a caged society, void of hope and truth, Erwin Smith was the beacon of humanity and perseverance. He truly embodied the leader that humanity very much needed during this time of despair and encagement. A demon with iron like fortitude that is capable of making sacrifices in order to induce change, a sentiment that is so detrimental to his character and one of the reasons as to why humanity behind the walls was able to realize the truth to their existence.

Erwin is always able to show his deep humanity and conviction to his own value of sacrifice, through his demon like resistance that allowed him to carry a burden so immense. All through his selfish nature, that pushed his selflessness to it's highest form. A duality that is strikingly beautiful and highlights the complex nature of his personality, and the importance of such a leader for the continuation of Humanity's survival. I think the obvious answer to the question mentioned above is without a doubt... Human. He is no demon yet no hero, he is a combination of both that was forged through hardship, war and a desire so deep it could tear down humanity at its essence. This is the character of Erwin Smith that entails a deep level of convoluted humanity and true suffering. It is also the same reason why I think it was crucial for Levi to have Chosen Erwin instead of Armin, which I will get into once we deepen our understanding of the desires and the core of Humanity's commander.

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With every action, there is a reaction, a sentence that describes most events that occur in a person's life. Just as decisions are being made, consequences follow these decisions and give them meaning. Because without consequences, decisions are meaningless. It is the same concept with our character, Erwin. Although he is a leader with great talents and capabilities, his humane origins dictate the presence of flaws within his character and being, which in turn make him a flawless character. Bringing back the quote from one of my blogs, he is a flawed, flawless character. And despite the fact that it sounds like a negative aspect, which it undoubtedly is. Somehow, certain individuals allow their flaws to become a driving force that propels them forward through the toughest of situations. That is the kind of flaw that Erwin possess, a constant internal struggle with his deepest ambitions and the future of humanity. That being his deep desire to uncover the truth behind the titans, a desire so deeply rooted and so strong that it was enough to even push him into considering the abandonment of the fight for humanity in order to follow his dream on his own, and find out the contents of the basement. Would he choose the realization of his own dreams? Or would he put his duty as a commander of men above all? That is what we shall explore after learning of his past, and the origins of the selfishness that comprises one of the essential parts of his character.

In order to understand this deep desire that resides within him, and why it is actually a positive flaw of Erwin's, We would need to go back to his childhood. While growing up under the care of his father who was a teacher, he naturally grew to be a curious and ambitious child. Holding a lot of interest in the history of the world and the things being taught to them at school. His intellect and curios nature making itself known, refusing to believe any information presented to him that he deemed questionable or odd. No matter who presented it, even willing to doubt his own father. Despite his staggering intellect at a young age, he was bound by the constraints of innocence and immaturity, just like any child at his age. An example of this is how he questioned the contrast between the information being provided at school. such as being taught about how humanity is extinct beyond the wall, despite mentioning beforehand the inability of humanity to traverse much further beyond the walls. This kind of attention to detail in his back story perfectly defines him as a truth seeking individual. Even at a young age, he pondered about the true form of the world and the lies he was being told. Setting him out to be an individual who seeks truth by nature, it is in Erwin's nature to yearn for the truth, and to look for it. I am personally very fond of the idea that young Erwin was questioning the truth beyond the wall, further building upon the selfish hopes and dreams of his character.

Later on in the series, young Erwin is shown discussing his doubts and father's theories (which his father foolishly shared outside of class) about the outer world with his classmates, resulting in the assassination of his father. I believe this to be the moment when something truly change inside of Erwin, fueling his obsession with the truth. Having witnessed the direct consequences and the price for yearning after truth. This harsh reality Coupled with The realization that his foolish actions were directly responsible for the death of his father, acted as a catalyst for the birth of his will and determination to give meaning to his father's death, igniting his undying desire to prove his father's theories to be correct. Before continuing on with this analysis, I wanted to take a moment and appreciate the fascinating dream he shared with his father, even after his death. Erwin was never shown to be truly close to his dad, yet the power of inheriting his father's will was still triumphant. I think that this is because of the mutual goal that both he and his father shared, because after all, they still are father and son. Erwin's ambitions stem from his aspiration of a world where seeking the truth isn't punishable by death or great consequences. His father's death due to something that he was personally very invested in awakened something within him. The craving to prove his father right, who he only shared a strong connection with via their mutual respect and yearning for truth.

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I think it is only now that we may discuss Levi's fatal decision to choose Armin instead of Erwin, and why it should have been the other way around. When I first witnessed the scene when Armin was picked, I always pondered on why? Why was Armin chosen instead of someone as great as Erwin to be given a second chance? But soon enough, after some thought into it, the answer became clear to me. It is the difference in ambitions and dreams that made Levi favor Armin over Erwin, as the latter's life of war and leadned battle was only fueled by a short term dream of reaching Eren's basement and uncovering the truth. It is but a short term goal that usually ends its bearer's hopes due to the limiting factor that hadn't crossed Erwin's mind. What comes next? If you thought about it, Armin's dream of seeing the sea is tied with freedom and hope, a new dream Carried by the new generation of strong willed youth. When it comes to Erwin's short term goal of reaching the truth, it quite honestly fails to compare to Armin's future sighted dreams of the future.

Why did Erwin end up like this? The simple answer is war, deception, the void of hope and continuous fear of being caged and bound by an everlasting shackle that bears its fangs at anyone who dares step out into the truth and the freedom that the world has to offer. And so, this is the same exact reason why Erwin himself allowed Levi to make the decision of abandoning him for the sake of Armin. Abandoning him for the sake of sacrifice, sacrifice that is in the name of change. Which is in my opinion, one of the most ingenious part of Erwin's character. As someone who has held his ground with unwavering conviction when it comes to sacrifice in the name of change. Erwin achieved peace of mind by allowing himself to make the greatest sacrifice to all, his own dream in favor of change, and a better future for his people. In the end, his true humanity and love for all the lives lost under his command, all in order to give true meaning to humanity. The burden of sacrificing thousands of men, women and soldiers to allow change to take place. This burden was finally lifted from from upon his shoulders, making the greatest sacrifice in the entire show, all in the name of change that is powerful enough to disturb this accursed fate of theirs.

And I know what you might be thinking, isn't this supposed to be a blog about why Erwin should've been chosen? You are absolutely correct, but to understand why his decision was wrong, it is essential to first understand the logic or reasoning behind the decision. I also mentioned the way that Erwin allowed Levi to take the decision purposefully, In order to expose the true nature of Erwin. And his own sacrifice towards the greater good. Showing once more that he knows himself to be a proud soldier of humanity. Not faltering in the face of death, and following his own ideals with unforseen conviction and perseverance. This combination of selfishness and selflessness, yet the triumph of selflessness speaks about Erwin's character by itself. It is rare that we see someone with similar qualities to him, as it is easy to talk about mental fortitude against tough situations, but it is an entirely different story when it comes to being presented yourself with the situation. The amount of resolve and commitment required to keep pushing while every sense in your body is telling you to give up is absolutely staggering. It is only fit for a Demon amongst demons, that is in reality more humane than most. One of the many reasons to explain why Erwin would've been a better choice instead of Armin, because although the latter's dream is void of selfishness, it is only through selfishness that a leader is capable of gaining the courage to motivate himself before being able to motivate anyone else.

This is not the primary reason as to why I think Erwin would've been a better choice, but it is definitely one of the more important factors that I took into . On the other hand, I don't think I have to say anything else to explain why Erwin is from my opinion the peak Attack on titan character writing, and a character that radiates with greatness far more than any other individual in the series. A character that I've grown very fond off, not because he's badass or cool. But because of the way he shows and depicts the psychology of a struggling human, and the realistic approach to the character of a leading position in a post apocalyptic world. He is not your typical power drunk leader who abandons the battlefield when things get tight, but the type of person to pour his life and very essence into his responsibilities. Because after all, life isn't all about enjoyment and satisfaction, especially in a world like aot's where despair, anguish and desperation thrive. Erwin himself realized this cruel reality more than anyone else, which is why he is always willing to selflessly take sacrifices, shoulder the consequences yet selfishly not falter from the burden. An endless cycle of beauty and rage that engulfs his very existence in the aot universe. Something that I think no one, not even Armin nor Levi could ever understand. Something that only Commander Erwin was capable of comprehending, and working his hardest in order for others to continue living in ignorance, whilst shouldering everything on his own. I love Erwin Smith.

I think it is now finally safe to say that Erwin should've been picked instead of Armin. After pondering for a while about the decision, it is clear that Erwin's conviction and leading qualities are triumph over Armin's hope towards the future. Because during such a time of human desperation, maybe a leader that is motivated only by pure and unadulterated responsibility wouldn't be the best choice. Because as I mentioned before, it is only through his own flaws and realization that he was able to continue pushing humanity forward along with his selfish dream. His selfless side taking priority whenever the time called for it. It is also a little disrespectful from my eyes the way that Levi didn't choose Erwin from the fear that he would give in to his desire, despite the latter proving himself to be an unparalleled tactical genius that falters not in the face of hesitation. And decisively favoring humanity over his own reasons. Furthermore, it is only fair to assume that during his dying moments, he had already given up on his dream in the name of sacrifice. Or rather when he decided on the plan even, telling Levi to make the decision of ending his life for him. I am a bit disappointed that Levi didn't see that in his commander who has proven himself to be more than worthy, it would've been only fair to give a second chance to someone who has gone so far and suffered so much to give humanity a fighting chance. Reborn moments before his death by the lifting of burdens off his chest, only for his life to be taken away despite his incredible character and progress as both a leader, a man and a human.

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I think it is only suitable to include Erwin's last epitaph in this blog A scene that was deeply engraved in my mind, due to the sheer intensity and greatness of the words that escaped his mouth. Using his own curse of selflessness to motivate others. choosing to sacrifice his own life in search of the greater good, Distinguishing between his strong and powerful presence to that of any other leader that could possibly take his place after his untimely death.

The last charge and the battle cry of Erwin Smith. His death occurred in the 3rd season of the show, during the attack of Zeke, the beast titan Shifter. Utilizing the strength of his titan, Zeke would use his long arms to act as catapults, hailing rocks and boulders towards the numerous soldiers of the survey corps, all while being surrounded by a line of controlled titans, closing off any openings in his attack. Despite being caught in a situation which had overwhelmed humanity both physically and mentally. Erwin's undaunted personality and best trait is shown, allowing him to think rationally in the most dire of situations, conceiving a plan that entails a mass suicide charge lead by none other than himself.

Which again shows why Erwin is a character that isn't afraid to let go of his own life and pride in pursuit of a greater future, making his fearless and selfless leadership a great loss for humanity. He does not fear for his own life, because he does not see himself as someone who should be protected, in fact, Erwin himself believes that he is the one that should push himself most, more than anyone else in order to acquire victory. Something that is only present in a true leader who has ion for his mission in life. This is something that strikes me as one of the more brilliant aspects of his personality, his willingness, determination and will to strive to make change. It is a sign of great character writing and the effects of a hardened and leadened life, giving him his complex personality that makes him stand out from other leading figures in any other anime. Yet again proving my point that he has earned his place as the commander of humanity's will to survive, the very embodiment of human will power. Surely Levi should've been able to make that distinction, wouldn't you agree?

After revealing his plans to his men, it was met by dread and horror-struck faces from his numerous loyal soldiers, who had ed the corps in hopes of a life that is rid of titans, yet were met with the horrible reality of truth that he had to point out. In order for change to be made, sacrifices have to be taken, which we learn how much he is willing to own up to that phrase. This ruthless and demon-like understanding of the cruel nature of the world is what sets out the greatness of his character, leading thousands of troupes to their death in order to achieve one goal, valuing the greater good of humanity over his own dreams and ambitions. A feat that is only achievable by a character with great conviction like Erwin, making him even more likeable to me. This heartbreaking, yet powerful and impacting decision is something that I have never seen before in any other anime, followed by a bone chilling speech that took his troupes by storm. Said speech was his greatest epitaph, inspiring his soldiers that had been overcome by regret, remorse and despair, into a rage unlike any other. Which is a beautiful contrast and a sign of great leadership qualities, further solidifying my opinion concerning Levi's choice.

Apart from yet again proving his unwavering conviction, he holds his stance as a leader, and a tactical genius who is ready to dedicate his life fully for the sake of his goals. This constancy with the firm beliefs and once again, conviction of his character is another factor as to why he is so dearly loved by his fans. Because even with internal struggles and flaws that give him great grief and agony, he stands his ground with his pride as a leader of men. Able to find solace within his own words of sacrifice and change. It paints a picture of a puppet that is tugging on the ropes of the puppeteer. Refusing to be swept along the waves of Destiny that sweep away the week minded. Such a beautiful and pristine character generates this aura and atmosphere of greatness around Erwin, enchanting the viewer with his strong presence and powerful words, boosting the immersion and enjoyment of the show. A brilliant example of this is the speech I've mentioned beforehand.

"We die, trusting the living who follow to find meaning in our lives, that is the sole method in which we can rebel against this cruel world. My soldiers... Rage! My soldiers... Scream! My soldiers... Fight!"

After being Faced with such a horrifying plan, it is natural that hundreds or thousands of men were thrown into a terrible dread, questioning the meaning of their existence, or whether their life has had any meaning at all. Despite this discouraging despair that spread through his forces, Erwin was still able to strike his soldiers with inspiration and the will to berserk, overcoming their fears for the purpose of fending off the danger that threatens everything they have sworn to protect. This speech symbolizes perfectly the themes of emotion and the sublime way by which Erwin encourages his forces to attack. Personify the very fact that in order for change to occur, sacrifice needs to be taken. No matter how they die, whether it be by a shower of boulders hitting them, or whether it is consumption by a titan, every human dies at the end. Yet life is given meaning by the cycle of will, carried by each generation.

What makes this speech in particular amusing to me is how well it portrays the duties of the living, that being to put meaning into the countless lives which had been lost for us to thrive. Carrying their inherited will on our shoulders and building the future they had hoped for atop their sacrifice and despair. To Trust in the following generations to put meaning into our own lives and sacrifice, to continue the cycle of loss and gain. A noble and powerful duty that makes the quintessence of human life, and the way that humanity is able to advance. It is undoubtedly one of my favorite moments in the anime, Convincing countless soldiers that it is of no importance whether they die in vain during this mission, fail to achieve their personal ambitions or fail to lead a happy life, all matters not except the sacrifice in order to create change. And honoring the sacrifices of the past as a catalyst of change. Such an impactful and devilish speech was enough to entirely change the fate of humanity, altering the flow of events as a whole for the world of aot.

Erwin's speech was capable of driving countless men, each with their own ambitions and dreams, each with their own genuine emotions of anguish and despair. Into soldiers raging with the souls and hopes of the past in order to achieve the goal of protecting humanity. To me, this is very similar to Gutt's depiction of the band of the hawk from berserk. There exists one giant flame of ambition that warms and strengthens all the other tiny flames, creating a force that could alter their own fate and destiny, unwavered by the cruel nature of the world. A pulchritudinous analogy that fits and complements our character perfectly. Erwin was able to pour from his own flame of ambitions, values and morals into thousands others, creating a chain of endless hope and discarded dreams, pushing his brave soldiers into a suicide battle charge that carried the fate of the entire human race on it's shoulders. I truly cannot find words with which to describe the hidden greatness that this scene holds, highlighting his greatest quality as a leader. His ability to generate and inspire genuine emotions of rage and conviction into his own soldiers who were overrun with fear and regret.

An amusing concept that shows just how much of a complex character Erwin is, whose existence almost represents the personification of determination and will power. In this rare case, defying your human instincts with iron clad conviction is the only way for humanity to prevail. This is something that Erwin realizes, making him a staple character for the survival of humanity. His ability to conduct emotions, make sacrifices and great intellect are part of the reasons why he is a priority to bring back from the dead. And why no one else in the world of aot has the same kind of demonic understanding and sense of judgment that is a necessity for the continuation of Humanity's struggles against the turbulent waves of fate.

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Now let's go back to that comparison with Berserk that I had made earlier, and the terrifying similarities between Erwin's character and Griffith. Both could be portrayed as a source of dreams and hopes, and both end up utilizing the sacrifices of others to reach their goals, but what exactly makes Griffith and Erwin different. Why do people hate Griffith so much yet are perplexed in amazement to the other's speech towards a suicidal charge that was mainly inspired by his undying ion for truth? I think the main reason for this is very simple, the humane flaws and selfless nature of Erwin, fueled by Inherited will that he acquired from his father. Unlike Griffith, who's goals have always been very self-centered and unjust. He strove to conquer his dreams through stepping on others willing, taking advantage of their lives as if it was his right by birth, unlike the duty like approach by which Erwin took in sacrificing his soldiers. It is a duty he took to his pride and very existence, carrying the burden of making use of their lives that they willingly gave up for the sake of humanity.

That is truly what differentiates between the flaws that make Erwin even more humane, and the terrible deeds of a selfish man who has no hesitation to abuse others for his own gains. Erwin's valiant struggle as a human being is something we can all relate to, from his incomplete dream to his selfless sacrifices that he so willing made to push the will of his comrades forward. It's all a beautiful symphony of tragedy and triumph, then tragedy once more. In the end, Erwin was unable to acquire his inner peace due to the poor choice of captain Levi in reviving Armin. Which is why its only fair to reward his suffering and despair by giving him yet another chance, another opportunity to further more continue his beautiful sonata of emotions and change. All in the name of providing the final closure to a man who has given the very embers of his soul and existence for the sake of the future generations.

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I will be concluding my blog here, I hope that I was able to convince you of my point of view on why Erwin as a character and a personality is a better choice to have brought back from life rather than Armin. Erwin is the pinnacle of Conviction, humanity and an example of a man who followed a leadened, hardened and harsh road, stepping over countless bodies in order to carry the future generations upwards, only to give meaning to those who gave their life valiantly. Such is the character of Erwin Smith, and this was the blog, by me, Destiny. I hope to see you in the next one.

                                         -Sarabada