He is an anime character don't compare anime to cartoons because those are two totally different genres of shows also we are not animals we are mammals and no they are not that's like saying levi and mikasa are the same like those two maybe ackermans but they couldn't be more different the only thing that makes them the same is their ackerman blood and the power they get when awakened but other than that their different so cut that shit out because you are wrong
I love your entire breakdown. Going deeper into characters subtle and overt story elements. The scouts representing freedom. I believe its unfair to believe that Armin is a truly free person any more than Eren. Armin like you said being Wisdom. Id take Armin takes the wise route but put him Eren shoes is his Freedom possible when Armin holds the key? Thoughts on this
Thank you! That’s kind of you. Armin is a tremendously written character. He had to come with some physical weaknesses - A perfect character is a boring one.
Eren may be the protagonist but Armin is the hero of Attack on Titan. He doesn't fight for vengeance, he fights for hope. Sure the world is cruel and merciless but it is also very beautiful. He fights because there is still some good in this world and it's worth fighting for.
That's interesting because back in 2014, Isayama told the director of the anime, that Armin is the hero of the story. And the series itself supports this. Especially in season 3.
Crying over here, because ever since AOT, I've desired my own sort of freedom, and I didn't necessarily know what it was more until watching this. Through this show I feel I have reached a deeper state of consciousness
IMPORTANT: Well, tragedy has struck. I got my entire channel deleted, along with all of my videos, because I took the time to thoughtfully respond to every single comment left on my videos. UA-cam says that’s spam, and now I’m very limited with who I can respond to. I got my channel back thankfully, and I don’t wanna risk that again. All my replies got deleted, which really, really sucks. Please do know that I read LITERALLY every single comment, I can leave “hearts” to let you know I’ve read it, but I have to be choosy with who I respond to now. Which sucks because I really loved some of the conversations that took place in this comment section. If you’re ever looking to hold a dialogue with me, feel free to reach out on either the Instagram linked on my channel, or my business email. I don’t care at this point, I’m really bummed about having my speech limited here. Any email you take the time to send me, I can guarantee a response to. Thank you all for the incredible support. TATAKE. We roll with the punches here. - Red
One thing I really like about this is that you show proof for what symbols mean. I watch a lot of video essays where they just say “this flower symbolizes innocence” or “this color means xyz.” I wasn’t beliving the “bell” symbol until you actually took the time to explain it, and the reptile brain thing blew my minnddddd. Such a great vid
Something I think many people get wrong about Eren’s character is they don’t understand freedom in the slightest. Most people sum up Eren’s fight for freedom to be like chasing a ring, or some sort of unachievable insanity. Hence why so many see him as this stupid kid, even to this day. Freedom is to be able to choose; to be able to make your own decisions and face the consequences for your own decisions within fair restrictions such as not harming anybody and not trespassing upon anybody. This has been robbed of Eren. Due to the walls, due to the titans, due to Marley, due to the outside world, Eren is not free. He is not allowed to do as pleases. If he wanted to go to another country freely as Eren Jaeger himself, he would be ridiculed and most likely killed. This is not a fair restriction, thus a reduction of freedom, a robbery of it. Others ARE allowed to do what he would like to do as well, thus proving the reduction of freedom. Recall armins first speech in season 1 when he awakens Eren to carry the rock- Armin: “why did you want to go outside when you know it will most likely die a bloody death” Eren: “why? You know why… BECAUSE I WAS BORN INTO THIS WORLD” then he burns away his entire family including Mikasa which represents that nobody comes before freedom. Eren is like the kind of guy who would go camping on a mountain filled with bears and steep cliff edges, and telling him he is not allowed to. This is wrong, and he’d be right to be enraged. It is HIS life. He is allowed to make his own choices, despite the risks, he is open to holding the consequences for whatever choice he makes, even if he dies. He WANTS the responsibility. Eren values his quality of life above living. You cannot have a quality of life without freedom, without the ability to choose freely. I am an Eren fan, but because he so deeply represents something I have never seen another character, or even human represent so well outside of my own self. Freedom is a fucking right. I believe people that have never have their freedom trampled upon/restricted (which can only happen because of another human being as of right now) will never understand the value of it, they’ll never understand the fight necessary to obtain it and hence, never understand Eren. I believe 99% of people in society aren’t truly free, maybe in the physical sense, but not mentally, and should take a note from Eren’s book. (I know the video wasn’t about Eren nor his freedom, rather the overarching themes of this stories interpretations of freedom, but I think it’s necessary to have a dialogue about Eren’s interpretation of freedom here too) Great video btw man, Ik the hard work it takes.
This summation could’ve been a video unto itself. However, I did skip over Eren’s sense of freedom, and that was actually deliberate - There are already PLENTY of other analysis on UA-cam that do, or attempt to do it. Freedom to, and freedom from, are core to understanding AoT, I completely agree. I actually had a whole fourth section describing it, but I got rid of it because it was the same shit you’ve heard in 20 video essays already. However, I think Isayama refutes the principle to some degree. How do we know if what we want is actually what we want? Are our desires ours? Or were they imposed upon us by our culture, our walls, by the society around us? That’s a VERY relevant theme to season 4. You’re totally correct in your evaluation, though, I’m with you on that.
Also, I appreciate all the time you took to leave feedback, it was very well organized and communicated. Thanks man. I get so excited seeing comments like this.
Eren’s friends are just as important to him as his is freedom, he stated that they mean more than anyone else to him and that he wants them to live long lives in episode 10 of season 4 when they’re on the small train after they’ve extended the train track, especially Mikasa, if you see his demeanour throughout season 4 you can tell that he’s saddened by the growing separation between him and Mikasa. Eren throughout the series has become more and more consumed by his idea of freedom that he would take away the freedom of others even if they had nothing to do with him, he is willing to take away the freedom of others like Bertholdt and Reiner did to him in order to have his own freedom, that’s why Eren says he’s the same as Reiner in the declaration of war episode. Eren’s freedom is a idealistic and corrupted freedom by nature, everyone choices in AOT has a consequence and affect on other people’s choices and therefore no one is truely free of consequence and free for choice, Eren’s choices are limited by the choices of others and now Eren is limiting the choices of others through his choice, he’s taking away the freedom that others have taken away from him thus continuing the cycle of hatred and revenge. Eren is losing himself and as a result everything else because of his ideal freedom. Armin on the other hand accepts the world for what it is and makes compromises to get what he wants, he’s willing to make compromises on his own choices and freedom so that someone else can have that freedom, he’s a peacemaker and is one thats willing to make sacrifices in order to reach a fair freedom where as many people possible can have fair choice and chance in life. Armin makes the best out of everything that he has.
@@BigJMC Armin’s special ability to compromise is largely what the latter half of the video was about - You’re spot on in your evaluation, I think. Have you seen Bruce Lee’s monologue on “being as water?” m.ua-cam.com/video/cJMwBwFj5nQ/v-deo.html Also, thanks so much for the response. You put an impressive amount of effort into it. 😂
@@BigJMC Eren takes away the freedom of others IF they threaten his and his friends,family, and homeland's freedom. That's what people are missing. Eren is very aware of the consequences and has submitted at times in order to get a long lasting result it's just the times he has stand down from taking action, IE: trusting others to get a job done that he himself was capable of doing; The world ends up betraying him on that end(Levi's squad vs Annie as a key example). Not going to talk about Eren's character post chapters 124-125 because that's when the story becomes blurred with his character namely the endgame.
This is so good, holy. I didn't expect the amount of references, philosophical questions and analysis of the human condition. I love that you tied all this to Jung, because that's exactly the type of messages Isayama conveyed through the story. The whole story fits so well with the concept of the Collective Subconscious and the Shadow. Amazing work.
This video is the culmination of about six months of hard work. I pride myself on not being the kind to ask for engagement, but if you feel this video resonated with you in any way, I'd deeply appreciate a like and a subscribe. My next AoT video essay is already well underway! If you wanna do any further reading, I have a small bookshop linked in the description that will bring you right to every resource I referenced in this video, and it's a really great way to help support my channel. TATAKAE.
Season 4 is bs and those themes can brme twisted. Also, it is a stupid look of reality. Plus it is only an atheist perspective to some degree. Most people are religious to sone degree. Where most religious are the Muslims. Those themes don't apply for China or Muslim world. Also generally that is not how the world work, that is part of how the world works. Plus, he is making alot of claims here. Whom non are really true.
@@Exile_Sky i was talking about the writer. Example: you don't need to fight a monster with a devil, but an angle, or as you are. There is no darkness in humans. Humans are not evil but capable to do so, when the environment and conditions go out of control for the individual without getting help. Evil is not a thing. Evil is the absence of good. Our shadow is a good thing. Anger and aggression when controled directed properly are part of bravery and honor, they are not bad or even evil or natural they are good things. We are, humans not animals. We are spiritual creatures before the physical. Even the physical is not part of the animal kingdom. Humans have no evolution. Darwinism is one of 4 theories of evolution, anyway. Also justice is far more important than freedom but from justice comes freedom. Therefore, you cannot discuss freedom without talking about justice itself first. There is more things comes from justice than just freedom. Also freedom is not that much of an importance except when it is almost nonexistenting or justice is not served properly. Freedom on it is own is liberation and liberation without a powerful big problem before it like slavery then it becomes evil as it transgressions justice of it is right. Too much thinking of freedom is not necessary. It is not important as long justice is there. As i said there is many big other aspects or consequences of justice equal to freedom including freedom. Freedom on it is own turns to a monster. Simply you do what you do and f anyone in your way regardless of anything. Walls shouldn't be a simple. They are just a tool in the story not an expression. The ones behind the walls are free. The walls are not a small thing. This is not freedom we talking about it is greed and fear. Freedom is not in the dark, it is in our heart. All those quotes are as dark as the anime because those people harts are dark. True freedom is to worship no one nor yourself, but one that doesn't need u. To be brave and never ever nelle to anyone no matter what not even a bit. Restrictions don't limit freedom but they preserve freedom by making freedom doesn't become a sin of greed, lust and gluttony. Freedom must not outway justice. Civilization is not a chain. It is a tool a weapon that justice goes back too and protects freedom and equality ie independence and slef conciousness. Freedom is to know who you are. Freedom is not doing what you want just because you want too. Freedom is just you are not controled and own your own slef determination. Freedom doesn't need knowledge but liberty does (there is a huge difference). Freedom needs wisdom of choice. Justice what needs knowledge and power. Everyone is a slave of something. Being totally free is not necessary, not important has no additional benefits. However it is only possible if you warship no one but one. arrogance and ignorance is unstable and un inescapable without God's guidance as no matter how much we would know even if we live for eternity is not going to be enough by any level and almost meaningless. Freedom on it is own becomes nihilism. Fear no one but one. Casting a shadow is not always bad. Because that shadow is justice protecting freedom when necessary, needed. However freedom is in the light. A principal can't be talked about without other ones. Freedom on it is own is evil. So everything else. I can keep going but i will stop here.
"Freedom from one paradigm just submits us to another" "The key to one's shackles usually erect new prisons. New bars but bars all the same" I can't believe that someone finally understands what i was thinking about for the past several months I was sick of seeing people understanding Eren but not surpassing that line, not seeing why the core of his ideology was corrupted Thanks for this video, I haven't seen anyone talk about Eren from this perspective which I think is the point of the whole story
As someone who finished the manga, not going into spoilers but your explanation of true freedom hits way home to how the story ends - it's what I always thought but could never put into words. Eren will never obtain the freedom he seeks because he is the one who puts the shackles upon himself, but Armin is the most free because he dissociates from all that and simply lives in the moment. It's actually insane that you haven't read the ending, yet your description on freedom holds more true than any video I've seen on Attack on Titan, manga or anime. Good work!
@@Reddrik One thing I'm confused though, what do you mean by internal freedom and external freedom that Eren and Armin have? Is it because Eren shackles himself by his external and physical barriers (the walls, titans, humans) whilst Armin can enjoy himself without actually having to see the sea?
an absolute brilliance of a video. this insight and connecting of information made a series that was already very deep and thought-provoking, into a masterpiece, and a one of kind life experience. I'll never watch AOT the same again, you unvailed to me the true form of this already great piece of art. so, deeply, THANK YOU.
You actually nailed it with Armin. But also in a way that I don't know if you were conscious of. Isayama actually said that Armin is like a childhood friend of his. His friend is not naive but is able to see beauty and joy in the life that oppresses Isayama who always felt shackled. Armin and Eren are opposites of the same question. Eren years for what he lacks and assumes that is freedom while Armin joys of what is there and what ultimately culminates his character is letting go of the expectations that came from his revival, which sets him as the freest of them all.
Coming back to this video after the finale. You understood Armin's character PERFECTLY. Such a bittersweet day with my favorite story ever ending but this video never fails to get me emotional. It always makes me fall in love with AoT all over again.
BRO, this video is one of the best when covering aot and its thematic ideas. As a manga reader I fully applaud you for all the points to stated regarding freedom(you will understand more when u finish the series). Really well thought out, and I'm very impressed of how much research you did even before season 4. You got mostly everything!! ranging from Kenny's speech to Armin's perspective of the world, though there is one character you missed but not big deal > Zeke and Armin are one the best character contrasts to develop in the upcoming season. good job man
I really haven’t seen an anime-only as knowledgable as you about Attack on Titan. I really applaud you for your efforts. Those six months of work really shine through, I appreciate it
No you are not guilty of anything. In fact this is by far the best video essay I have ever seen. So many people are trapped in rehashing the story but forget to break it down. This video essay is backed by evidence, references, and primary sources constructed in an organized manner so well, the only negative thing is how come this channel only has 4k subs at this point.
Imo aot is a plot based story In a plot based storythe ending is the message conveyed So to understand the story means understand whats the message the writter is building up to
@@isaidoun I like to imagine that, in mangakas, the more exaggerated the name, the more successful they are. My favorite mangaka is Isayamamamamamamamaamamamamamamamamama.
Live the present, that's what freedom is. If you think about the past or the future, you'll get bound by your own thoughts. Isayama has really created something that explains probably everything which is not possible without actual conversation. Attack On Titan is truly the embodiment of ideas which can liberate the minds of people. When you said Smiling Titan and Eren are the same person, I just got shocked, I mean, you haven't read the manga, have you? but you already know one of the most important events in AOT's ending.
Yeah, I'm a filthy anime-only. I'm looking forward to seeing the resolution. Isayama's work is pretty remarkable. I really appreciate your takeaway, I think it's incredibly astute.
Thank you so much for a Buddhist interpretation at the end. Clinging to our illusions, our shackles, won't make us freer, happier, or safer. It will drive you insane in the end. Great video!
I think all that Buddhist stuff is definitely embedded in the story. Either way, whether my interpretation or intention on Isayama’s part, it’s definitely applicable! If the shoe fits, y’know? Thank you so much!
Yeah I am Buddhist and Kennys final words were completely Buddhism Also Erwins saying that till there are atleast 2 people on the world peace wouldnt be achieved
I come back and watch this video regularly. The multi disciplinary ties, the metaphorical connections, it's a perfect video. Resonated is too light a word. This video could be used to help people struggling and those who are blissfully ignorant of hardships in the world. I've always thought on this but never seen it so perfectly put togeather in 36 minutes no less. This was beautiful and I hope more people are expose to it. Liked, followed, and ever faithful viewer.
It's very rare I watch a youtube video about anime and come away thinking "I've gotta read those books they quoted." I'm going to do just that though I am very intrigued. Great video!
I haven’t gotten to that quote yet since I’m a filthy anime-only, but that sentiment would definitely reinforce the theme of this video. Maybe I’ll make an updated version once the anime wraps up!
Lost a loved one earlier this year. Had one of the darkest years of my life. Only after truly accepting his lose… I starting feeling free again. Painfully liberating. I felt everything you said here mate. Thank for you this.
the idea that our passions and dreams are just delusions, walls to protect us from the reality of death, implies that passions and desires are only a means to this end, and fails to consider that they are worth living for if desire was just something we tell ourselves to cope with death, then anyone who lives forever would have no desire
I softly cried with a lump in my throat during the whole video. I felt everything you just explained by seeing the anime. Thank you for giving sense to what art's epiphany makes feel.
You're absolutely right about Armin. Holy sh1t. He's the freest character in the show, because he already gave up on his dreams in season 3 part 2. He's free from his dreams, desires, ego. He's free.
Everyone is a slave to something. In Christianity we like to say that everyone has a God-shaped hole in their heart. That everyone worships something whether they know it or not. Freedom doesn't come from having no master, freedom comes from choosing your master and embracing it. That is why one is most free when he is responsible and disciplined. He is in control of his own fate, his own actions and isn't driven purely by instinct or sin. That is true freedom and I believe that Attack on Titan has a great way of exploring how people nowadays have the wrong view of freedom. How many are not free when they believe themselves to be. Great video! I have always known that AOT has a lot of great themes that reflect our era as many great works do. You explained it well!
I agree with your sentiment a hundred percent. The cultural gods and new age prophets our walls send to us HAVE to be rejected, spirit is found very, very, very far away from them. I really appreciate your insight, that’s a great takeaway. Thank you so much!
This was really well made. Everything I’ve been thinking about, already been trying to formulate, you’ve put into one video. I was nodding with joy when you brought up how Armin was truly grounded in reality, while eren was perverted in a sense. It’s all about your own inner state
The philosophy of Attack on Titan is so beautiful. Isayama is one of my favourite people ever for writing this transcendent masterpiece. I wish I could meet him.
Cannot provide a big enough thumbs-up for this well-thought out video essay. You hit the central theme to this story on its head, and used enough evidence to support your interpretation. I look forward to seeing your interpretation once the show is finished.
I stated this in another comment chain on your video, but I think it's worth reiterating here. Please don't let people's perceptions (positive or negative) of the manga ending color your experience of the anime's ending. As you pointed out in the video, the best approach will be to simply experience the story as it unfolds, free from expectations, and then go from there. I have seen far too many people trying to force their perspectives and feelings onto others regarding the ending. I would encourage not only you but everyone to approach the anime ending with an open mind, free of preconceptions. After all, the anime ending belongs to itself, not the manga. Regardless of how closely (or not) it chooses to follow the manga.
@@nspaulding07 Oh, absolutely. Don’t worry, this story means far too much to me to just adopt someone’s else’s perception of it. I’m going in with an open mind, and I’m excited to see it.
Dude you need a fucking award for this video (and I’m not even done watching it 😂) you perfectly describe and illustrate something that society fails to acknowledge and how it correlates to our everyday actions and behaviors the themes you talk about are just profound and amazing to witness because it makes sense to the show. IMO I think Attack on Titan is the greatest story of all time because it tells tales of the human mind body and spirit that we as a society only scratch the surface off Im in awe at the realization and I wanna thank you for putting in the effort with the psychology annotations and quotes because it fits so well THANK YOU!!!!!
This is beautiful, and has aged incredibly well. You encompass the ending, and the fallout of Eren and Armin’s characters, quite clearly, and that really speaks to the time you’ve spent thinking about this series. Thank you for compiling such a thoughtful, compelling, researched, and truthful exploration of this story! It was a joy to listen to, and I’ll definitely recommend it to others.
This is fucking incredible. It’s everything I’ve ever loved about freedom and more, and of everything that goes into the deep symbolism, harshness and raw truth of it. Thank you, this brought tears to my eyes with the effort and candidness you put into this analysis. I feel the same way as Eren; I want the responsibility of freedom and my right to choose. I know I was born with freedom but that while it can be taken from me, I have the right to fight back and retrieve that which was lost, despite that I was born free; my existence alone means I have it. My right to choose, my right to live. To live with making decisions on my own accord and accepting the consequences, but not being oppressed by others.
"Freedom as knowledge" and "Freedom as selfishness" are the greatest analyses I've ever seen regarding AOT. Ngl that conclusion made me tear up Great research.. great video man. Kudos to you 🎉
this is the most sophisticated analysis of freedom in aot that I've seen on UA-cam, incredible stuff. seizing the moment and choosing to let go of preconceived dreams like Kenny does as he dies, is what freedom ought to be
“If you can’t let it go, it’s not worth holding onto!” I used to be rather famed in an animation server, but due to irl circumstances I could simply no longer find the time to produce anything. At the beginning, I was absolutely devastated. I felt like a part of me died. Something important that defined me seemed to have ‘died’. The insurmountable level of suffering I tasted every single moment my eyes looked at something that wasn’t my computer broke my mental state so badly I can no longer remember exactly how pained I was during that time. I don’t know what caused me to change, but the present me can truly let go of my artistic pursuits- not just animation, but everything else. It’s not like I don’t care anymore, I still really, really want to come back to animation, but I just don’t feel that mortifying weakness when I first lost the time required to produce animations. Perhaps it’s just that I was shackled. I thought I grinded my way up to the top, that I was the one in control and I was a person who could create great works. But ironically, I, perhaps never really enjoyed the fame and talent. I only thought I enjoyed my fame and talent, but in reality, my fame and talent were literally and figuratively devouring me. As an non-AoT fan that even likes the anti-mainstream mindset, I never thought that AoT would invoke such strong reflections upon myself. I am grateful to you for producing this video.
Sounds like your creative pursuits were covering something up. Taking them away, left with facing whatever existential dread or pondering you were avoiding, seems like it’s helped you in the long run. Very solid insight. :)
The one thing that throws a wrench in the bit about Eren not being able to appreciate reaching the sea as Armin had is actually explained in Season 4, otherwise you would've been pretty spot-on in your analysis. Basically a BIG realization happened that jaded him for ever.
This video brings me back to core realisations I've made during Zen buddhism classes. That my ultimate fear is death, that everything I do is to avoid facing that fear, and that to realise true freedom I need to rid myself of all my preconceived notions of it. I had never approached AOT from this lens. What an incredible analysis. Thank you.
How the hell do you only have 500 subs? The level of care and effort put into every word in this video is simply amazing I'll look forward to your next works!
holy god dayum , that was sooo deep and so ... raw .... Your ideas on the basis of 3 seasons are so strong and correct, your "projections" of what might come in future episodes, what eren is and what he will go through, the entire philosophy of attack on titan is so thoroughly sketched out in this video. I have to watch this 10 times ATLEAST to even begin to absorb and understand the ideas in this video. Would love to hear your thoughts about attack on titan now, be it till where anime has ended or the entire manga( which is now complete) . Make it 3 hours long lecture, i don't care, I will religiously watch it for i have not understood a spec of eren's character from the story and through these video essays i only get hints. Please, Please make another one of this video essay encompassing entire attack on titan's story.
24:40-24:56 was a real hit to the heart for me. I’m a very spiritual philosophical person who always tryna decode things like freedom or mortality etc. I hope one day every human becomes philosophical o
This was extremely well written and captures the essence of Attack on Titan beatifully. A lot of people take things in AoT with face value, when it actually shines when you think about the philosophy of the show, and how every character is a moving piece in a board, being that the story of the anime is just a culmination of every characters choices, because they all were looking for something whatever that may be. Just like we are looking for something out of our lives, great job on this video, glad i stuck until the end
Finally a video that is deep in its analysis and not only a personal opinion said with fancy words! This is my favorite video about attack on titan until now, and it really helped me forming better my thoughts on the ending and what I like about the story in general. Thanks!
Why doesn't this video have 1.3million likes? Bro, what you did was immaculate........ The way you put this together...... Thank you for this. & AOT is the greatest anime of all time.
A great video! Seems like you know a lot about philosophy or have put a lot of effort into your research. I agree that freedom can also be scary since it comes with a lot of responsibilty. And as you mentioned there are different kinds of freedom. For me personally, being creative and crafting stories is the kind of freedom I seek and yes the freedom that comes with it can sometimes result in fear, which can result in writers block.
Thank you so much!!! I absolutely loved your video. You and I were cut of the same stone. “Unused creativity is not benign” (Brené Brown.) I’m excited to see what you cook up next. :)
I watched this video few months before the last episode of AOT. And for this reason I completely understood the the conversation of Armin with both zeke and Eren and the symbol of freedom as a sea shell. You were right, Armin is the answer to eren's idea of freedom.
This is one of the most impressive and enlightening videos I've seen. There's a lot of reflect on from here and I'm glad I chose to watch this whole video. Thank you for creating and sharing this!
Yeah youre right about the part where eren is looking from horizon, armin said it at the last final season, eren is always looking so far that he didnt even notice it (while armin is holding the sea shell) Your analysis is very 👍👍
beautiful video. I agree with most of what u said, great understanding of the series despite u being an anime only. Such a abstract and difficult concept so great job in making this video. Really loved what u said about Armin, definetely one of the freest charactes and is very idealistic and hopeful. And these ideas are futhur explored and all remain consistent in AoT's conclusion unlike what people say. Hope u enjoy the rest of the series! "we all have a devil inside of us, that is why the world turned out this way" - Niccolo commenting on the dark nature of humanity like u said, our innate desire for violence and conflict. The titans were created due to the mistreatment of a single girl which shows that humanity are the enemy and have always been. Ur correct a lot of freedom is actually found amidst darkness. "the world is cruel yet beautiful" - Mikasa Ackermann. Flowers in AoT are symbolic to freedom to grow while being rooted to ur enviroment. We see flowers near or under titans throughout series which shows that life can grow and freedom is possible even then. The new ED furthur emphasises this as we see the bird being caged up, however it transitions to a beautiful scenary showing us that freedom can be found even caged up in the middle of cruelty Yeah Eren is a slave and is so trapped by his desires hence why hes always in chains. "from the moment i was born, i have always been me" he claims that this innate desire has been with him since birth (nature), this monstrous evil desire for freedom. Which is a contrast to characters like Zeke who are defined by their experiences (nurture) Like u said never stopped to look at around him, and what actually matters, the small trivial moments. He doesn’t realize hes already free
Hey, I really appreciate your feedback! Yeah, I wanted to include that Niccolo quote, but I was avoiding season four spoilers. Great catch! And yes, Eren has certainly put himself in quite the predicament. How can one be free if their only aspiration is an IDEA of freedom? Thank you so much for the comment. :)
Honestly I think this video should have a lot more views - I've watched it atleast 10 times now and shit is still so touching that it brings tears to my eyes. No, honestly, this video changed my life - I've been struggling with depressions and adhd for years now and I feel like I was only looking at the part which is our own demise or rather my own and my loved ones demise which was actually killing my drive, I feel like I finally understood why it was so draining and why I had the feeling that nothing would ever change.. eventhough I thought I already had it figured out but now I feel like all of my beliefs and everything that I was holding on to got recontextualized and for the first time in almost 10 years I have a feeling of progression, a feeling that there is still hope left and that I might just need to change my point of view, or that I should atleast consider a change in points of views even when I think I'm right... There is so much going on in my head right now, it's hard for me to put it into words but I mean I'm still here, eventhough I thought I don't have a driving force.. now I know that I just didn't know what my driving force was. If you ever share the feeling of being useless and not having any purpose in life just mark my words, I'm still here, you saved me, you enabled the perspective for me to change my life to the better, so your impact ist undeniable and I cannot be more thankful for that
Dude… I’ve seen so many analysis videos on Aot, and I’ve seen so many go primarily on the views of just Eren. You’re point on Armin are HELLA ACCURATE especially in the ending of the manga
Truthfully, I think deep down, the irony is that he actually wanted to be. He wanted control, he wanted to dominate. “It’s who I’ve been since the time I was born.” The song beautifully showcases his duality. The person he’d like to believe he is versus who he is.
Armin and Jean are really the best characters who actually guide the main character, Armin may not be the protagonist, he is still a hero (season 3 ep17)
this is why i love anime. a simple concept made into a beautiful artform. a story, a lesson that will stay with us for our lives. the scouts will live on, with us.
Really wanted to say this This video is an actual essay. Most youtube essays on tv shows are appreciations of things those shows did very well and maybe a bit of comparison to real life, a bit of philosophizing. But this video is truly all philosophy: whether the finale of the show corresponds with Reddrik’s perspective or not, this video is one elaborate explanation of the meaning and value of freedom. Even if this isn’t the “ultimate interpretation of what Attack on Titan is about”, it is what stays with us after the story is over, even more, this is what we use for our most important reflections on our lives
to this day I keep wondering who was right, Armin or Eren Armin had always been terrified of Eren's self-endangerment (cf how he looks at ten year old eren vowing to kill al titans) because Armin was able to appreciate every moment despite being a dreamer himself. I haven't read the manga, so the last thing I have seen is Eren about to genocide entire nations, and despite the horror of it I find myself rooting for Eren to get to his probably very ephemeral moment of freedom. But setting aside my bias for Eren, even if Armin had the right answer to figuring out how to live life it is Eren who will give him and his friends more life to spend. I'm not even talking about the new possibilities (because with his inner peace, Armin had no need for that) after the enemies are gone, just the fact that the threat of their lives being ended prematurely will be gone. Maybe you can’t enjoy your life until you let go of your desires, but on the other hand renouncing your ambitions - your passions that you become drunk on- feels like a mistake. This reminds me of Eren’s abhorrence of Zeke’s solution for caged people being a rejection of life. If Armin can appreciate the flame that is the passion for life, how can he not understand someone who wants to stir up his own fire?
this is a really good breakdown, i hope millions more see this after the final season to understand the core concepts of AoT, because honestly, most of them just flew over my head when i was just watching/reading the manga
@@Reddrik And because of Eren's, Erwin's, Zeke's, and Levi's decisions in Part 2 of Season 3, Marlowe, Bert, and Erwin himself (along with hundreds of others) were faced "with mildly inconvenient consequences!!!!" And look at all the "mildly inconvenient consequences" many characters will be facing throughout Season 4, lol!
I dont think I've ever been closer to understanding freedom then after watching this show in conjunction with this video. Well done, i will listen to this essay over and over. I added it to my wisdom playlist. Thank you
That is one of the most well described anime videos I've ever watched let alone about AoT. I do agree that Isayama wasn't addressing the generic meaning of the word freedom, rather much deeper than that. AoT targets a very matured audience, oftentimes you have to look beyond actions and words to interpret the feeling of the situation. Since the anime/manga (thus the audience) focus mainly on Eren's character, a lot of time we totally ignore other fleshed out characters like Armin and Mikasa. I agree that it's the trio of Eren, Mikasa and Armin who will bring an end to this cycle of hatred, another important aspect of the manga/anime. I would recommend you to complete the manga, before watching the last few episodes of the anime. That way you can analyse Mikasa's character, and her effect on humanizing Eren's character (which is way more than her scarf and Ereh). There are multiple theories and evidences regarding an Anime original ending (AoE), something which is making more sense every passing day. I would like to see your take on that. Nevertheless, it's a great video! Kudos to your dedication and hard work!
Dude, thank you so much for the feedback and recommendations. Unfortunately, I am very subscribed to finishing the anime by itself. But as soon as the anime is complete, I will most likely pick up the manga and get involved with the stuff that comes with it. Either way, the trio is as interesting as Eren is a solo character. I may make a video on Mikasa sometime. Thank you again. :)
@@Reddrik A video on Mikasa would be so much appreciated ngl. She's one of the most misinterpreted character and unfortunately, there aren't any good analysis video on her
Your video is amazing and explains perfectly why Armin is my favorite character. There is a subtlety that isn't addressed and could be confusing though. Yes, Armin is dreaming of the now, something that exists in the present right now. But he has been dreaming of it since his childhood so he was dreaming about the future as well and going outside the walls to experience this now. He also looked at the horizon but to better look down if that makes sense. He also dreamed of something better but never stopped looking at the ground and kept his capacity to cherish the now. You perfectly explained the difference between him and Eren afterward anyway. Thinking about the future isn't against freedom, it can help you to get a better freedom.
I applaud you for making such a great in-depth video and you took your time explaining your arguments. I especially loved all of the neuroscience and philosophy discussing the human condition as well as exploring the allegories towards Christianity in Attack on Titan. As a Catholic, I really appreciate that you were respectful when quoting scripture and using it in a well thought-out and meaningful manner. I really look forward to knowing your thoughts when you watch/finish the final season, especially on Armin’s role in the story.
Thank you so much! I come from a Catholic background as well. Per my sometimes explicit language, I’m sure you can tell I may not be the most straight and narrow Catholic, but Catholicism is largely the reason I became who I am. I’m really glad the video resonated with you. God bless!
It's rather sad to see a lot of people are overanalyzed Eren but not Armin. Armin is the damn answer on the Attack on Titan conflicts and I am glad you point it out.
This was really a very must underrated theme of AOT, many makes vedio on Eren's twisted idea of freedom but Armin and his view on freedom is not discussed anywhere
Such a thoughtful and a wholesome video....Couldnt have thought of such a dimension ... Thanks for this video...( Usually i dont comment but you made me do this thing)
The more I think about this video and the pieces of philosophy you left us with, the more I think I understand Eren and his final choice. We all have some resentment against the world and that is something that I so wanted to hide from myself when I first read the manga. Something happened this weekend, an unfair exchange that left me numb for a day or two. And all I could think about was this video. I thought I would leave another comment, just to let you know that your content is THAT good. Also, I hope that you don’t have a problem with youtube again, stay safe.
I’m glad that, in a time of conflict, this stuff came to you. I think it’s more important during conflict to recall ideas like this than any other time.
@@Reddrik Yeah, I wanted to thank you because at least I know I am not alone. I feel like a horrible human being when I think to myself that most of us deserves to just, disappear. Existence is so hard and paradoxical.
@@kassyyar97 Existence is a pretty sick joke, a paradox on celestial proportions. One would have to be willingly blind to not admit to this. However, like Attack on Titan illustrates for us, there is a way to live within this paradox in a genuinely whole, affirming, even joyous way. Recall, Andy Defresne was a free man behind bars. Armin was a free man behind walls. It takes some level of stepping back to see, like pointillism. But once one sees it, they can’t ever go back to living the way they were before. :)
@@Reddrik you are right, enjoying the little trivial things is what makes it worth living. We cant go back from this mindset but to willingly choose to see the positives are what makes it worth it in the end. Thanks Red ✨
@@kassyyar97 Those little things are actually the biggest things, delivered in small packages. :) I’m glad to know my video resonated with you this much. Thank you for saying so.
Wish I could use my conciousness to connect with every single soul on the planet, letting them know their massiah has returned. But has no clue how to use his spiritual powers to help on a global scale. ☀️
Crazy I went into your Jean is not a horse video thinking it was going to be full of memelord comedy....got a introspective on my life I didn't even think I hear today, lol been watching all of your videos all day....Sir, you need a team so you can make more videos...well done
Thanks for watching, everyone! If you'd like to kindly support my content (AND ARE IN A POSITION TO DO SO): ko-fi.com/reddrik
hey man you make the best and most inspirational character analysis videos and just analysis videos in general. Every video i’m inspired. Thank you
He is an anime character don't compare anime to cartoons because those are two totally different genres of shows also we are not animals we are mammals and no they are not that's like saying levi and mikasa are the same like those two maybe ackermans but they couldn't be more different the only thing that makes them the same is their ackerman blood and the power they get when awakened but other than that their different so cut that shit out because you are wrong
I love your entire breakdown. Going deeper into characters subtle and overt story elements. The scouts representing freedom. I believe its unfair to believe that Armin is a truly free person any more than Eren. Armin like you said being Wisdom. Id take Armin takes the wise route but put him Eren shoes is his Freedom possible when Armin holds the key? Thoughts on this
You wwre right after the latest chapter everything u said: u were right ❤
Came for some attack on titan stuff, left with a life lesson.
AoT is a pretty good life lesson tbh. Thank you a bunch!
@@Reddrik the dude literally made an anime out of the lesson that most genius people gave like Carl jung
Isnt the series itself a big friggin lesson
@@saysamnang9851 yeah man
Finally, find someone who really understands Armin's character rather than calling him as useless or a simp.
Thank you! That’s kind of you. Armin is a tremendously written character. He had to come with some physical weaknesses - A perfect character is a boring one.
Yes, Armin's a simp.
Not only has he been simping for the enemy for 4 years, but has been doing it depressed shinji style. Disgusting.
@@evelynalex8787 LOL
@@evelynalex8787 Thanks for your kind information, I never noticed that...
who called him useless ? except himself ?
Eren may be the protagonist but Armin is the hero of Attack on Titan. He doesn't fight for vengeance, he fights for hope. Sure the world is cruel and merciless but it is also very beautiful. He fights because there is still some good in this world and it's worth fighting for.
Totally agreed.
That's interesting because back in 2014, Isayama told the director of the anime, that Armin is the hero of the story. And the series itself supports this. Especially in season 3.
@@1999bazz you mean season 4 right?
And yet, Armin fails and Paradis is destroyed by the outside world.
@@maddeninghustle6919that's Erens fault for choosing such a fucking stupid plan to try and make the world like paradis.
Crying over here, because ever since AOT, I've desired my own sort of freedom, and I didn't necessarily know what it was more until watching this. Through this show I feel I have reached a deeper state of consciousness
I’m glad the video resonated with you! :)
Being a gay furry isn’t freedom
Same dude
Same
+1
I want Eren's freedom😈🤣
IMPORTANT: Well, tragedy has struck. I got my entire channel deleted, along with all of my videos, because I took the time to thoughtfully respond to every single comment left on my videos. UA-cam says that’s spam, and now I’m very limited with who I can respond to. I got my channel back thankfully, and I don’t wanna risk that again. All my replies got deleted, which really, really sucks. Please do know that I read LITERALLY every single comment, I can leave “hearts” to let you know I’ve read it, but I have to be choosy with who I respond to now. Which sucks because I really loved some of the conversations that took place in this comment section.
If you’re ever looking to hold a dialogue with me, feel free to reach out on either the Instagram linked on my channel, or my business email. I don’t care at this point, I’m really bummed about having my speech limited here. Any email you take the time to send me, I can guarantee a response to.
Thank you all for the incredible support. TATAKE. We roll with the punches here.
- Red
can you watch japanese version of attack on titan?
ty
That’s alright bro just keep grinding we understand
You are so lovely
How ironic that he tried to show us freedom and then youtube took his freedom away from him
lol that is hilarious. Gotta love UA-cam 😂😒
One thing I really like about this is that you show proof for what symbols mean. I watch a lot of video essays where they just say “this flower symbolizes innocence” or “this color means xyz.” I wasn’t beliving the “bell” symbol until you actually took the time to explain it, and the reptile brain thing blew my minnddddd. Such a great vid
Of course! Thank you :)
Jung explaining to you what a symbol means: * the footnotes eclipse the amount of main text on the page for the rest of the chapter *
In a sense you could say that freedom is the ability to chose your own shackles.
Absolutely agree.
@@Reddrik Don't get it. Guess I'm just not as good at playing intellectual games as you two.
@@sroth2021 We’re just talking bro lol where’s the game
@@Reddrik He is currently signed to WWE and is the Executive Vice President of Global Talent Strategy & Development of WWE.
@@sroth2021 *Motörhead starts playing*
Something I think many people get wrong about Eren’s character is they don’t understand freedom in the slightest. Most people sum up Eren’s fight for freedom to be like chasing a ring, or some sort of unachievable insanity. Hence why so many see him as this stupid kid, even to this day.
Freedom is to be able to choose; to be able to make your own decisions and face the consequences for your own decisions within fair restrictions such as not harming anybody and not trespassing upon anybody.
This has been robbed of Eren.
Due to the walls, due to the titans, due to Marley, due to the outside world, Eren is not free. He is not allowed to do as pleases. If he wanted to go to another country freely as Eren Jaeger himself, he would be ridiculed and most likely killed. This is not a fair restriction, thus a reduction of freedom, a robbery of it.
Others ARE allowed to do what he would like to do as well, thus proving the reduction of freedom.
Recall armins first speech in season 1 when he awakens Eren to carry the rock- Armin: “why did you want to go outside when you know it will most likely die a bloody death” Eren: “why? You know why… BECAUSE I WAS BORN INTO THIS WORLD” then he burns away his entire family including Mikasa which represents that nobody comes before freedom.
Eren is like the kind of guy who would go camping on a mountain filled with bears and steep cliff edges, and telling him he is not allowed to. This is wrong, and he’d be right to be enraged. It is HIS life. He is allowed to make his own choices, despite the risks, he is open to holding the consequences for whatever choice he makes, even if he dies. He WANTS the responsibility. Eren values his quality of life above living. You cannot have a quality of life without freedom, without the ability to choose freely.
I am an Eren fan, but because he so deeply represents something I have never seen another character, or even human represent so well outside of my own self. Freedom is a fucking right. I believe people that have never have their freedom trampled upon/restricted (which can only happen because of another human being as of right now) will never understand the value of it, they’ll never understand the fight necessary to obtain it and hence, never understand Eren.
I believe 99% of people in society aren’t truly free, maybe in the physical sense, but not mentally, and should take a note from Eren’s book.
(I know the video wasn’t about Eren nor his freedom, rather the overarching themes of this stories interpretations of freedom, but I think it’s necessary to have a dialogue about Eren’s interpretation of freedom here too)
Great video btw man, Ik the hard work it takes.
This summation could’ve been a video unto itself. However, I did skip over Eren’s sense of freedom, and that was actually deliberate - There are already PLENTY of other analysis on UA-cam that do, or attempt to do it.
Freedom to, and freedom from, are core to understanding AoT, I completely agree. I actually had a whole fourth section describing it, but I got rid of it because it was the same shit you’ve heard in 20 video essays already.
However, I think Isayama refutes the principle to some degree. How do we know if what we want is actually what we want? Are our desires ours? Or were they imposed upon us by our culture, our walls, by the society around us? That’s a VERY relevant theme to season 4. You’re totally correct in your evaluation, though, I’m with you on that.
Also, I appreciate all the time you took to leave feedback, it was very well organized and communicated. Thanks man. I get so excited seeing comments like this.
Eren’s friends are just as important to him as his is freedom, he stated that they mean more than anyone else to him and that he wants them to live long lives in episode 10 of season 4 when they’re on the small train after they’ve extended the train track, especially Mikasa, if you see his demeanour throughout season 4 you can tell that he’s saddened by the growing separation between him and Mikasa.
Eren throughout the series has become more and more consumed by his idea of freedom that he would take away the freedom of others even if they had nothing to do with him, he is willing to take away the freedom of others like Bertholdt and Reiner did to him in order to have his own freedom, that’s why Eren says he’s the same as Reiner in the declaration of war episode. Eren’s freedom is a idealistic and corrupted freedom by nature, everyone choices in AOT has a consequence and affect on other people’s choices and therefore no one is truely free of consequence and free for choice, Eren’s choices are limited by the choices of others and now Eren is limiting the choices of others through his choice, he’s taking away the freedom that others have taken away from him thus continuing the cycle of hatred and revenge. Eren is losing himself and as a result everything else because of his ideal freedom.
Armin on the other hand accepts the world for what it is and makes compromises to get what he wants, he’s willing to make compromises on his own choices and freedom so that someone else can have that freedom, he’s a peacemaker and is one thats willing to make sacrifices in order to reach a fair freedom where as many people possible can have fair choice and chance in life. Armin makes the best out of everything that he has.
@@BigJMC Armin’s special ability to compromise is largely what the latter half of the video was about - You’re spot on in your evaluation, I think. Have you seen Bruce Lee’s monologue on “being as water?” m.ua-cam.com/video/cJMwBwFj5nQ/v-deo.html
Also, thanks so much for the response. You put an impressive amount of effort into it. 😂
@@BigJMC Eren takes away the freedom of others IF they threaten his and his friends,family, and homeland's freedom. That's what people are missing. Eren is very aware of the consequences and has submitted at times in order to get a long lasting result it's just the times he has stand down from taking action, IE: trusting others to get a job done that he himself was capable of doing; The world ends up betraying him on that end(Levi's squad vs Annie as a key example). Not going to talk about Eren's character post chapters 124-125 because that's when the story becomes blurred with his character namely the endgame.
This is so good, holy. I didn't expect the amount of references, philosophical questions and analysis of the human condition. I love that you tied all this to Jung, because that's exactly the type of messages Isayama conveyed through the story. The whole story fits so well with the concept of the Collective Subconscious and the Shadow. Amazing work.
I really appreciate that! Thank you! All of this stuff has been intertwined since the beginning. :)
@@Reddrik 💜💜
Wait til you realize all stories use the shadow
This video is the culmination of about six months of hard work. I pride myself on not being the kind to ask for engagement, but if you feel this video resonated with you in any way, I'd deeply appreciate a like and a subscribe. My next AoT video essay is already well underway! If you wanna do any further reading, I have a small bookshop linked in the description that will bring you right to every resource I referenced in this video, and it's a really great way to help support my channel. TATAKAE.
Season 4 is bs and those themes can brme twisted. Also, it is a stupid look of reality. Plus it is only an atheist perspective to some degree. Most people are religious to sone degree. Where most religious are the Muslims. Those themes don't apply for China or Muslim world.
Also generally that is not how the world work, that is part of how the world works. Plus, he is making alot of claims here. Whom non are really true.
@@ailediablo79 Oooo. Okay I'll bite.
"Whom non are really true."
Give an example.
You need to put season 4 in here too! So much is in season 4.
@@groaningwolf I plan on it once the season is over!
@@Exile_Sky i was talking about the writer. Example: you don't need to fight a monster with a devil, but an angle, or as you are.
There is no darkness in humans. Humans are not evil but capable to do so, when the environment and conditions go out of control for the individual without getting help.
Evil is not a thing. Evil is the absence of good.
Our shadow is a good thing. Anger and aggression when controled directed properly are part of bravery and honor, they are not bad or even evil or natural they are good things.
We are, humans not animals. We are spiritual creatures before the physical. Even the physical is not part of the animal kingdom. Humans have no evolution. Darwinism is one of 4 theories of evolution, anyway.
Also justice is far more important than freedom but from justice comes freedom. Therefore, you cannot discuss freedom without talking about justice itself first. There is more things comes from justice than just freedom.
Also freedom is not that much of an importance except when it is almost nonexistenting or justice is not served properly. Freedom on it is own is liberation and liberation without a powerful big problem before it like slavery then it becomes evil as it transgressions justice of it is right.
Too much thinking of freedom is not necessary. It is not important as long justice is there. As i said there is many big other aspects or consequences of justice equal to freedom including freedom. Freedom on it is own turns to a monster.
Simply you do what you do and f anyone in your way regardless of anything.
Walls shouldn't be a simple. They are just a tool in the story not an expression.
The ones behind the walls are free. The walls are not a small thing.
This is not freedom we talking about it is greed and fear.
Freedom is not in the dark, it is in our heart.
All those quotes are as dark as the anime because those people harts are dark.
True freedom is to worship no one nor yourself, but one that doesn't need u. To be brave and never ever nelle to anyone no matter what not even a bit.
Restrictions don't limit freedom but they preserve freedom by making freedom doesn't become a sin of greed, lust and gluttony. Freedom must not outway justice. Civilization is not a chain. It is a tool a weapon that justice goes back too and protects freedom and equality ie independence and slef conciousness. Freedom is to know who you are.
Freedom is not doing what you want just because you want too. Freedom is just you are not controled and own your own slef determination.
Freedom doesn't need knowledge but liberty does (there is a huge difference). Freedom needs wisdom of choice. Justice what needs knowledge and power.
Everyone is a slave of something. Being totally free is not necessary, not important has no additional benefits. However it is only possible if you warship no one but one.
arrogance and ignorance is unstable and un inescapable without God's guidance as no matter how much we would know even if we live for eternity is not going to be enough by any level and almost meaningless.
Freedom on it is own becomes nihilism.
Fear no one but one. Casting a shadow is not always bad. Because that shadow is justice protecting freedom when necessary, needed. However freedom is in the light.
A principal can't be talked about without other ones. Freedom on it is own is evil. So everything else.
I can keep going but i will stop here.
"Freedom from one paradigm just submits us to another"
"The key to one's shackles usually erect new prisons. New bars but bars all the same"
I can't believe that someone finally understands what i was thinking about for the past several months
I was sick of seeing people understanding Eren but not surpassing that line, not seeing why the core of his ideology was corrupted
Thanks for this video, I haven't seen anyone talk about Eren from this perspective which I think is the point of the whole story
As someone who finished the manga, not going into spoilers but your explanation of true freedom hits way home to how the story ends - it's what I always thought but could never put into words. Eren will never obtain the freedom he seeks because he is the one who puts the shackles upon himself, but Armin is the most free because he dissociates from all that and simply lives in the moment.
It's actually insane that you haven't read the ending, yet your description on freedom holds more true than any video I've seen on Attack on Titan, manga or anime. Good work!
Phew, I’m glad I wasn’t too far off the mark! Thanks so much for saying so. :)
@@Reddrik One thing I'm confused though, what do you mean by internal freedom and external freedom that Eren and Armin have? Is it because Eren shackles himself by his external and physical barriers (the walls, titans, humans) whilst Armin can enjoy himself without actually having to see the sea?
an absolute brilliance of a video. this insight and connecting of information made a series that was already very deep and thought-provoking, into a masterpiece, and a one of kind life experience.
I'll never watch AOT the same again, you unvailed to me the true form of this already great piece of art. so, deeply, THANK YOU.
It’s my pleasure! Thank you so much for your feedback. Enjoy it. :)
Agreed, thank you for making this. You're awesome, subbed!!
@@TheReturn26 Thank you a bunch! That’s kind of you. :)
You actually nailed it with Armin. But also in a way that I don't know if you were conscious of. Isayama actually said that Armin is like a childhood friend of his. His friend is not naive but is able to see beauty and joy in the life that oppresses Isayama who always felt shackled.
Armin and Eren are opposites of the same question. Eren years for what he lacks and assumes that is freedom while Armin joys of what is there and what ultimately culminates his character is letting go of the expectations that came from his revival, which sets him as the freest of them all.
I actually vaguely remember reading that interview a long time ago, maybe it planted a seed that turned into this video.
Coming back to this video after the finale.
You understood Armin's character PERFECTLY.
Such a bittersweet day with my favorite story ever ending but this video never fails to get me emotional.
It always makes me fall in love with AoT all over again.
you may not be a manga reader but you might've hit the nail on the head with Armin
I guess we’ll see! Thanks! :)
Yeah, turns out he understood Armin better then Isayama did
@@ReddrikActually right the fuck on like I was watching the ending and when Armin had his monologue all I could think of was your video.
@@The-Big-Boss CALLED THAT SHIT
BRO, this video is one of the best when covering aot and its thematic ideas. As a manga reader I fully applaud you for all the points to stated regarding freedom(you will understand more when u finish the series). Really well thought out, and I'm very impressed of how much research you did even before season 4. You got mostly everything!! ranging from Kenny's speech to Armin's perspective of the world, though there is one character you missed but not big deal > Zeke and Armin are one the best character contrasts to develop in the upcoming season. good job man
Thank you so much, that’s really kind of you! Maybe I’ll drop a Zeke video once season 4 wraps up. 👀
I really haven’t seen an anime-only as knowledgable as you about Attack on Titan. I really applaud you for your efforts. Those six months of work really shine through, I appreciate it
Thank you so much!! I appreciate it! :)
No you are not guilty of anything. In fact this is by far the best video essay I have ever seen. So many people are trapped in rehashing the story but forget to break it down. This video essay is backed by evidence, references, and primary sources constructed in an organized manner so well, the only negative thing is how come this channel only has 4k subs at this point.
This comment is a serious accolade. Thank you so much!!
Imo aot is a plot based story
In a plot based storythe ending is the message conveyed
So to understand the story means understand whats the message the writter is building up to
Wow, this is really insightful! I’ve never heard anyone talk about this before, what inspired you to dive into all of this?
Hajime Isayamamama did.
Thank you!!
You’re welcome :)
@@Reddrik bruh that’s so disrespectful that’s not his real name.
You forgot like 5 m’s
@@isaidoun I like to imagine that, in mangakas, the more exaggerated the name, the more successful they are.
My favorite mangaka is Isayamamamamamamamaamamamamamamamamama.
@@Reddrik MUDAMUDAMUDAMUDAMUDAISAYAMUDAMUDAAAA
AOT is literally so goated I can't see any story surpassing it for a long time, amazing video!!
For ten years at least!
Thank you a bunch. :)
Live the present, that's what freedom is. If you think about the past or the future, you'll get bound by your own thoughts. Isayama has really created something that explains probably everything which is not possible without actual conversation. Attack On Titan is truly the embodiment of ideas which can liberate the minds of people. When you said Smiling Titan and Eren are the same person, I just got shocked, I mean, you haven't read the manga, have you? but you already know one of the most important events in AOT's ending.
Yeah, I'm a filthy anime-only. I'm looking forward to seeing the resolution. Isayama's work is pretty remarkable. I really appreciate your takeaway, I think it's incredibly astute.
I get what you meant with Dina!!
Thank you so much for a Buddhist interpretation at the end. Clinging to our illusions, our shackles, won't make us freer, happier, or safer. It will drive you insane in the end. Great video!
I think all that Buddhist stuff is definitely embedded in the story. Either way, whether my interpretation or intention on Isayama’s part, it’s definitely applicable! If the shoe fits, y’know? Thank you so much!
Yeah I am Buddhist and Kennys final words were completely Buddhism
Also Erwins saying that till there are atleast 2 people on the world peace wouldnt be achieved
_"It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society."_ - Jiddu Krishnamurti
I’d love to hear a conversation between Krishnamurti and Fromm.
I come back and watch this video regularly. The multi disciplinary ties, the metaphorical connections, it's a perfect video. Resonated is too light a word. This video could be used to help people struggling and those who are blissfully ignorant of hardships in the world. I've always thought on this but never seen it so perfectly put togeather in 36 minutes no less. This was beautiful and I hope more people are expose to it. Liked, followed, and ever faithful viewer.
That is outstandingly kind of you to say, thank you so much!
Furret's random facts: there is no actual proof that today is tuesday, we just have to belive it that someone kept the count
YES. THANK YOU BASED FURRET.
It's very rare I watch a youtube video about anime and come away thinking "I've gotta read those books they quoted." I'm going to do just that though I am very intrigued. Great video!
“Maybe the reason I was born was so that the three of us could be racing there”
-Armin
I haven’t gotten to that quote yet since I’m a filthy anime-only, but that sentiment would definitely reinforce the theme of this video. Maybe I’ll make an updated version once the anime wraps up!
Lost a loved one earlier this year.
Had one of the darkest years of my life.
Only after truly accepting his lose… I starting feeling free again.
Painfully liberating.
I felt everything you said here mate.
Thank for you this.
the idea that our passions and dreams are just delusions, walls to protect us from the reality of death, implies that passions and desires are only a means to this end, and fails to consider that they are worth living for
if desire was just something we tell ourselves to cope with death, then anyone who lives forever would have no desire
I softly cried with a lump in my throat during the whole video. I felt everything you just explained by seeing the anime. Thank you for giving sense to what art's epiphany makes feel.
I’m really glad the video resonated with you so much. Thank you so much for the comment. :)
28:33 Isayama mentioned in an interview "ANSWERS" back in like 2017 ? 2016? that Eren copied Armin by making up a "dream" of his own.
You're absolutely right about Armin. Holy sh1t. He's the freest character in the show, because he already gave up on his dreams in season 3 part 2. He's free from his dreams, desires, ego. He's free.
Armin possesses every mark of what Lao Tzu called the moderate man. 😄
@@drmosaddegh not so free when he literally have the entire world about to kill them and WILL kill them if anyone doesn’t do something
@@f.b.lagent1113 your definition of freedom here isn’t entirely the same as the one being discussed by who you’re replying to.
Everyone is a slave to something. In Christianity we like to say that everyone has a God-shaped hole in their heart. That everyone worships something whether they know it or not.
Freedom doesn't come from having no master, freedom comes from choosing your master and embracing it. That is why one is most free when he is responsible and disciplined. He is in control of his own fate, his own actions and isn't driven purely by instinct or sin. That is true freedom and I believe that Attack on Titan has a great way of exploring how people nowadays have the wrong view of freedom. How many are not free when they believe themselves to be.
Great video! I have always known that AOT has a lot of great themes that reflect our era as many great works do. You explained it well!
I agree with your sentiment a hundred percent. The cultural gods and new age prophets our walls send to us HAVE to be rejected, spirit is found very, very, very far away from them. I really appreciate your insight, that’s a great takeaway. Thank you so much!
This was really well made. Everything I’ve been thinking about, already been trying to formulate, you’ve put into one video. I was nodding with joy when you brought up how Armin was truly grounded in reality, while eren was perverted in a sense. It’s all about your own inner state
Exactly! Inner state, and whether or not your inner state is assailable by your environment. Good insight. Thank you a bunch.
All the things you said about Armin are on point. Hard to believe you haven't read the manga.
Aye, thank you so much for saying so. I’m glad my guesses weren’t too far off the mark lol
The philosophy of Attack on Titan is so beautiful. Isayama is one of my favourite people ever for writing this transcendent masterpiece. I wish I could meet him.
Same. I wanna shake the dude’s hand.
@@Reddrik Who knows, maybe one day it's possible to meet him. Btw your videos, this one especially, are amazing. Subscribed!
@@RaffyDGoat Thank you so much!
Cannot provide a big enough thumbs-up for this well-thought out video essay. You hit the central theme to this story on its head, and used enough evidence to support your interpretation. I look forward to seeing your interpretation once the show is finished.
Thank you so much! I am kinda dreading the end since everyone says it absolutely sucks. We’ll see though, fingers crossed haha.
I stated this in another comment chain on your video, but I think it's worth reiterating here. Please don't let people's perceptions (positive or negative) of the manga ending color your experience of the anime's ending. As you pointed out in the video, the best approach will be to simply experience the story as it unfolds, free from expectations, and then go from there.
I have seen far too many people trying to force their perspectives and feelings onto others regarding the ending. I would encourage not only you but everyone to approach the anime ending with an open mind, free of preconceptions. After all, the anime ending belongs to itself, not the manga. Regardless of how closely (or not) it chooses to follow the manga.
@@nspaulding07 Oh, absolutely. Don’t worry, this story means far too much to me to just adopt someone’s else’s perception of it. I’m going in with an open mind, and I’m excited to see it.
Dude you need a fucking award for this video (and I’m not even done watching it 😂) you perfectly describe and illustrate something that society fails to acknowledge and how it correlates to our everyday actions and behaviors the themes you talk about are just profound and amazing to witness because it makes sense to the show. IMO I think Attack on Titan is the greatest story of all time because it tells tales of the human mind body and spirit that we as a society only scratch the surface off Im in awe at the realization and I wanna thank you for putting in the effort with the psychology annotations and quotes because it fits so well THANK YOU!!!!!
Forget an award, this comment is an accolade enough. Thank you so much for the kind words. :)
This is beautiful, and has aged incredibly well. You encompass the ending, and the fallout of Eren and Armin’s characters, quite clearly, and that really speaks to the time you’ve spent thinking about this series. Thank you for compiling such a thoughtful, compelling, researched, and truthful exploration of this story! It was a joy to listen to, and I’ll definitely recommend it to others.
Going back to this video after the ending of AOT gives me new light on all the information that i learned.
This is fucking incredible. It’s everything I’ve ever loved about freedom and more, and of everything that goes into the deep symbolism, harshness and raw truth of it. Thank you, this brought tears to my eyes with the effort and candidness you put into this analysis. I feel the same way as Eren; I want the responsibility of freedom and my right to choose. I know I was born with freedom but that while it can be taken from me, I have the right to fight back and retrieve that which was lost, despite that I was born free; my existence alone means I have it. My right to choose, my right to live. To live with making decisions on my own accord and accepting the consequences, but not being oppressed by others.
I’m glad you were able to connect with the video. Thanks! :)
"Freedom as knowledge" and "Freedom as selfishness" are the greatest analyses I've ever seen regarding AOT.
Ngl that conclusion made me tear up
Great research.. great video man.
Kudos to you 🎉
Thank you so much! That’s very kind of you to say. I’m really glad it resonated with you so much.
this is the most sophisticated analysis of freedom in aot that I've seen on UA-cam, incredible stuff. seizing the moment and choosing to let go of preconceived dreams like Kenny does as he dies, is what freedom ought to be
I just wanna say thank you for how much effort you put in this, AoT is a great show already but you even make it better, like a whole new masterpiece.
Thank you so much, that seriously means a lot. I appreciate your sincerity. I’m glad to have helped out. :)
“If you can’t let it go, it’s not worth holding onto!”
I used to be rather famed in an animation server, but due to irl circumstances I could simply no longer find the time to produce anything.
At the beginning, I was absolutely devastated. I felt like a part of me died. Something important that defined me seemed to have ‘died’. The insurmountable level of suffering I tasted every single moment my eyes looked at something that wasn’t my computer broke my mental state so badly I can no longer remember exactly how pained I was during that time.
I don’t know what caused me to change, but the present me can truly let go of my artistic pursuits- not just animation, but everything else.
It’s not like I don’t care anymore, I still really, really want to come back to animation, but I just don’t feel that mortifying weakness when I first lost the time required to produce animations.
Perhaps it’s just that I was shackled.
I thought I grinded my way up to the top, that I was the one in control and I was a person who could create great works.
But ironically, I, perhaps never really enjoyed the fame and talent.
I only thought I enjoyed my fame and talent, but in reality, my fame and talent were literally and figuratively devouring me.
As an non-AoT fan that even likes the anti-mainstream mindset, I never thought that AoT would invoke such strong reflections upon myself.
I am grateful to you for producing this video.
Sounds like your creative pursuits were covering something up. Taking them away, left with facing whatever existential dread or pondering you were avoiding, seems like it’s helped you in the long run.
Very solid insight. :)
The one thing that throws a wrench in the bit about Eren not being able to appreciate reaching the sea as Armin had is actually explained in Season 4, otherwise you would've been pretty spot-on in your analysis. Basically a BIG realization happened that jaded him for ever.
Gotcha! I’m looking forward to making an update once I’m in the loop on the rest of the story.
@@Reddrik When you do i'll be back!
YOU NAILED IT ON THE HEAD!! With the finale we know that freedom for Armin was racing to the tree, reading a book; And for Zeke it was playing catch.
This video brings me back to core realisations I've made during Zen buddhism classes. That my ultimate fear is death, that everything I do is to avoid facing that fear, and that to realise true freedom I need to rid myself of all my preconceived notions of it.
I had never approached AOT from this lens. What an incredible analysis. Thank you.
How the hell do you only have 500 subs? The level of care and effort put into every word in this video is simply amazing
I'll look forward to your next works!
I appreciate that so much!
I love how there's still so much I missed or couldn't put into words about this show
Always more to discover!
Loved it.
Looking forward to more!
Quality > quantity for sure.
Thank you a bunch! The next video should be out relatively soon, all things considered.
@@Reddrik np! ^^
holy god dayum , that was sooo deep and so ... raw .... Your ideas on the basis of 3 seasons are so strong and correct, your "projections" of what might come in future episodes, what eren is and what he will go through, the entire philosophy of attack on titan is so thoroughly sketched out in this video. I have to watch this 10 times ATLEAST to even begin to absorb and understand the ideas in this video. Would love to hear your thoughts about attack on titan now, be it till where anime has ended or the entire manga( which is now complete) . Make it 3 hours long lecture, i don't care, I will religiously watch it for i have not understood a spec of eren's character from the story and through these video essays i only get hints. Please, Please make another one of this video essay encompassing entire attack on titan's story.
24:40-24:56 was a real hit to the heart for me. I’m a very spiritual philosophical person who always tryna decode things like freedom or mortality etc. I hope one day every human becomes philosophical o
That was a difficult part to write, truthfully. I’m glad it resonated with you.
This was extremely well written and captures the essence of Attack on Titan beatifully. A lot of people take things in AoT with face value, when it actually shines when you think about the philosophy of the show, and how every character is a moving piece in a board, being that the story of the anime is just a culmination of every characters choices, because they all were looking for something whatever that may be. Just like we are looking for something out of our lives, great job on this video, glad i stuck until the end
So am I!! Thank you so much for the comment.
The conclusion to this essay suddenly reminded me of the ending of Pixar's movie Soul. Life is in the little things
Finally a video that is deep in its analysis and not only a personal opinion said with fancy words! This is my favorite video about attack on titan until now, and it really helped me forming better my thoughts on the ending and what I like about the story in general. Thanks!
Why doesn't this video have 1.3million likes? Bro, what you did was immaculate........ The way you put this together...... Thank you for this. & AOT is the greatest anime of all time.
I deeply appreciate that, thank you. 1.3 million is a terrifying number, I’ll settle for 35k.
A great video! Seems like you know a lot about philosophy or have put a lot of effort into your research. I agree that freedom can also be scary since it comes with a lot of responsibilty. And as you mentioned there are different kinds of freedom. For me personally, being creative and crafting stories is the kind of freedom I seek and yes the freedom that comes with it can sometimes result in fear, which can result in writers block.
Thank you so much!!! I absolutely loved your video. You and I were cut of the same stone. “Unused creativity is not benign” (Brené Brown.) I’m excited to see what you cook up next. :)
@@Reddrik Thank you, too! :) I'm also looking very much forward to your next video!
the first three chapters were really interesting, the fourth gave me a really bad anxiety attack, and the fifth was just beautiful. what a ride lol
Sorry about that!
I watched this video few months before the last episode of AOT.
And for this reason I completely understood the the conversation of Armin with both zeke and Eren and the symbol of freedom as a sea shell. You were right,
Armin is the answer to eren's idea of freedom.
This is one of the most impressive and enlightening videos I've seen. There's a lot of reflect on from here and I'm glad I chose to watch this whole video. Thank you for creating and sharing this!
Thank you so much for saying so! That’s really cool of you.
Freedom is crushing your enemies or those who did you wrong. That was eren's childhood dream and his idea of freedom.
Our ideas enslave us, friend.
Yeah youre right about the part where eren is looking from horizon, armin said it at the last final season, eren is always looking so far that he didnt even notice it (while armin is holding the sea shell)
Your analysis is very 👍👍
You deserve more than 1.1k subs with this quality of an analysis. It was so intellectual
Thank you so much! I’m pleasantly surprised by the 1k anyhow!
This is the most philosophical review of AOT I've ever seen 😂 And I'm loving it!
Attack on Titan goes deep! Thanks, Aaron Yogurt 😂
Phenomenal video and commentary. Please keep this up. Your thinking is rare, and I truly believe that the story's conclusion won't be wasted on you.
This was way deeper than I thought it was going to be.
AoT goes deep!
OMG! I cried man. This is the best video I have seen. Love you brother.
Thank you a bunch! All love!
beautiful video. I agree with most of what u said, great understanding of the series despite u being an anime only. Such a abstract and difficult concept so great job in making this video. Really loved what u said about Armin, definetely one of the freest charactes and is very idealistic and hopeful. And these ideas are futhur explored and all remain consistent in AoT's conclusion unlike what people say. Hope u enjoy the rest of the series!
"we all have a devil inside of us, that is why the world turned out this way" - Niccolo commenting on the dark nature of humanity like u said, our innate desire for violence and conflict. The titans were created due to the mistreatment of a single girl which shows that humanity are the enemy and have always been.
Ur correct a lot of freedom is actually found amidst darkness. "the world is cruel yet beautiful" - Mikasa Ackermann. Flowers in AoT are symbolic to freedom to grow while being rooted to ur enviroment. We see flowers near or under titans throughout series which shows that life can grow and freedom is possible even then. The new ED furthur emphasises this as we see the bird being caged up, however it transitions to a beautiful scenary showing us that freedom can be found even caged up in the middle of cruelty
Yeah Eren is a slave and is so trapped by his desires hence why hes always in chains. "from the moment i was born, i have always been me" he claims that this innate desire has been with him since birth (nature), this monstrous evil desire for freedom. Which is a contrast to characters like Zeke who are defined by their experiences (nurture) Like u said never stopped to look at around him, and what actually matters, the small trivial moments. He doesn’t realize hes already free
Hey, I really appreciate your feedback! Yeah, I wanted to include that Niccolo quote, but I was avoiding season four spoilers. Great catch! And yes, Eren has certainly put himself in quite the predicament. How can one be free if their only aspiration is an IDEA of freedom?
Thank you so much for the comment. :)
Honestly I think this video should have a lot more views - I've watched it atleast 10 times now and shit is still so touching that it brings tears to my eyes.
No, honestly, this video changed my life - I've been struggling with depressions and adhd for years now and I feel like I was only looking at the part which is our own demise or rather my own and my loved ones demise which was actually killing my drive, I feel like I finally understood why it was so draining and why I had the feeling that nothing would ever change.. eventhough I thought I already had it figured out but now I feel like all of my beliefs and everything that I was holding on to got recontextualized and for the first time in almost 10 years I have a feeling of progression, a feeling that there is still hope left and that I might just need to change my point of view, or that I should atleast consider a change in points of views even when I think I'm right...
There is so much going on in my head right now, it's hard for me to put it into words but I mean I'm still here, eventhough I thought I don't have a driving force.. now I know that I just didn't know what my driving force was.
If you ever share the feeling of being useless and not having any purpose in life just mark my words, I'm still here, you saved me, you enabled the perspective for me to change my life to the better, so your impact ist undeniable and I cannot be more thankful for that
Bro, this video made realize a lot of different things, thank you so much
I’m really glad it resonated with you. Thanks for saying so. :)
@@Reddrik sure :)
Dude… I’ve seen so many analysis videos on Aot, and I’ve seen so many go primarily on the views of just Eren. You’re point on Armin are HELLA ACCURATE especially in the ending of the manga
Had to show some love to the deuteragonist! Thank you!
“All I ever wanted to do was do right things, never wanted to be the king…I swear”
Truthfully, I think deep down, the irony is that he actually wanted to be. He wanted control, he wanted to dominate. “It’s who I’ve been since the time I was born.” The song beautifully showcases his duality. The person he’d like to believe he is versus who he is.
What a great, well written and thought-provoking video! Looking forward to the next one
Thank you so much! That means a lot.
Dear God this video was deeep and rooted in solid information, one of the best essays I've seen on UA-cam
Dude, thank you so much. Your comment made my day. I’ve got another video dropping on Jean very soon. 👍🏼
Armin and Jean are really the best characters who actually guide the main character, Armin may not be the protagonist, he is still a hero (season 3 ep17)
Totally agreed! I actually made a video on jean.
@@Reddrik already watched, really, your're one of the only people who actually understand these characters and attack on Titan as a whole
I really am looking forward for your analysis on the end of the final season, your video gave me chills a good amount of times!
Thank you so much! I’m looking forward to it myself.
this is why i love anime.
a simple concept made into a beautiful artform. a story, a lesson that will stay with us for our lives.
the scouts will live on, with us.
Devote your heart my g
Really wanted to say this
This video is an actual essay. Most youtube essays on tv shows are appreciations of things those shows did very well and maybe a bit of comparison to real life, a bit of philosophizing. But this video is truly all philosophy: whether the finale of the show corresponds with Reddrik’s perspective or not, this video is one elaborate explanation of the meaning and value of freedom. Even if this isn’t the “ultimate interpretation of what Attack on Titan is about”, it is what stays with us after the story is over, even more, this is what we use for our most important reflections on our lives
to this day I keep wondering who was right, Armin or Eren
Armin had always been terrified of Eren's self-endangerment (cf how he looks at ten year old eren vowing to kill al titans) because Armin was able to appreciate every moment despite being a dreamer himself. I haven't read the manga, so the last thing I have seen is Eren about to genocide entire nations, and despite the horror of it I find myself rooting for Eren to get to his probably very ephemeral moment of freedom.
But setting aside my bias for Eren, even if Armin had the right answer to figuring out how to live life it is Eren who will give him and his friends more life to spend. I'm not even talking about the new possibilities (because with his inner peace, Armin had no need for that) after the enemies are gone, just the fact that the threat of their lives being ended prematurely will be gone.
Maybe you can’t enjoy your life until you let go of your desires, but on the other hand renouncing your ambitions - your passions that you become drunk on- feels like a mistake. This reminds me of Eren’s abhorrence of Zeke’s solution for caged people being a rejection of life.
If Armin can appreciate the flame that is the passion for life, how can he not understand someone who wants to stir up his own fire?
I think this video catches the meaning of the ending pretty well
this is a really good breakdown, i hope millions more see this after the final season to understand the core concepts of AoT, because honestly, most of them just flew over my head when i was just watching/reading the manga
Me too! Thank you a bunch.
"her father is faced with with mildly inconvenient consequences"
*Massive explosions*
We can’t forget Petra either
@@Reddrik And because of Eren's, Erwin's, Zeke's, and Levi's decisions in Part 2 of Season 3, Marlowe, Bert, and Erwin himself (along with hundreds of others) were faced "with mildly inconvenient consequences!!!!"
And look at all the "mildly inconvenient consequences" many characters will be facing throughout Season 4, lol!
@@wanna-be-thinker2377 Inconveniences: The Show
I dont think I've ever been closer to understanding freedom then after watching this show in conjunction with this video. Well done, i will listen to this essay over and over. I added it to my wisdom playlist. Thank you
Just found your channel. So excited to take in your content!
Thank you! Enjoy!
That is one of the most well described anime videos I've ever watched let alone about AoT. I do agree that Isayama wasn't addressing the generic meaning of the word freedom, rather much deeper than that. AoT targets a very matured audience, oftentimes you have to look beyond actions and words to interpret the feeling of the situation.
Since the anime/manga (thus the audience) focus mainly on Eren's character, a lot of time we totally ignore other fleshed out characters like Armin and Mikasa. I agree that it's the trio of Eren, Mikasa and Armin who will bring an end to this cycle of hatred, another important aspect of the manga/anime. I would recommend you to complete the manga, before watching the last few episodes of the anime. That way you can analyse Mikasa's character, and her effect on humanizing Eren's character (which is way more than her scarf and Ereh).
There are multiple theories and evidences regarding an Anime original ending (AoE), something which is making more sense every passing day. I would like to see your take on that.
Nevertheless, it's a great video! Kudos to your dedication and hard work!
Dude, thank you so much for the feedback and recommendations. Unfortunately, I am very subscribed to finishing the anime by itself. But as soon as the anime is complete, I will most likely pick up the manga and get involved with the stuff that comes with it. Either way, the trio is as interesting as Eren is a solo character. I may make a video on Mikasa sometime. Thank you again. :)
@@Reddrik A video on Mikasa would be so much appreciated ngl. She's one of the most misinterpreted character and unfortunately, there aren't any good analysis video on her
@@shubhamsharma2923 I'd be very interested in undertaking that once the series concludes!
No spoilers but Armin and Zeke confirms this in the last chapter. The part about the inevitability of death and the reason your born stuff.
Oh sick lol
@@Reddrik You absolutely nailed it with Armin. Like word for word
@@bfedezl2018 Phew, I’m glad I wasn’t far off.
Your video is amazing and explains perfectly why Armin is my favorite character. There is a subtlety that isn't addressed and could be confusing though.
Yes, Armin is dreaming of the now, something that exists in the present right now. But he has been dreaming of it since his childhood so he was dreaming about the future as well and going outside the walls to experience this now. He also looked at the horizon but to better look down if that makes sense. He also dreamed of something better but never stopped looking at the ground and kept his capacity to cherish the now. You perfectly explained the difference between him and Eren afterward anyway. Thinking about the future isn't against freedom, it can help you to get a better freedom.
Quality video essay with somewhat serious bibliography with a positive message against nihilism? A new subscriber has arrived :)
Thanks so much! Welcome to the team. 🙏🏻
I applaud you for making such a great in-depth video and you took your time explaining your arguments. I especially loved all of the neuroscience and philosophy discussing the human condition as well as exploring the allegories towards Christianity in Attack on Titan. As a Catholic, I really appreciate that you were respectful when quoting scripture and using it in a well thought-out and meaningful manner. I really look forward to knowing your thoughts when you watch/finish the final season, especially on Armin’s role in the story.
Thank you so much! I come from a Catholic background as well. Per my sometimes explicit language, I’m sure you can tell I may not be the most straight and narrow Catholic, but Catholicism is largely the reason I became who I am. I’m really glad the video resonated with you. God bless!
It's rather sad to see a lot of people are overanalyzed Eren but not Armin. Armin is the damn answer on the Attack on Titan conflicts and I am glad you point it out.
Anyway thank you I sub you
Armin has been the proverbial key since day 1. Thank you a bunch, I really appreciate it. :)
This was really a very must underrated theme of AOT, many makes vedio on Eren's twisted idea of freedom but Armin and his view on freedom is not discussed anywhere
@@piyalidasgupta9500 Thank you! Armin is underrated lol
The lofi version of the rumbling at the end is crazy
It’s so good, isn’t it? It was lended by the extremely talented artist Skilifay, there’s a link to his channel and the song in the description.
Thank you very much, this video gives me a new perspective and A new found appreciation for Armin
Such a thoughtful and a wholesome video....Couldnt have thought of such a dimension ...
Thanks for this video...( Usually i dont comment but you made me do this thing)
You have no clue how much that means to me. Thank you so much!
The more I think about this video and the pieces of philosophy you left us with, the more I think I understand Eren and his final choice. We all have some resentment against the world and that is something that I so wanted to hide from myself when I first read the manga. Something happened this weekend, an unfair exchange that left me numb for a day or two.
And all I could think about was this video.
I thought I would leave another comment, just to let you know that your content is THAT good. Also, I hope that you don’t have a problem with youtube again, stay safe.
I’m glad that, in a time of conflict, this stuff came to you. I think it’s more important during conflict to recall ideas like this than any other time.
@@Reddrik Yeah, I wanted to thank you because at least I know I am not alone. I feel like a horrible human being when I think to myself that most of us deserves to just, disappear. Existence is so hard and paradoxical.
@@kassyyar97 Existence is a pretty sick joke, a paradox on celestial proportions. One would have to be willingly blind to not admit to this. However, like Attack on Titan illustrates for us, there is a way to live within this paradox in a genuinely whole, affirming, even joyous way. Recall, Andy Defresne was a free man behind bars. Armin was a free man behind walls. It takes some level of stepping back to see, like pointillism. But once one sees it, they can’t ever go back to living the way they were before.
:)
@@Reddrik you are right, enjoying the little trivial things is what makes it worth living. We cant go back from this mindset but to willingly choose to see the positives are what makes it worth it in the end. Thanks Red ✨
@@kassyyar97 Those little things are actually the biggest things, delivered in small packages. :) I’m glad to know my video resonated with you this much. Thank you for saying so.
Wish I could use my conciousness to connect with every single soul on the planet, letting them know their massiah has returned. But has no clue how to use his spiritual powers to help on a global scale. ☀️
Thank you for the hard work. I enjoyed every word, every cut, every quote
You just got a new sub my friend thank you for this, honestly had a weird Crisis watching season 4, this helped.
Season four is just one enormous crisis anyway. Glad to have helped, thank you!
@@Reddrik diddo
This is a gem. I hope you get the attention you deserve.
Thank you so much!
Crazy I went into your Jean is not a horse video thinking it was going to be full of memelord comedy....got a introspective on my life I didn't even think I hear today, lol been watching all of your videos all day....Sir, you need a team so you can make more videos...well done
I wish I could afford one! Alllllll me for now, baby.