The summary of Attack on Titan is easy for anyone to understand | From characters to the ending

If you searched for “Shingeki no Kyojin Arasuji wa” and arrived at this article, you’re likely looking to understand the full scope of the story, the true intentions of its characters, and the meaning behind the ending.

Just like many others who wonder “What kind of story is Attack on Titan?”, this work is far more than a simple battle against giants. It’s a complex tale interwoven with intricate human relationships, historical background, and deep thematic elements. The protagonist Eren Yeager’s actions and motivations—essentially, the question “What did Eren want to do in Attack on Titan?”—are difficult to grasp but remain a vital and thought-provoking theme for readers.

Many are also curious about the characters’ choices and their significance, asking questions like “Who did Mikasa marry in Attack on Titan?” or “Who was ultimately the villain in Attack on Titan?”. Especially for those who felt that “The ending of Attack on Titan makes no sense,” interpreting the final scenes and resolving lingering plot threads are major concerns.

In addition, the character Ymir from Attack on Titan draws special attention as a key figure in the story. Her past and decisions form the backbone of the entire narrative, and understanding her role leads to a deeper comprehension of the work as a whole.

This article aims to clear up these questions and uncertainties by outlining the storyline and thoughtfully explaining the characters’ emotions and motivations. If you want to grasp the full picture of Attack on Titan, be sure to read until the end.

An explanation of what the Attack on Titan storyline is about

What is Attack on Titan about?

"Attack on Titan" is a dark fantasy series that portrays a world where humanity is threatened by mysterious beings known as Titans. The story is set in a city-state surrounded by massive walls, where people have lived in peace for generations without knowing what lies beyond. The narrative begins when a colossal Titan suddenly breaches the wall, leading to the death of many and the collapse of that peace.

What sets this work apart is its complex worldview that goes beyond the simple "humans vs. Titans" conflict. The protagonist, Eren Yeager, along with his friends Mikasa and Armin, confront profound philosophical themes such as "What does it mean to be human?" and "What is freedom?" as they battle the Titans. As the story progresses, shocking truths are revealed one after another, including the true nature of the Titans, the history hidden within the walls, and the actual structure of the world.

"Attack on Titan" is also known for its intricate foreshadowing and unpredictable plot developments. The story is constructed in such a way that the reader can only understand the world through the characters’ limited perspectives. This leads to a gradual shift in viewpoint as the full picture of the story is revealed, adding depth and engagement. Many characters act based on their own beliefs and backgrounds, often facing choices that cannot be simply judged as right or wrong, which is another major appeal of the series.

On the other hand, the second half of the story introduces more political and historical elements, which some readers may find difficult to follow. Those expecting a straightforward action or survival story may be surprised by the unexpectedly heavy and layered content. However, this very complexity is what makes the work truly unique.

In this way, "Attack on Titan" is more than just a battle manga—it’s a story with profound themes and thrilling developments. The deeper you read, the more you become immersed in its rich world, making it a true masterpiece.

What did Eren want to do in Attack on Titan?

What Eren Yeager aimed for throughout the story is one of the central themes of Attack on Titan. His actions evolve as the narrative progresses, but ultimately, it can be said that he chose to shoulder everything in order to protect the freedom of his comrades.

In the early stages of the story, Eren’s life goal is to “exterminate the Titans,” driven by the traumatic loss of his mother. His intense rage and determination greatly influence his companions. However, as the plot unfolds and Eren uncovers the truth about the Titans and the world, he comes to realize that humanity within the walls is isolated from the rest of the world and is regarded as an enemy.

Faced with this reality, Eren begins to grapple not just with hatred, but with fundamental questions such as “What is freedom?” and “Who am I?” Eventually, he makes the extreme decision to initiate the Rumbling, aiming to destroy the outside world and grant true freedom to his friends.

This choice, however, comes at the cost of countless lives. Eren himself cannot say with certainty that it is the right thing to do. Rather, he understands more than anyone the weight of his decision, yet he resolves to carry it out because he believes no one else can. In this way, Eren is portrayed as a character who can be seen both as a hero and a villain.

From this perspective, what Eren ultimately wanted was to carve out a future for his friends, even at the cost of his own life. It also meant bearing a strong will and profound loneliness.

His decision challenges readers to ask, “What is the right answer?” and serves as a powerful symbol of humanity’s desperate pursuit of freedom.

What is Ymir's true identity in Attack on Titan?

To put it simply, Ymir's true identity is "the girl who became the source of all Titan powers." She is one of the most significant figures in the entire story, and her appearance reveals many of the mysteries surrounding the world. Her past, which is explained toward the end of the story, is deeply tied to the origin of Titans and the foundation of the world, making it essential to understanding the narrative.

In the story, Ymir is portrayed as a girl who lived about 2,000 years ago and was enslaved by the Eldian Empire. One day, she accidentally came into contact with a mysterious power referred to as the "Devil of the Earth," which granted her the power of the Titans. This marked the birth of the "Founding Titan." Using this power, she was forced to contribute to warfare and infrastructure development. Even after her death, her soul was split into what became known as the "Nine Titans," and she continued to obey the royal family's commands for generations.

Despite holding immense power, Ymir was never truly free and acted solely under orders. This stems from her childhood experience of being utterly subservient to the king. Even after death, she existed within a metaphysical realm known as the "Paths," where she maintained and regenerated the Titans' power. In other words, without Ymir's will, the existence of Titan power itself would not have been possible.

However, Ymir's final decision to side with Eren was not out of mere obedience. Through Mikasa's expression of love, Ymir found a reason to change her own actions. Until that point, she had been bound by the king’s orders and lacked the freedom to express her own will, but Mikasa's decision helped Ymir rediscover the ability to choose for herself.

Thus, Ymir’s identity is not just about being the origin of the Titans, but also the story of a girl who longed for freedom. Understanding her character allows us to see the entire story in a much deeper light.

What is the true identity of Ymir in Attack on Titan?

Ymir’s true identity can be summarized in one phrase: “the girl who became the source of all Titan power.” She is one of the most important characters in the entire story, and her appearance unravels many of the mysteries within the narrative. Her past, revealed near the end of the story, is deeply connected to the origins of Titans and the structure of the world itself, making it essential to understanding the plot.

In the story, Ymir is depicted as a girl who lived about 2,000 years ago and was treated as a slave by the Eldian Empire. One day, by chance, she came into contact with a mysterious power known as the “Devil of the Earth,” granting her the ability to transform into a Titan. This event marked the birth of the “Founding Titan.” She was then forced to use her power for war, infrastructure, and other tasks. Even after her death, her soul was split into what became the “Nine Titans,” and for centuries she continued to follow the orders of the royal family.

Despite her immense power, Ymir was never truly free and lived only to obey commands. This was rooted in her childhood experience of being completely subservient to the king. Even after death, she existed in the realm called the “Paths,” constantly recreating Titans and maintaining their power. In other words, without her will, the Titans would not have existed at all.

However, Ymir’s final choice to follow Eren was not out of blind obedience. Through Mikasa’s expression of love—an act that defied simple loyalty—Ymir found the inspiration to change. She had been bound by the king’s orders for so long that she couldn’t act on her own will, but Mikasa’s decision awakened a feeling in her: the ability to choose for herself.

Thus, Ymir’s identity is not just about being the origin of the Titans—it is also the story of a girl who longed for freedom. Understanding her character brings greater depth to the entire narrative.

Who is ultimately to blame in Attack on Titan?

The question of "Who is ultimately to blame?" is one that Attack on Titan deliberately leaves unanswered. This is because the story is not a simple tale of good versus evil—it is shaped by complex perspectives and deeply rooted historical backgrounds. The narrative is structured in such a way that justice and evil can be reversed depending on the viewer’s point of view, prompting readers to evaluate each character’s actions for themselves.

For instance, Eren Yeager carried out the "Rumbling," sacrificing countless lives. Judging solely by his actions, one could say they were undoubtedly brutal. However, he made that choice in order to protect his friends and future generations. For him, it was a necessary sacrifice to ensure their survival, making it difficult to completely condemn his decision.

On the other hand, the nations of Marley and other global powers also labeled the people of Paradis Island as "devils" and launched preemptive strikes against them. Behind their aggression lies a long history of oppression and genocide under the ancient Eldian Empire. As the roles of victim and aggressor continue to shift throughout history, it becomes nearly impossible to single out any one individual or group as definitively evil.

It’s also important to note how the royal bloodline manipulated history. Specifically, the king who inherited the power of the Founding Titan made a vow of non-aggression and concealed the truth from his people, contributing to many of the ensuing tragedies. Additionally, Ymir Fritz, who continued to perpetuate the cycle of the Titans' power for over 2,000 years, further blurred the line of responsibility.

Thus, the final arc of Attack on Titan presents a world in which everyone is both a perpetrator and a victim. It cannot be reduced to one person being the "bad guy"—rather, it is a convergence of diverse perspectives and histories. This ambiguity serves as a powerful question posed to the reader.

In the end, the story is structured to challenge readers to consider "What is justice?" and "Who is truly to blame?" through the clashing beliefs and choices of its characters. The answer is not singular and will vary depending on the values and interpretations of each reader, which adds to the depth and complexity of the work.

I don't understand the ending of Attack on Titan.

It is not uncommon for readers to feel that the ending of Attack on Titan is difficult to understand. This is because the final developments are highly abstract and philosophical, leaving much to the imagination and interpretation of the audience. Additionally, the intricate web of battles and causality throughout the story adds to the complexity and can make comprehension more challenging.

One of the most confusing aspects for many is the contradiction between the protagonist Eren’s true intentions and his actions. He sought "freedom" and chose to become the enemy of the world by initiating a mass genocide, an extreme decision. However, underlying this was his desire to give his comrades true freedom. While he appeared to be choosing the path of villainy, in reality, he was providing his friends with the opportunity to end the power of the Titans. These conflicting motives often leave readers wondering what he really wanted to achieve.

The story's final chapters also feature numerous metaphorical and symbolic elements, such as Ymir’s will and Mikasa’s decision. For example, there is no clear explanation of why Ymir was freed through Mikasa’s actions, leaving that revelation entirely open to interpretation. Moreover, the recurring concept of "the Paths"—a metaphysical realm that transcends time and space—creates a narrative structure that defies straightforward, logical understanding.

While this storytelling approach has been praised as a "narrative with intentional ambiguity," many readers feel unsatisfied, believing not all foreshadowed elements were addressed.

In the closing scenes—such as Mikasa sitting in front of Eren’s grave holding his severed head or a bird adjusting her scarf—the symbolism remains vague. Some interpret this as Eren’s spirit watching over Mikasa, while others see it as a mere coincidence. The official narrative does not confirm either interpretation. As such symbolic layers accumulate, readers are left with a strong sense of ambiguity.

Therefore, feeling that the ending "makes no sense" is not due to a lack of comprehension but rather because the story was deliberately crafted with lingering ambiguity and room for analysis. Understanding it requires careful consideration of the characters' emotions and historical context, and sometimes even turning to others’ interpretations for perspective. This complexity is both the challenge and the allure of Attack on Titan.

Spoiler-Contained Summary of Attack on Titan

Who did Mikasa from Attack on Titan marry?

Among readers who have followed Attack on Titan through to its final chapter, the question of "Who did Mikasa end up marrying?" is often brought up. However, the truth is that there is no clear depiction within the story of Mikasa definitively marrying anyone. Her storyline primarily focuses on her farewell to Eren, and there is little elaboration on her relationships beyond that point.

Towards the end of the series, Mikasa kills Eren with her own hands and builds his grave beneath a tree. The story shows her visiting this grave multiple times. Years later, there's a scene where Mikasa returns to the grave with a man who appears to be her husband and a child, but the man's face and name are never revealed. This has led to the common interpretation that while she may have gotten married, the identity of her spouse remains unknown.

Some fans speculate that Jean may be her husband, given his evident affection for Mikasa throughout the series and his close proximity to her during the final arc. However, this remains within the realm of fan speculation. There is no official confirmation from the creators that Jean is indeed Mikasa’s husband, so it cannot be stated with certainty.

In this way, the question of who Mikasa married is intentionally left unanswered, open to each reader's interpretation. At the core of Mikasa’s character is her unwavering love for Eren, and the theme of marriage was never central to her narrative arc.

Therefore, the most accurate answer to the question "Who did Mikasa marry?" is that it is not clearly depicted in the story. Still, the ambiguity allows readers to imagine their own version of Mikasa’s future, which adds to the lingering emotional impact of the story.

Eren's Objective and Its Conclusion

Eren Yeager is portrayed throughout "Attack on Titan" as a deeply complex and contradictory character. It's difficult to summarize his ultimate goal in a single phrase, but broadly speaking, it can be interpreted as "ending the power of all Titans in order to protect the future of his comrades."

Eren’s actions change drastically in the latter half of the story. While he once fought for freedom outside the walls, he later takes the extreme path of initiating the Rumbling, destroying much of the world. This horrifying act instills fear across the globe, but it also paves the way for a future for those left on Paradis Island. In this way, Eren becomes a “villain” to create both the motivation and the opportunity for his friends to eliminate the Titans' power.

Toward the end of the story, Eren reveals that he felt he had no free will in his actions. Possessing the power to see future memories, he was trapped in a fate where his decisions seemed predetermined. The only moment he believed he could choose freely was when he wished for Mikasa not to forget him—a personal emotion that reflects his human vulnerability and inner conflict, separate from his role as a Titan.

In the end, Eren is killed by Mikasa. Through his death, all Titan powers vanish, and Ymir's curse is lifted. While this outcome frees humanity from the fear of Titans, it also marks Eren as "the enemy of mankind" in the annals of history. In other words, he sacrifices himself to secure a future for his friends, culminating in a profoundly self-sacrificial conclusion.

Thus, Eren's objective and fate defy a simple narrative of heroic victory or villainous downfall. His choices represent neither pure justice nor evil—they are his personal resolution. It is this very complexity that leaves such a powerful impression on readers and contributes to the enduring impact of "Attack on Titan."

The Battle Between Paradis Island and Marley

The battle between Paradis Island and Marley is a large-scale war that forms the core of the latter half of Attack on Titan. This conflict is not merely a military clash, but a struggle with a complex background rooted in historical resentment, racial prejudice, and the structure of domination and subjugation.

Paradis Island is home to the Eldians who live with the power of the Titans, and it is also the refuge of the remnants of the Eldian Empire that once ruled the continent. On the other hand, Marley is a modern-day superpower that exploits the power of Titans while continuing to control and discriminate against the Eldians. Deep-seated hatred and fear have persisted between the two sides for years, eventually erupting into war.

In the story, the conflict begins with Eren’s solo attack on Marley. From the perspective of Paradis Island, this was a preemptive strike; from Marley’s point of view, it was an act of terrorism. Thus, the war cannot be explained in simple terms of right or wrong—it is a case of both sides fighting for what they believe is justice.

Moreover, the people of Paradis Island had lived in isolation, cut off from information about the outside world. When they learned that the rest of the world viewed them with hatred, the shock was immense. Marley, for its part, viewed the inhabitants of Paradis as "devils," and this prejudice fueled its justification for war.

The greatest tragedy of this war is the loss of countless innocent civilians and soldiers. Many of those fighting were from the same ethnicity but forced to oppose one another due to differing national allegiances. Characters like Reiner and Pieck are Eldians, yet as warriors of Marley, they were compelled to fight against their kin from the island, embodying this contradiction.

Ultimately, the war led to Eren’s use of the "Rumbling," which brought the world to the brink of destruction. In this way, the conflict between Paradis Island and Marley is a reflection of humanity caught in a cycle of fear and hatred—one that could have been avoided had even a single factor been different.

The Meaning of Ymir's Feelings and Choices

Ymir Fritz is one of the most important figures in the history of Attack on Titan. She is the origin of all Titans, and her power was inherited by the Eldian people for over 2,000 years. However, her life was never one of freedom—she lived entirely as someone who followed the orders of others.

Ymir acquired the power of the Titans after coming into contact with a mysterious lifeform in the forest during her childhood. With this power, she was used as a tool by the king, forced to fight in wars, build infrastructure, and even bear children—all under command, without free will. She was treated as something to be kept alive only as long as she was useful and discarded once she wasn’t.

As her story was gradually revealed in the latter part of the series, many readers questioned why Ymir continued to obey the royal family’s commands for 2,000 years, without ever dying or resisting. The answer lies in her being trapped in a "mental cage." She had internalized the belief that she was worthless, shaped by a twisted sense of love and domination from the king. She suppressed her own emotions, believing her only value came from obedience.

What finally broke those chains was Mikasa’s choice. When Mikasa chose to kill Eren with her own hands, Ymir realized that love does not mean subservience. Until then, she had validated her existence only through submission to the king. But witnessing Mikasa’s strength to love and still choose separation awakened something within Ymir. For the first time, she acted on her own will. In that moment, she became free, and the power of the Titans fulfilled its final purpose.

In this light, the meaning behind Ymir’s feelings and her ultimate choice can be seen as a "reclamation of self-worth" and a "liberation from oppression." After 2,000 long years, she finally attained freedom as a human being. That freedom became the key to ending the Titan curse, symbolizing a central theme deeply woven into the entire narrative.

The Loop Theory and Final Interpretation

Regarding the final chapter of "Attack on Titan," one of the most discussed ideas among readers is the "loop theory." This theory suggests that the story unfolds based on a circular structure of time or an endlessly repeating cycle of cause and effect. Although it appears to be a grand fantasy tale at first glance, the latter part of the series increasingly emphasizes themes of "time," "memory," and "choice," with several scenes hinting at the possibility of a loop.

One such example is Eren's behavior after gaining the ability to see memories from the future. He acts in a way that blurs the boundaries between past, present, and future, and his decisions are depicted as though they had already been determined. This reveals that while Eren seeks freedom, he was actually moving along a predetermined path.

Another element reinforcing the loop theory is the structure that connects the first and final chapters of "Attack on Titan." In the opening scene of the first chapter, Eren says, "I had a long dream," which overlaps with developments in the final chapter and gives the impression that the entire story is about to begin anew. Additionally, the lone tree shown in the last scene resembles the place where Ymir first acquired the power of the Titans, implying that the story might be passed on to a new era.

However, there is no official statement confirming the existence of a loop. Therefore, this interpretation is left to the readers' imagination. The "unfinished ending" reflects the series' central theme of "freedom" and invites ongoing contemplation. A world where no matter how many times things repeat, an answer remains elusive—this is one of the story's most powerful aspects, leaving a lasting impression and room for endless discussion.

The Worldview and Foreshadowing in Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan is a work highly acclaimed for its unique worldview and masterful use of foreshadowing. It is not simply a battle manga about fighting giants; instead, it weaves together human history, politics, religion, and science, creating a deeply layered narrative.

At the center of its worldbuilding is the "world surrounded by walls." Early in the story, it is established that humanity can only survive within the walls, as the outside world is infested with Titans. However, as the story progresses, the true nature of the walls, the reasons they were built, and the reality of the Titans are gradually revealed. This transformation from a closed-off world to one increasingly shaped by outside truths effectively challenges the readers’ preconceptions.

The foreshadowing throughout the series is particularly notable. For example, the "basement" introduced in the first episode serves as a key mystery and maintains reader interest for a long time before its contents are finally revealed. Additionally, the dialogue and actions of characters often carry hidden meanings that are only fully understood in later developments, prompting revelations such as, "So that’s what that line meant."

Themes like religion, inherited memory, and political corruption further enhance the story’s realism. Notably, the idea that the power of the Titans is passed down through bloodlines ties into broader questions about power and destiny, adding significant depth to the narrative.

Thus, the worldview of Attack on Titan is more than just fantasy—it acts as a mirror reflecting societal structures and human nature. The intricate web of foreshadowing supports this structure, encouraging rereading and offering fresh insights with each revisit. It’s a remarkably well-crafted work, capable of yielding new interpretations time and again.

What was depicted in the summary of Attack on Titan: a complete overview

• The story begins with humanity surviving within walls surrounded by Titans
• The protagonist Eren begins his journey with a vow to eradicate the Titans
• The true nature of the Titans and the world is gradually revealed
• Themes extend beyond battles to include politics and ethnic conflict
• The question “What is freedom?” is explored throughout the series
• Bonds and sacrifices among comrades influence character development
• Eren’s actions can be seen as both heroic and genocidal
• Ymir is the origin of the Titans and a figure seeking freedom
• The power of the Titans is portrayed as a curse tied to bloodlines and fate
• Ultimately, the power of the Titans disappears, bringing the story to an end
• Mikasa chooses to part from Eren and moves forward into the future
• The war between Paradis Island and Marley reflects ethnic and historical clashes
• The final chapters include symbolic scenes open to reader interpretation
• The layered world-building and resolution of foreshadowing enhance the reading experience
• The “loop theory” and other elements leave space for endless post-read speculation