Attack on Titan：Top 10 Most Shocking Deaths
【Attack on Titan】
With time, I gain a deeper understanding of Titan.
"Tonight, you will know
You will be reborn
It will surely be terrible
But I will be by your side"
Attack on Titan has been concluded for three years, and with time, I gain a deeper understanding of this manga—the character development, plot arrangement, and perhaps many more intentions that the creator, Hajime Isayama, wanted to convey.
Recently, Japanese media held a poll for the "Most Shocking Deaths in Attack on Titan." Let's take a look at the top 10! Some deaths are tragic, while others are truly unexpected...
The most shocking character deaths in Attack on Titan!
NO.10：Ymir
Ymir is a unique character; she is considered one of the main group and was initially hidden and shrouded in mystery. Her most notable trait is her relationship with Historia, through which we gradually come to understand her. From her transformation into a Titan to her later decision to return the Titan power to Reiner and the others, each event brought tremendous shock to fans. Isayama handled Ymir's death with great delicacy—her death is not only a personal tragedy but also symbolizes the themes of love and sacrifice. The letter she left for Historia makes this moment especially touching.
NO.9：Zeke Yeager
Zeke Yeager is a compelling character whose journey leaves a lasting impact on the story. As Eren's half-brother and the Beast Titan, Zeke plays a significant role in the series' major events. His complex motivations, driven by his twisted sense of duty and his own tragic past, make him a character full of depth and intrigue.
Zeke's death is one of the most shocking moments in "Attack on Titan." His intricate plans and manipulations culminate in a series of intense confrontations, revealing his deep, albeit distorted, desire to save the world. The culmination of his story is both unexpected and poignant, highlighting the overarching themes of the series, such as the burdens of heritage and the cost of freedom. His death leaves fans reeling, reflecting on the intricate tapestry of his character and the broader implications for the story.
NO.8：Keith Shadis
Keith Shadis is a notable character in Attack on Titan. As the instructor of the Training Corps, he trained many of the main characters. His strict and harsh teaching methods left a deep impression, but behind this facade, he harbors a profound sense of helplessness and disappointment in his inability to change the world.
At the same time, he represents the limits and perspectives of an ordinary person. His death is not only the end of his personal fate but also the ultimate expression of his roles as an instructor and former commander.
NO.7：Marco Bott
Marco Bott is a significant character in Attack on Titan. As a member of the 104th Training Corps, Marco is known for his kind and optimistic personality. He often acts as a mediator among his peers, showing a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
During the cleanup after the Battle of Trost District, Jean discovered his corpse, with half of his body missing—a gruesome sight. It was Marco's death that changed Jean's mindset, leading him to join the Survey Corps. His untimely demise highlights the harsh realities of the world they live in and serves as a catalyst for the development of several main characters. The circumstances of his death reveal the complexities and moral ambiguities of the conflict, leaving a lasting impression on both the characters within the story and the audience. His death underscores the themes of trust, betrayal, and the human cost of war, making it a pivotal moment in the narrative.
NO.6：Hannes
Hannes is a memorable character in "Attack on Titan." As a member of the Garrison Regiment, he is known for his friendly and somewhat carefree personality, which masks his underlying sense of duty and bravery.
Hannes plays a crucial role in the early part of the story, particularly during the fall of Shiganshina. He saves Eren and Mikasa from the Smiling Titan, although he regrets not being able to save Eren's mother. This event profoundly impacts his character, driving him to become more serious and determined in his duties.
Hannes' death is one of the most emotional and shocking moments in the series. During the Battle of Trost, he confronts the same Smiling Titan in an attempt to protect Eren and Mikasa once again. His bravery and self-sacrifice in this moment are poignant, highlighting his growth and deep sense of responsibility. His death underscores the harsh realities of their world and the recurring themes of loss and sacrifice, leaving a lasting impact on the main characters and the audience.
NO.5：Zeke Yeager
Dio Magath is an important and complex character in "Attack on Titan." As a leader of the Marleyan military, he is known for his steadfast beliefs and strategic wisdom. His loyalty to Marley and his concern for the warriors under his command earn him respect from both enemies and allies.
Magath plays a crucial role in the story, especially in later developments. His leadership and decisions have a significant impact on the course of the war. Although he initially harbors biases against Eldians, as the story progresses, he gradually comes to understand and respect the struggles and sacrifices of the Eldian people.
While some may have initially disliked him, he had his own principles, prioritizing the protection of Marley. His death is one of the brutal realities of war, winning him sympathy and respect from many fans. In a crucial battle, he chooses to sacrifice himself to protect others, buying them valuable time. His courageous actions and ultimate sacrifice highlight his sense of duty and selflessness as a leader, further deepening the cruel realities of war and the complexity of human nature.
NO.4：Erwin Smith
Erwin Smith's death left many feeling regretful. His outstanding leadership and strategic wisdom led the Scout Regiment to achieve breakthroughs time and time again. Although he appeared ruthless and cold-hearted in command, he was actually thinking for the greater good.
Erwin always yearned to uncover the secrets of the Titans. However, in the end, he chose to sacrifice himself. This decision not only showcased his heroism but also demonstrated his profound understanding of the conflict between personal dreams and collective interests.
NO.3：Hanji Zoe
Hanji Zoe is deeply loved by many fans and ranks high on many Titan lists. She does not have the same iron will and decisiveness as Erwin, but Isayama has given her a more fleshed-out character.
Hanji Zoe is one of the important characters in "Attack on Titan." She is a member of the Scout Regiment and leads the Scientific Corps. Hanji is known for her dedicated research on Titans and science, often exhibiting a quirky, curious, and uniquely humorous personality.
Hanji demonstrates extraordinary intelligence and courage in the story, playing a significant role in exploring the secrets of Titans and fighting against them. Her understanding of the complex relationship between humans and Titans has made her a respected leader and warrior.
Her character is unique, often showing a curiosity about the world and a thirst for knowledge, while also displaying compassion for both humans and Titans. Hanji's portrayal in the story has made her one of the most popular characters among fans.
Even her death, in the end, was for everyone, for the common goal. She remained true to her beliefs, even in the final moments.
NO.2：Sasha Blouse
In "Attack on Titan," Armin's favorite female character is Sasha. She may seem a bit silly and foolish, but when it comes to crucial moments, she is incredibly reliable. Her kindness and optimism bring a sense of warmth and humor to the story, easing the tension.
Her death is sudden and unexpected, without heroics or unnecessary embellishments. In the end, she simply wanted to eat meat, but in their limited world, meat is also very limited. This also shows the helplessness of Ymir's descendants and the cruelty of war.
Perhaps at this moment, Eren became more determined to completely eradicate the Titans and reclaim the land.
NO.1：Eren Yeager
"Call of Silence" is the theme song of Attack on Titan, and I believe its lyrics also resonate with Eren's life. From burning his own heart, determined to completely eradicate the Titans, to undergoing transformation and rebirth. He fights for his comrades, experiencing night after night of painful despair and disbelief in the harsh truths, no longer naive.
He can only continue to fight, even if Mikasa, whom he deeply loves, will marry someone else, even if he watches his mother die before his eyes, he cannot stop.
Continuing to fight, to end this nightmarish cycle.
