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yaboylevi · 3 years

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Did Levi basically have Eren right the first time he met him? Their first meeting he told Erwin that Eren was unhinged and could never be caged. He obviously changed his mind but in the end, he ended up being right and he immediately knew Eren better than anyone right off the bat

I honestly cannot tell if this was asked as bait, or if it is genuine, but I’ll answer as if this was a legit question.

I don’t remember Levi ever saying Eren is unhinged. And actually, no part of the story suggests that. (Just in case, could you tell me when Levi said that? Like, the number of the chapter you meant?)

However, sure, Levi did understand Eren right off the bat. Eren’s spirit, that is, Eren’s will cannot be caged. It is a fact that only Levi has acknowledged (and maybe Shadis).

In the visual novel Burning Bright, we can read this from Levi’s pov:

“Yet, that violence and any other form of pain will never break the boy’s [Eren] spirit.”

I once thought he meant that Eren’s soul, too, couldn’t be crushed, and that’s why, in chapter 105, Levi was so surprised and saddened by Eren’s eyes losing the brightness they always had. The eyes are the mirror of the soul, and all that.

However, Levi always knew very well that Eren’s soul could be damaged, and that’s one of the reasons why I believe he has always put enough care into uplifting Eren whenever he was going through some second-guessing, guilt, or painful, self-deprecating realizations. He knew how fragile one’s heart is, especially in situations where one has great powers and yet couldn’t protect loved ones - because it is way too familiar to what Levi often experiences.

“This had happened countless times. Making a choice, and having the results thrust at oneself. He looks at the boy he’s holding. He too had faced the results today. The raging, cold regret freezes in the heart, and it will never melt for this lifetime.”

So he nurtures Eren’s heart, offers him comfort, but without coddling him. He never lies to Eren about the truth of a situation, but at the same time he soften the blows.

He always understood whenever Eren needed help, a voice of reason or reassurance to bring him back up, and Levi gladly did that for him, every time.

Anyway, I thought maybe you meant the time Levi called Eren a monster...?

In the visual novel, we find out it is something that Levi was thinking even before saying it out loud to Petra and his squad. It’s something, as portrayed above, Levi realized during their first meeting in the underground prison.

“A monster since birth. Not because of the titan power, but because his soul itself is a monster. Nothing can be done to control this monster. Not violence, power, words. Nor danger, fear, peace. And, most likely – not even love.”

And yet, that desire to kill titans - a desire that Levi shared at the time - has Levi in awe. What he feels towards it is... “Not bad.”

In the visual novel, when Eren’s pain is channelled into desire to kill (titans), Levi thinks:

“The boy’s soul is refined into something purer. Into a monster with perfect, fearsome beauty.”

Levi is impressed. He doesn’t attach negative or positive qualities to it. Or maybe he does a bit, he attaches both of them, because it is fearsome, but it is also beautiful, and as such it is perfect, and there is no judgement, just awe.

Eren’s spirit cannot be changed, bound, or controlled. This is all that Levi meant with that “monster” comment.

It is something Levi, I feel, look up to, and respect. That is why he always left Eren a choice, always watched him and guided him without truly forcing his hand. When he did, in Return to Shiganshina arc, he failed. He probably thinks he should’ve known better.

In any case, what Levi thought of this realization about Eren’s character is as such:

“He still does not know what that truth will bring. No, he will probably never know. Yes, he doesn’t know anything. Even if he believes in his own strength. Or in the choices of trustworthy comrades. All he can do is accept the results. And after that, he can only move on.”

Because for Levi, Eren being a “monster” that won’t submit, a “monster” that might eventually grow to be farther away from people who reject his nature, is fine. He accepts it. Levi accepts Eren. Accepts the uncertainty it brings because he doesn’t think it is wrong, or even that Eren’s will, or spirit, must be contained.

And even though he was proven wrong when Eren held back for love, for trust, for the acceptance of his comrades right there in the forest, Levi wasn’t wrong in the grand scheme of things. Eren can’t submit and lay there, waiting for death to come. But it’s worth noting that this is also what experiences taught Eren. It isn’t all just him.

Levi hasn’t exactly changed his mind about Eren, I feel, in the way that you seem to mean. That first assessment is still there, has always been. But that opinion of Eren understandably got broader and gained depth, because Levi himself gained more perspective, got to know Eren better, deeper, to witness that Eren’s “self” isn’t as black and white as he thought. He also “caught feelings” in the sense that he grew fond of Eren quite fast, so he’s become biased toward him and has failed to see, actually see, that Eren had pushed himself over “the edge” mentioned in the novel: loss after loss, still moving forward, what is left in his heart is emptiness, and he’s become a monster that just won’t stop for anything and anyone.

But as the novel says, there used to be a light in Eren’s heart, underneath it all. It’s probably there, still. That hope, in the novel, was symbolized by the inseparable pair that is Levi-Freedom, and I thought Levi could’ve been the one to pierce through Eren’s walls first. But alas...

Levi has avoided the truth - a truth that he already knew once. He just couldn’t, emotionally, bring himself to acknowledge the monster that Eren has painted himself to be. And I feel it’s for the best, because Eren is so much more than just a monster. Levi knows.

So yes, you are technically right, Levi probably understands Eren better than anyone else currently facing him, on a basic level.

#ereri meta #snk #snk spoilers #ereri #burning bright #shingeki asks

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ghostnoms · 4 years

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For the ship ask: ereri, of course 😎

hehe i been waiting for this one >:)

1.) what made you ship it?

well, i definitely came into snk knowing of ereri and that it was a popular ship. when i first started watching i was like ??? why is this a ship?? but then... the little things, man. levi’s face after eren confesses in the dungeon. eren’s obvious hero worship. levi asking eren if he hated him. the budding trust as eren joins levi’s squad. then, just how the two of them seemed to understand each other so well. levi’s instinct to protect eren. the way they just seemed to fit together like puzzle pieces. by the time i finished the first season, i was in wayyyy too deep to get out lmao

also i started reading a lot of fics/watching cmvs and amvcs halfway through the anime and i said hold on.... this shit be hitting different. their dynamic will always be my favorite thing. a little grumpy sourpuss with a soft spot for the raging ball of hormones and anger? just fuck me up, dude.

2.) what are your favorite things about the ship?

OHH boy. so, so, SO many things. like i couldn’t even possibly write them all down. i’ll just do my best and try to keep it short hbdjsnc.

okay, so. the parallelisms. the way they just seem to be two sides of the same damn coin. isayama was really quite genius in his creation of these characters. i feel like he really knew what he was doing, making them so similar. the way their pasts coincide, their goals in the war (this is shown in the same episode! “i will eradicate all the titans,” levi says it at the beginning and eren says it at the end. to levi. beautiful, gorgeous, poetic cinema 😩) their core beliefs about freedom and choice, the way they view the world.... i could go on.

on the subject of their character, the first thing i fell in love with was how they SEEM so different, but in the end are so similar. while levi may seem like a jaded, apathetic older man, and eren a passionate, fiery new recruit, when you peel back the layers they both share some very core beliefs. they have an intense hatred for titans, are fiercely loyal, and have a deep love and desire for freedom.

they bring out the best in each other. i previously said they fit together like pieces of a puzzle, and this is one of the biggest reasons why. they are undeniable each other’s pillars of strength. levi is always there to provide eren with guidance, reason, and is a very grounding presence for the eren. when no one else seems able to reach eren, levi always manages to bring him back to reality, lend him strength and courage, and give him the tools necessary to fight his own battles. eren trusts levi so much for this specific reason, and leans on him in a very special way that i feel is very unique to their relationship. now, on to levi. eren is undeniably levi’s beacon of hope. for so many years levi has fought on in a seeminly hopeless situation, his eyes on the horizon and never looking back. but in comes eren, in a blaze of rage and passion, and levi finally feels something. hope. hope for freedom, for a life beyond the walls. he sees himself in eren. a boy who sees the world in black and white, with an unwavering determination and force of will, a “monster” (to quote the vn hehe) that can and will never be tamed. while eren possesses such a fiery will, though, levi sees the broken and confused boy underneath. he acknowledges this part of him that so few others see, and communicates with him. they learn from each other, levi learns through his relationship with eren how to better communicate, how to be a better friend, soldier, leader, and man. levi’s world, so long plunged in darkness, finally starts to change. a light begins to illuminate path forward. he sees where he’s going now, thanks to eren. and eren has a better understanding of the world, of himself, and of the relationships he has with his comrades, thanks to levi. he has someone to lean on. ok i have to force myself to stop on this point now but honey, i could go on for DAYS.

okay last one i promise. this one was just honestly my first impression of the ship, and i just loved it so much i had to include it. kind of an old take by now, but whatever. they’re literally the wings of freedom. levi is humanity’s strongest soldier, and eren is humanity’s hope. (again, two sides of the same coin bitch!!!!). when eren first sees levi, its in the haze of battle, the wings of freedom flowing on levi’s back as eren opens his eyes for the first time. when levi first “sees” eren, its in that cold, dark dungeon, his eyes blazing with a fire levi believed had so long been extinguished within himself. levi chooses to become eren’s guardian because of this, and eren accepts levi despite all his quirks and flaws, all because of the trust and understanding that is so integral to their relationship. i believe these two souls were destined to meet, and will continue finding and loving each other in any other future lives they lead.

3.) Is there an unpopular opinion you have on your ship?

this got mushy and long really fast so i’ll try to wrap it up quickly lol. honestly, i don’t think so? the fandom and ship is so old and has evolved so much over the years that i feel any “hot take” or unpopular opinion i may have is old news by now. uhh, i guess maybe i think levi would be more submissive? i feel like he’d crave that sensation of relinquishing control to that one special person that he KNOWs he would be in good hands with. which is eren lol. also, i feel like levi isn’t as old as people make him out to be. since his age in unconfirmed in the manga, i’ve never seen him as older than 30 when the anime starts out. i think he was around 20 in acwnr, so there isn’t a bigger than 10 year age difference between him and eren. idk i think thats it lol.

thank you so much for the ask! i had a lot of fun rambling on about my two favorite dorks lmao :) i appreciate it. sorry this is so long!

#thanks for the ask angel :)#much love for u #noms responds #ask game #scrangie #attack on titan #ereri #riren #rivaere #eren x levi #levi x eren #shingeki no kyojin #snk #aot #ereri meta #riren meta #long post #numbles

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temple--ghost · 4 years

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hi, I liked your meta. Do you think Levi will talk to Eren in future chapters? It seems the story is hinting at that?

Thank you so much for your ask! I love getting these.

If we want to have hope for a Levi+Eren interaction in the future, a few things need to be sussed out first. For one, Levi’s “character beat” (or, what drives Levi’s character within the plot) will need to turn away from Zeke and onto Eren.

Isayama has (much to my disliking) turned Levi’s character arc into one that revolves completely around Zeke. Although, as you saw in my meta, he DOES display thoughts and goals toward Eren, but these are secondary. Isayama will need to wrap up the “Zeke-centric” character beat before Levi can make Eren the priority.

I have a bit of hope that the “Zeke confrontation” will leave Levi unscarred, fulfilled, and ready to turn his attention elsewhere. I have a budding theory that, through Zeke, Levi is meant to learn to forgo grudges, but it stands on weak ground. We’ll see what happens when the confrontation comes.

Alright, so let’s pretend Zeke is out of the way and Levi is still alive. He’s ready to confront Eren with the rest. Does this mean they can talk?

Well... Maybe. Some factors to consider:

- Where is Eren physically?

- We can guarantee that there will be a Mikasa + Armin + Eren talk (together as three, or M and A alone with E). Most likely, Isayama will heighten the emotional drama by foregoing the inclusion of other characters in this scene -- focussing on only the three main protagonists.

So the question comes, how can Levi and Eren speak alone? I don’t believe it will happen. Likely, if *the group* is able to speak to Eren before Mikasa and Armin break away, there can be some words or emotions that can be said between them.

As there are so many damned moving pieces in the series at the moment, here is what I think will need to happen for the narrative to introduce the possibility of a Levi+Eren one-on-one exchange:

- Wrap up the “Zeke-centric” character arc of Levi

- Begin new character arc of “I don’t want to kill Eren,” or “He was supposed to be our hope,” or anything of similar nature for Levi.

- Introduce a flashback between Eren and Levi (Yams, *please*).

- On this same thought, introduce a flashback between Eren and Levi which establishes Levi as a bigger player in the character beat for Eren (I’ll go into theories and meta about this later).

I’ll conclude this hopelessness with some sappy words, though:

Levi has been one of the biggest influences on Eren, and I believe it was this quote (”But no one ever knows how it will turn out. So choose for yourself, whichever decision you will regret the least.”) that jumpstarted Eren’s character growth and future arc (including Eren’s character beat now).

On top of that, we’ve had it established multiple times that Levi views Eren as not only his responsibility, but as the *one thing* Levi has had hope in (following Erwin’s death; prior to Erwin’s death, I would argue that Levi had hope in only Erwin and Eren).

Eren and Levi are the ONLY ones that have the *exact same* drive, passion, and goals. They’re two sides of the same coin -- Levi as a contained force for this cause, and Eren as wild as fire.

I’m not the author of SNK, but wouldn’t it feel nice if we had this important connection acknowledged between the two of them?

Don’t get your hopes up, but let’s cross our fingers.

#snk meta #ereri meta #LEVI ACKERMAN #eren jaeger #Ereri

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shamelesslypoetic · 2 years

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On Translation and Dubbing: an Attack On Titan manifesto by a freshman languages major and a passionate, auditory person with zero credentials

Inspired by my third rewatch in anticipation of the new season, and my growing curiosity concerning the differences between the sub and dub versions. This post isn't for people who assume dubs are all trash compared to subs, but a good-faith analysis. You can prefer the sub, and still stick around to read.

Naturally, as an absolute sucker, I start with something Levi/Eren focused, but if anyone wishes to read more of my ramblings, I will share my thoughts on other aspects; such as Yuki Kaji's phenomenal emotional range, a comparison between his role and Bryce Papenbrook (I consider Eren his best work) the infamous roar vs screech when Eren is a titan, etc

This hypothesis examines Captain Levi across a few episodes, and specifically a handful of my favorite rivaereri moments in late season 1.

One base rule I have learned at university so far is that a good translation isn't a literal one, but one that takes the intended meaning and completely rewrites the text while retaining the original meaning from the source language (SL) as much as possible within the linguistic, social and cultural, confines of the target language (TL). Grammar especially can make this task tricky in many instances, as you can sometimes find in sub translations that sentences may feel clunky or awkwardly worded. There is so much to consider when examining both a sub and a dub's job. A dub places more importance on its task because it needs to retain fluidity in the spoken language as opposed to simply delivering the meaning. It restates, and makes emotion more pronounced, which it must.

So without further ado, here are a few from the endless list.

Episode 18

Okay so I'm sure we're all familiar with the moment that happens just before Levi puts his back to Eren and protects him from his squad, when they were doing the experiments and Eren couldn't transform.

As Levi approaches the well before Hanji does, the dub says "Eren! Enough! We're done for today!" while the sub version is "the experiments are on hold."

Let's break it down.

At face value a simple command such as "enough, we're done for today" doesn't look all that different from "the experiment is on hold" except it does and the tone says so much. First he calls Eren's name. When he does, it feels like he is reaching out for him. Secondly, "enough", it's such a small word, six letters, and yet it feels so important. When I first watched the sub version, I couldn't believe it was only "the experiment is on hold". The fact that the dub cast and crew went out of their way to make Levi sound concerned instead of just stating an impersonal fact. It shows how he cares more clearly. I know it's a small difference and many people who only enjoy the sub ship ereri, but for me it stood out. He says "enough," because he knows on instinct this would weigh on Eren, and he doesn't want him to unnecessarily exert himself and hurt, because he knows Eren is the type to keep going till he collapses, he just knows. Even in the early days, he understood him really well. Then, you end with the beautiful "we're done for today" because it's like something inside him won't stand to have Eren keep going. Sub Levi's words being "The experiment is on hold" was like we'll keep going, so what if he's tired, if we can fix it we'll go on, it's worth the risk. Dub Levi is almost irrefutably "that is enough. You will now rest because you are a kid first and foremost, not a weapon to be used at my disposal and I will not treat you like one". He wants Eren to rest. The whole remainder of the day. Sub Levi didn't even specify.

The dub makes it all the more impactful when we see the confused shock on his face as his eyes fall on the blood and Eren's torn up hands and that look in Eren’s eyes, who is not wincing in pain, but looking up at them disappointed in himself. Levi must think, god fucking damn can you believe this boy?

Maybe I'm reading too much into it. I welcome any refute to this by the way; I love hearing other people's thoughts.

Closely followed by the first instance, the next scene shows Levi asking whether the bite marks on Eren's hands have healed (personal headcanon, but could it be that his grumpy attitude was not only bred from anxiety about the mission but also anxiety for Eren's health and well being? Isn't the fact that he asked him about his healing first rather than anything else indicative? Don't we sometimes lash out in anger when worried? Just a thought.)

When Eren says no, Levi ends their conversation in two ways.

Sub: "This is an order. Do something about it."

Dub: "Pull it together. And yes, that is an order."

The "order" part in the second half feels like an afterthought, merely an incentive for Eren to get better.

Then, while he is standing between his squad and Eren, "My instincts tell me so" vs the dub's urgent, earnest, overlapping "a gut feeling". (Emotional translation: I trust him, ya fucks, that's why, now get away from my boyfriend.)

"How do you feel?" vs the dub's "So are you feeling okay or what?"

Let us take a look at a slightly earlier scene when they were talking about how to restrain Eren if he goes rogue before they went ahead with the well experiment.

Sub Levi, about Eren's limbs: "They'll grow back like a lizard, right? Disgusting." You can find actual repulsion in the words. The dub is more mellow: "Matter of fact they'll probably grow back lizard style. Creepy little bastard." It's amused, it's light, it's like a term of endearment. Like he accepts what Eren is and thinks it's something to poke fun at, not something to be revolted by. "Style" even implies a quirky flair.

Honestly the little gestures to make Eren feel more accepted are so sweet, especially coming from a bitter old man. Levi knows no one else would offer Eren this sort of acceptance. They are too scared. And the fact that Levi understood Eren so well after such a short time together speaks volumes. Many believe a good relationship is built on acceptance and comfort and understanding. I feel like Levi offers all that. That they both understand and accept and relate to each other in many ways, but that would make up an essay on its own.

Another moment from the same episode. "I doubt they felt nothing when they drew their blades on you" vs the dub's "Whatever that might have looked like out there today, I can promise you that every single one of them was conflicted."

The first one feels more impersonal only saying what needs to be said and trusting Eren to gather the rest for himself, and that is a really valid interpretation but the second one, oh my goodness. When does Levi ever promise someone something if it's not a life and death situation? When is he ever gentle? With Eren. Only with Eren. He's so earnest. There's almost a vulnerability. He didn't need to say I promise, but he chose to. He wants Eren to feel safe and assured. He wants to be someone Eren can trust without fear. He wants to give him this one thing because he knows Eren is going through so much. The weight those two little words hold "I promise". Levi does not make promises lightly. Seriously, has Levi ever promised anything when it was not when someone was dying, or someone's dying wish?

Yeah, exactly. When it comes to Eren.

Generally dub Levi's voice is more expressive, and I didn't notice before now, but as an auditory learner (and I know this is nerdy bear with me) who never read the whole manga (I should) and wants to see as many instances of her ship as possible, it really did have an impact. Even when it's just Levi with no reference to Eren. Levi is already so poker-faced and guarded, he hardly shows any emotion. Which does not mean he does not feel, but that he chooses to hide what goes on in his brain. The fact that his voice would show some of that emotion is a relief.

I can't believe sub elitists go "it doesn't sound like Levi". What sounds like Levi, I ask? A cold, robotic deadbeat? Because that's not what he is. Some of us are slow on the uptake and need to hear the clarification rather than being told or trying to analyze for ourselves, and some of us see more in him than the bloody fidget spinner.

I know I'm being a bit presumptuous but bear with me. The dub gives him nuance. Like I said, Levi is already outwardly emotionless enough, we need this bit of insight. I know others prefer the sub, which is valid, and it follows from his general personality that he would guard his tone, but I don't think it would be that easy. We can police our expressions, our posture, our general attitude. We can try to level our voices and words, but eventually they will warp into what we're really feeling and betray us. Even if the words don't.

Episode 18

Sub: "Eren! Hurry! Decide!"

Dub: "Eren, come on, make up your damn mind!"

The second one, just from the words, feels a lot more urgent and personal, doesn't it?

Now I don't mean that sub Levi/the Japanese VA is bad. That would be a blatant, ignorant lie. I think it is all up to interpretation of the voice actor on how to characterize Levi and I think they both do a good job.

I don't know Japanese so maybe I'm entirely off my mark, but I feel like even the text we get in sub is probably not entirely accurate. Especially with languages like Japanese where specific words can hold so much extra context and nuance just by how they're spoken, that even just writing it as subtitles probably removes a lot of that to make it make sense in English. A problem known as lack of equivalence at word level clearly states that languages do not describe universal concepts.

Each language comes with its own history and set of experiences. Everyone's experience of the world is different. Language describes life as experienced from different perspectives by different people. Not all languages contain a word-for-word correspondence. One word may be translated into two or more words or even a sentence in one language, and one word has many meanings in both languages.

Aka, shortfalls in the sub are less anything to do with the VA (for japanese speakers he is probably phenomenal), and more just the nature of sub translations making it kind of stiff. Which is why I think restating the words is worth the effort, even if it sacrifices some of the original meaning. The feelings and connotations delivered will change from language to language. So, simply to make the reader truly appreciate what is being said in a way they can understand and more importantly feel written in their native tongue, not as something morphed into their native tongue. It is a worthy interpretation. An artwork in its own right. Pardon my translator ass this is literally my major and language holds so much; emotion and meaning and intent and the words we choose and how we choose to phrase them really make a difference.

Sub Levi perhaps stays truer to the character. Additionally, I'm viewing through a very narrow lens since I haven't watched many of the sub episodes. But his tone rarely changes. And for Levi we really need nuance, we need inflection and tone and we need specific phrases. He is hard to understand. This reframing and voice work make him easier to grasp. I want to emphasize again that I love both versions. I could ramble on about this forever. I could also say a lot about Yuki Kaji, Eren's VA, who is a fucking masterpiece all on his own. The emotional range, guys. Top notch.

But this is about Levi and the ereri gold mine. So let's get back on track.

Episode 19:

Sub Levi: "Here we are, after everything we said at the trial. If we go back empty-handed, who knows what'll happen to Eren and us?"

Dub Levi: "That whole song and dance in the courtroom and this is what we've got to show for it. We scurry back now with our tail between our legs, Eren's right back in chains or worse."

This is probably me being very nitpicky, but notice how the emphasis is on Eren. The first one was everything they "said" at the trial, which is more generalized. I would assume "song and dance" refers specifically to Levi beating Eren up since it is an idiom that, in other words, means an exaggerated theatricality. Or at least that is what I gathered when I first heard it. And again at the end of the sentence he calls attention to what will happen to Eren, like he is actually worried about him, and mentions nothing of anyone else. There is no "us", his focus seems to be directed solely towards Eren.

I gathered two things from this quote. One, Levi is still torn up about what he had to do to Eren at the trial, even if he won't show it to Eren himself. With that, antis can choke on their abusive Levi theory. Two, he is worried about Eren's fate. He doesn't want him to get trapped, or hurt. There is a specificness that is not there in the sub "right back in chains" vs "what will happen". It's a minor rephrase, but I personally think it is worth noting that Levi feels disdain for how Eren was treated. Moreover, the sub could be just interpreted as what will happen to the weapon of Eren and whether the scouts will they still have custody of him. The dub leaves no room for that as it puts all the focus on Eren and what punishment he may receive.

Episode 21:

Sub: "This voice. Don't tell me..." and Dub: "That roaring. This isn't good."

Okay I think I like the sub better here actually. Because of the usage of the more humanized "voice", immediately knowing it's Eren, they both implied that, but the second half of the sub accentuates Levi's denial of the terrible occurrence he doesn't want to believe has taken place.

Another instance in episode 21:

In the sub, Levi asked Mikasa if Eren died, specifically asked. In the dub, he said it was unlikely that Eren survived. The former is more optimistic, and has more faith that Eren is alive, as if he wants to believe it. The dub version implies he has already resigned himself to the worst.

We also have episode 22:

"He's alive. Filthy though." vs the dub's "He's alright. Disgusting, but alright." Notice how the emphasis and what Levi ends with is reaffirming Eren's well being, almost as if he is trying to reassure himself after thinking the boy was certainly dead.

Oh also, this isn't official but, we are all familiar with Matthew Mercer's (Levi English VA) "confession" to Eren, right? That's a treasure and a half on its own.

To conclude I would just like to inform you that the word "enough" is what kick-started this absolute spiral. Ironic, isn't it?

Anyway, as an English speaker this is the only perspective I can offer. If Japanese speakers refute everything I've said, I wouldn't be able to lift a finger in argument except to talk about the language I know.

In the end, it's all a matter of subjective taste and everyone is valid, but I hope I may have inspired you to reconsider the aot/snk dub if only the tiniest bit :)

I hope you enjoyed this essay. Let me know what you thought, and thank you so, so much for reading!

#attack on titan #shingeki no kyojin #translation #sub vs dub #snk analysis #snk meta #ereri #riren #comparison #snk text analysis

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tsukiy0 · 3 years

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Why did the cut out this scene from today’s episode??

This scene was so ... beautiful? and meaningful?? It literally show how Levi doesn’t see Eren as a monster like everyone else and how he doesn’t want to give up to him! It shows how Levi still can see Eren’s pure soul regardless what other people are telling him .. it’s not a shipping scene at all .. it’s a scene that makes Levi’s character more human and complex ... He still can see purity even in the middle of a gruesome and cruel setting.

“This world is cruel but also so beautiful” ... isn’t this quote one of the leitmotiv of the story? And this scene represents this quote so well. He doesn’t remember Eren as Titan, as a “monster”, like other people do. He doesn’t remember Eren as tool either. He doesn’t even remember him as those eyes that fascinated him in the basement. No ... He remembers the first time he saw Eren .. so young and lost in a cruel world. And still so pure.

This scene was important for Levi’s character, for Eren’s character, for the story itself! Being able to see something pure in a cruel and evil world ... because this world is cruel but also so beautiful ... because even after losing many things and people, we still can have hope ...

how beautiful can it be?

How important it can be for a story that used to tell us to FIGHT AND HOPE?

What’s the point to delete every scene that shows Levi’s feelings for Eren? Why do they want to delete one of the most complex relationship of the story? Do they want to tell us that everyone is giving up to Eren? Even Levi? Even if the manga told us a totally different thing? Do not they realize how this choice makes the story itself cheaper?

I’m really disappointed ...

#ereri #riren #snk #snk meta #levi ackerman #eren jaeger #Shingeki No Kyojin #aot #snkkt #snk anime

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0aurelion-sol0 · 3 years

Text

The fandom after reading SNK 137 :

EMA feels ;_;

MORE HALLUCIGENIA!!!

Aruani been living, Rivamika been rising

Zeke fans been crying and proud

Levi fans been in shock and disbelief

Jeagearists/titanfolk been burning their SNK volumes

GOT SEASON 8 HATERS AND SNK COMPARAISONS.

People disliking or feeling weird about Levi and Zeke

Eremika doesn't know what to think

SNK HATERS BEEN HATING

Bertolt, Ymir and Porco fans be demanding justice.

Yumihisu and Historia fans don't care anymore

ERURI fans been crying

Eren haters singing Hallelujah

Erehisu fans wants the confirmation

Armin fans been having stars in their eyes

Mikasa fans been disappointed

Reiner fans been SCARED

Reviewers been shook

Theorists and Meta writers don't know what to do anymore

Me:

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ryuichirou · 3 years

Note

Hi Ryu, have you read 139? I feel like both you and Katsu are the only person who could satisfy me with the answer lol. Eren talk with his friends before Mikasa beheaded him, right? In all seriousness, what do you think he say in front of Levi? A man whose comrade has been wiped out in the effort of guard/stop him. I'm genuinely curious about this. Also, HOORAY FOR ERURI AS ERWIN IS THE LAST TO VANISH FROM THE SMOKE YEAY sobs

I feel so empty now that SnK end, it has been such an amazing journey...

Anonymous said:

I really wonder what Eren and Levi talked about or did when Eren brought him to paths ughhhhhh

Anonymous said:

The ending was missing something.. I think the real reason why Isayama didn't include any Eren and Levi interactions in the chapters leading up to the finale was because it would hinder the canon couple. He KNOWS any Eren and Levi interaction will overshadow every other event in the manga so he didn't flesh out their story and just left it alone. Wish there was a scene of Eren and Levi acknowledging how much they learned from one another and value one another but sigh...

Anonymous said:

Hello! I just wanted to ask you if you belive Eren sent memories to Levi aswell as the rest of 104? And what do you think Eren said to Levi?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PEOPLE 👏 ASK 👏 REAL 👏 QUESTIONS 👏 HERE 👏

They definitely talked to each other! Katsu assumes that it happened when Levi was sleeping (while Hange was feeding everyone with hot stew); imagine finally talking to Eren just to wake up with everyone around you yelling and fighting… And I thought that they also might have talked when the gang was in the Paths, trying to chase child!Eren. Levi was sitting there on his butt being very chill, not rushing anywhere, maybe he had his own conversation going on at that moment. But Paths inside the Paths? Now that I think about it, Katsu’s theory feels more logical. We also think that Levi knew about all that for a little bit longer than the rest of the team, hence his calmness.

(Wait, how did Eren alter Levi’s memories to make him forget about the convo until the very end… isn’t he an Ackerman. Wait, what if Eren just went “sorry Captain I can’t make you forget about this, please act like you don’t know anything okie dokie”?... I need to stop thinking)

But anyways, they 100% talked to each other. Eren talked with everybody. And I really liked it, it was like one of the things that made me legit happy when I read the chapter. It wouldn’t make sense for him to skip Levi: the only one he hasn’t talked to is Pieck and I guess this is what you get for saying stuff like “I guess I’m the only one who isn’t a total Eren simp out here”. Still, very rude of Eren. Sorry, I got distracted lol

Frankly, I think the third Anon is absolutely right and Isayama was afraid that if he gives this world even a teeny tiny little bit of Eren’s and Levi’s conversation, this world wouldn’t be able to handle all the amazing chemistry and the sexual tension these two have, and Ereri would be the only thing on everyone’s minds forever…… ❤️❤️❤️ legendary ship

Ok, but if we’re being serious, besides the obvious talk about Eren’s plan and all the stuff that’s been going on with his head (I think he talked about it with everyone to some extent), I think they definitely talked about being able to make a choice you’d regret the least. Like the Anon said, they’ve learned a lot from each other, and this was one of the main things Levi taught Eren. It influenced him greatly, so it’s very likely that Eren expressed his gratitude to Levi for that conversation they had years ago (and all the support he’s received from Levi during his difficult teen years too). They both were probably sad that the best choice was for Eren to die, none of them would want that, esp Levi. I’m pretty sure he feels extremely sorry for Eren and would love him to live a long life with his friends. Levi also probably thinks that it’d have been better if he could die instead of Eren (he’s older and his comrades are dead).

I’m also sure that Eren apologized to Levi, especially for his people dying. Buuut we also really want Levi to say that he’s sorry too… because knowing Levi, I feel like he really is sorry for everything that happened and that Eren had to do the things he had to do.

I wonder if they had a walk down memory lane like Eren and Armin had. If they did have it, maybe they sat at the exact table they had a conversation about Levi’s squad dying four years ago. You know, when Levi tried to cheer Eren up and joked about Erwin being constipated…

Sigh, it would’ve been so cool to know for a fact what they’ve talked about… with others, too: we kind of know what Eren told Connie, and I think we can vaguely imagine his conversation with Reiner. But Jean and especially Annie… it’s very intriguing. It would’ve been so cool if Isayama dropped at least a couple of words in an interview or anything like that.

Oh, and was Erwin really the last one to vanish?? It’s cute… Levi tearing up was so adorable.

#replies #snk meta #ereri

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kakooshi · 7 years

Note

Ereri/riren ;)

OH MY GOD ILYSM RIGHT NOW ASDFGHJKL….*TURNS INTO A TITAN*

AHEM…ANYWAY….

Whoo boi, prepare for a long one…

• When or if I started shipping it:

I was searching for some Youtube videos shortly after watching the first few episodes of Snk, as I usually do when I show interest in a series. Eventually, I stumbled upon that fateful video of Levi beating Eren up in court. Being the nosy person that I was, I scrolled through the comments and was a little surprised to find out that people shipped them because I wasn’t aware at the time that Levi was saving Eren from getting his ass killed. Then, I saw that scene where they were sitting at the table in ep 24 and I was still skeptical because damn, Levi sounded older than he looked. But then, I saw this thumbnail:

Look at that. LOOK AT THAT. IS THAT BEAUTIFUL OR WHAT!!??? The desire in Eren’s eyes…the tenderness in which he cups Levi’s face…That picture got to me. It got to me so hard all my doubts faded away, and at that moment, I was screwed. Before I knew it, I finished the first season of the anime, read fanfics and metas, gawked at the number of official art they were in together, ignored the antis, and you know the rest :)

• My thoughts:

It scares me a bit how strongly I feel about Ereri. I don’t think another ship will ever ignite such tremendous joy in me more than these two. I’ve gained more ships during the years, but none of them repeated the same excitement I felt for the two imperfectly beautiful monsters that stole my heart. For me, Ereri is the kind of romance you wouldn’t see coming, the kind that starts out with uncertainty and rough edges but eventually falls into something natural and beautiful as it grows. And yes, I ship it in canon. No amount of hate is ever gonna derive me of that.

• What makes me happy about them:

I’m happy that there are a lot of quality content in art and fanfics in the fandom despite Eren and Levi’s limited interaction in canon (AUs are the best). I’m also happy that the shippers are willing to protect and stand up for each other amidst the spamming and the hating and whatnot. I’m at least glad that the ship isn’t based on fear and abuse because of the way Levi looks after Eren (please read the manga), and how Eren still respects Levi even after knowing who he really is as a person and not as Humanity’s Strongest. I mean come on, what kind of “abuser” gives his “victim” pep talks and half-assed poop jokes just to make him feel better?

• What makes me sad about them:

I’m sad that Ereri is hated as much as it is loved and that most fans overlook their actual and more meaningful dynamic because of works that portray their relationship poorly and how they think the ship only revolves around sex or bdsm or whatever. I’m also sad to see that there’s not much going on in the Ereri tag other than reposted art and more crosstagging from the antis (shoutout to @dinklebert and @aurieackerman for bringing life to the tag though). The thing that upsets me most is how other ships are pitted against Ereri in such a hateful fashion.

• Things done in art/fic that annoys me:

Gee…I usually suck up to anything but let’s see:

- Erwin (or any other character) being used as a plot device for a love triangle

- “Shitty brat” (or Levi being more of an asshole than he usually is in the series smh)

- Eren being written as a fragile shrinking violet like seriously, the kid is NOT a shoujo moe character. He’s a serial killer-in-training. (credits to @accidentalyandere )

- Grisha’s A+ parenting

- Eren and Levi instantly doing the do without any development whatsoever.

• Things I look for in art/fic:

CANONVERSE! CANONVERSE! CANONVERSE! THERE IS NEVER ENOUGH CANONVERSE ERERI IN MY LIFE. Can’t I just get these two badasses fighting side by side, drinking tea, dashing through the woods with their 3dmg, riding on horses into the sunset, sparring incessantly to the point where a crowd gathers to watch their incredible skills, treating each other’s injuries, having loads of desperate, loving sex, Levi doting on Eren, Eren doting on Levi…just…canonverse gives me life okay? Also a sucker for slow build….

• Who I’d be comfortable with them ending up with, if not each other:

For Eren, I’d be happy with him being with either Armin, Jean, Mikasa, or Historia. He deserves an ocean full of love regardless of who he ends up with. For Levi, I’d want him to be with Hange, because they’ve been through so much together and they’re the only one Levi has (Well, if we’re talking veterans here)

• My happily ever after for them:

As sad as it makes me to say it won’t happen, I just want them to settle down in this nice, little cottage and live a happy, domestic life together hunting for game and looking after orphans. Or maybe stand on top of Wall Maria as they look over the world like in the Lion King or some shit. That would be good too.

• What is their favorite non-sexual activity?

I’d like to imagine Levi and Eren challenging each other over practically anything on a regular basis, like who makes the best tea, or who cleans the quickest, or who handles the 3dmg like a beast (Levi would no doubt roll his eyes at this). Oh, and cuddling. Cuddling is good.

This took a while, but I had fun. Thank you, and keep shipping :))))

#snk #ereri #rivaere #eren jaeger #eren yeager #eren jäger #eren yaeger #levi #levi ackerman #eren x levi #attack on titan #shingeki no kyojin #ereri meta #sort of #ask #reply #attackonstalking #thank you babe #ship meme

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lady-bluebird-luv · 4 years

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The way the predominant depiction of ereri has changed over time really interests me. I remember when the most popular dynamic that I saw in fanart and fic was dominant, often suave Levi with a very sweet and feisty, but submissive, Eren. Now, their relationship is much more frequently depicted as either Eren being dominant or the two of them being pretty egalitarian in terms of switching/sexual dominance.

It definitely has a lot to do with Eren canonically becoming older and more autonomous. Because Eren’s young in early snk, and Levi is a powerful authority figure in Eren’s life, dom!Levi (especially in sugar daddy/BDSM dom/protector senses) with sub!Eren was popular given where canon was at. Which sometimes had uncomfortable dimensions, so take that popularity as you will. It’s not that Eren was always treated like he was Levi’s inferior in these dynamics, but there was usually a maturity and leadership gap. As Eren became an adult and began to act more independently of Levi (and the Survey Corps in general), more and more fics definitely depict the two of them as true equals, and Eren’s feistiness/stubbornness has evolved from him being a brat to often being more dominant than Levi.

#ereri #riren #levi ackerman #eren jeager #eren jaeger #eren jäger #eren yeager #snk meta #snk #aot #bluebird's snk meta #bluebird's brain nuggets

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makiema · 5 years

Text

Continued from here

2. I think Levi’s face in Chapter 105 wasn’t expressive of his being tired of Eren rather, it was the face of disappointment, sadness and even, betrayal. Levi has always associated Eren with hope like I said before, Eren gave purpose to his strength. He saw Eren as a determined kid whose “fire”, i.e. his unwavering spirit needs to be nurtured and protected at all costs. After four years, we can say that he had build a certain amount of trust in Eren, something that he couldn’t let go of even in the moment of judgement as is evident from Chapter 112. Levi would rather wage war against Marley than give up on Eren.

Coming back to 105, his pained face directly parallels Mikasa’s

and I think that’s enough canon evidence right there, to show his immense agony. He’s hurt, really hurt, just as much as Mikasa is, whose whole life and light has been Eren. Now I know a lot of antis think Levi kicking Eren again in this chapter was another act of blatant sadism but, thing is his face says otherwise. He didn’t enjoy the act and it wasn’t meant to show his dominance or anything; he’s disappointed, he feels betrayed, and that’s why he kicked him. The stress lines coupled with his over all expression clearly shows how grieved he is

This is just my opinion but I think there’s another motive behind Levi’s kicking Eren. The way he uses the words: “ this brings me back” is suggestive of Levi making a reference to the past, a nostalgic one at that. I think, this can be interpreted as Levi’s failed attempt at trying to make Eren recall his older self, the older Eren who Levi believed in so much and whose spirit Levi always admired.

But, Eren’s eyes look lifeless now and he even throws shade at Levi by mocking his ability to understand letters. I think this moment marks the beginning of Eren distancing himself from everyone he held dear. Levi had just said that he wanted to have a talk with him after he’s restrained however, Eren coldly rejects his attempt at conversation by a cutting remark. The same thing would happen later with Hange, Armin and Mikasa, where Eren would deliberately hurt them with his words so that they give up on him. But now, without further digression, let’s come to the context of Levi’s expressions. He’s aggravated by Eren’s snide remark and appalled by his obvious disinterestedness in talking with him. Eren looks so devoid of any feeling and his idc attitude breaks Levi to the point where he feels absolutely betrayed and he goes on to compare Eren with people in the underground who were rotten, obviously devoid of any sign of life or empathy. The pain of disillusionment, the feeling of betrayal is clear in his words “I cannot believe this”.

Yeah so, I don’t think he was tired or anything and more than Eren making a mess I think what really hurt him was that how radically Eren had changed. He isn’t the Eren Levi knew; the Eren that revered Levi and looked up to him for advice, the Eren whose eyes used to be full of life. The Eren of now likes to be left on his own, remains unbothered, and is indeed the monster, that in Levi’s own words, “cannot be controlled even by love.” (VN/Burning Bright in the Forests of the Night)

3. The answer to whether Eren really still cares for Levi is obviously going to be a biased YES. I’ll try to attach as many canon evidences as I can but most of it is just speculation.

• Continuing from the second answer, right after Levi expressed his utter disbelief, we see an intriguing look in Eren’s eyes.

Just a moment before, his eyes were lifeless but, now, he looks up at Levi and suddenly, it seems like he understands something?? or maybe he’s surprised that Levi actually cares so much ?? or maybe he realises that Levi had more trust in him than he could imagine?? even i don’t know for sure why that particular expression but let’s just say Levi’s words had some effect on him and assumably a positive one; something that strikes a chord somewhere deep inside him. I mean, let’s face it, unless we really care about someone, there’s no way what they say will affect us to the point where it’s almost as if his eyes returned to life (and when I say we, I’m talking about a 19 y/o adult who has to bear the burden of the whole world on his shoulders alone and who has only 4 years left of his life that justifies his the lifelessness in his eyes)

• The next possible proof that Eren cares about Levi is here in the end panel of Chapter 117.

I know that the fandom has arrived at a variety of conclusions explaining Eren’s expression, and initially, I was more for the idea that it is a look of relief at seeing Zeke. But now, after the happenings of Chapter 121, (like Eren’s snarky attitude towards Zeke and his betrayal) I’m more for the theory that Eren’s expression in 117 is one of concern. He doesn’t care much about Zeke; he had only used him to achieve his ultimate goal, or what he calls “the scenery”. Anyway coming back to 117, Eren was aware that Levi was watching over Zeke. So the fact that Zeke had broken free and made it to where Eren is, instead of it being the other way round, must have worried him. Hence, the expression. • The final and the most relevant canon proof that Eren still cares about Levi is in Chapter 122, where Eren Jaeger will become God the most powerful being in the whole Universe. Eren’s powerful speech that’ll ultimately make Ymir open her eyes and bring about a whole transformation in her draw heavily from what Levi had said to him previously in the Female Titan Arc.

Those moving words are, in parts, derived from his mentor so now, can we really say that Eren doesn’t care about Levi? Of course, the bit about Ymir being free and that she is just a human being is inspired from Eren’s own philosophy of life and freedom but the bit in his speech about choices, the freedom of making a choice, and the importance of making a decision by yourself and owning up to it- I think, that is taken from Levi’s advice. To support this claim, let me also refer to the memory panel in Chapter 120. Eren’s best memory of Levi is that exact moment when Levi had said those words to him, words that had influenced him to such an extent that he used the same to comfort Armin (like I said before) and now, to comfort Ymir. When we repeat someone’s words to us, it is a given that that person is in the back of our minds. So, it is pretty evident that Eren still thinks about Levi otherwise, what can explain this connection to Levi when it comes to consoling or validating someone?

Also, in previous chapters, Eren has been shown to repeat quotes from people who had left a huge impact on him like his own child self as in here:

Carla’s:

and then, Kruger’s:

So now that Eren throws light again on Levi’s advice, I think it’s suggestive of how important Levi’s role is in his life. And that the fact that the speech inspired from Levi would become the key for Eren to achieve the Founder’s power, is like a tribute to Levi’s encouragement and his overall faith in Eren that went a long way in making Eren the confident, responsible man he is presently.

I hope this answers all your queries anon. I’m really, really sorry that it became so long. Forgive me for using your ask to rant endlessly and no, you’re the cute one. <333

#ereri #snk #snk meta #snk analysis #levieren #levi ackerman #eren yeager #eren jaeger #asks #anon

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yaboylevi · 3 years

Note

Hello!!!

I love your theories about Ereri, greetings from Mexico.🇲🇽✨

I'm doing this through the translator, haha. I apologize.

What I wanted to ask you is: If Eren and Levi were given the opportunity to talk, what would that conversation be like? What would they talk about?

Hi!! It makes me so happy that you wrote to me even with the language barrier! Thank you!!

I received a similar question the day before, here. I was still reeling from bitterness, so I didn’t even want to think about it.

But now I’ve calmed down, analyzed Levi’s scenes a bit more and the Japanese text also helped. Overall, I feel like I have understood something new about Levi and it has helped with feeling a bit less disappointed in Levi’s “character arc”, though I still have a thousand complaints about how it was written. So I’m a bit more...not exactly positive, because I am still annoyed at Isayama’s choices and I think this is it with regards to E&L, but I gotta admit that the angst is delicious, and it partially validated my reading of Eren and Levi’s relationship as one that is defined by their talks. Which I have spent a million words on:

On Eren & Levi’s Relationship during the TimeSkip (predictions, mostly)

On their Talks in the Past

On the Lack of a Talk

On How A Couple of Talks Were Foreshadowed (but I knew I was gonna get disappointed)

Etc, etc.

So, as for what they would talk about I had some ideas. For a while now. But if it’s only Levi who wants to tell “countless things” to Eren...well. I AM SO SURPRISED?!

I guess he would want to apologize for not treating Eren properly, for not noticing, for not understanding, because I sense a great deal of regret.

He would want to ask Eren for an explanation, for sure, because there is hurt and confusion in Levi.

Maybe yell at him, tell him how disappointed he is, how he can still come back to them for real, because he cared and still does and doesn’t really want to kill him.

Aaand who knows what else... I repeat, my askbox is open to suggestions about this topic!

#ereri meta #snk 136 #snk spoilers #shingeki asks #ereri #anonymous

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ackerists · 4 years

Text

the difference between AM and Levi when it comes to Eren’s feelings

before i actually got to this conclusion i had to talk about it with an actual good friend of mine via Instagram. we shared points of view that are pretty interesting and i wanted to share them here.

we all know levi always had a special care for eren, even though armin and mikasa are his closest friends, specially mikasa, due to his family connection to her since the very first day. we all know AM care for him a lot, but ive been noticing the lack of concern for eren recently, which i don’t really enjoy.

i had thought levi was completely messed up by isayama since he showed total indifference towards eren’s well-being in the most recent chapter, BUT that’s where i was wrong, at least i think my way of seeing levi’s character in the newest chapter came out wrong. i got annoyed by the fact that levi always asked or even glanced at eren when he noticed the brunette was sad or uncomfortable (since the very first time they met)

and in chapter 123, levi didn’t even say a word to eren. this might be because of the tough and rough phase eren’s going through (the war, family loss, betrayal, etc...) and levi simply thinks he has to leave him alone for now, to talk and rant to his family, armin and mikasa. the problem here, is that AM don’t really want to address eren about his feelings or sorrows, but yes, project their OWN feelings and thoughts of him to cheer eren up. in my opinion, what they are doing pisses the hell out of me, eren is suffering and he wants everyone happy, but seeing the lack of intervention from his closest friends on the shit that eren’s overthinking is quite disturbing.

it’s like they don’t want to admit that eren grew up and started to have a more complex mentality, they want to keep the old eren’s image stuck on their minds because they know, or just fear that if they accept eren’s new personality and ambitions, their love could decrease. it’s like they want to ignore eren’s new and deep desires and project their own wishes on him, and this? coming from the AM, leaves me speechless.

they never pondered about the monstrous side of eren, except for levi and probably hisu, but we’re not talking about her right now since she wasn’t mentioned on the last chapter. anyway, levi knows about eren’s wild personality and the tameless monster he holds inside, not just because of his attack titan shifting ability, no, but the determination he holds inside those eyes, and the flame that lit hope inside levi himself.

he saw eren’s opposite self right in the very start when looking inside his ocean orbs. he said it, right in the start that “no matter how much he’s held back, no matter the cage he’s in... no one can force him to submit.” he was COMPLETELY aware of eren’s lust for freedom and he never dared to deny or ignore it.

“Captain Levi understands Eren Jaeger very well.”

eren always wanted freedom, and it didn’t go unnoticed by levi in the dungeon scenerio (so, right when they first interected) that’s why, i can’t help but feel a little sad and disappointed at AM for their childish act of not wanting to accept eren is finally sacrificing whatever he needs to get what he most wanted, freedom.

the choices levi gives eren, he lets him take his own choice, based on his own wants and desires. he entices him to take what he wants, to take his freedom, and that my guys, is why levi is daddy.

thank you for listening to my ted talk.

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temple--ghost · 4 years

Text

SNK Chapter 133 - Levi on Eren’s Eventual Death

An analysis of Levi’s emotional state in SNK’s recent chapter.

___________________________________ Boring Disclaimer: I’m Ereri trash. However, in terms of Isayama’s intention for the series and these characters, I believe Isayama has sought to depict their relationship as one completely without romantic or sexual undertones.

However, there are enough "blank spaces" and "building blocks" in his work that a reader can conceptualize and read given scenarios in many ways. In aspects of film and media theory, characters and narratives are often treated as if they aren't just blots of ink hitting paper, but as a hypothetical reality in which to judge character morals and meaning. When we intake any piece of fictional media, the ideal is an engagement with the characters and the story. We can consider the author’s intent, while also acknowledging multiple, theoretical “realities” of this created world as it is portrayed to us using media-driven language.

That said: I cannot argue that there is a romantic undertone between these characters; instead, I believe there is a significant relationship here that is vague enough to be twisted by interpretation.

___________________________________

Introduction

This is where we begin:

Hanji has been left behind to die. Eren’s rumbling has slaughtered thousands. Countries and cultures have been left to ruin.

And, our group of protagonists are unsure how to stop Eren.

We have two crucial suggestions from Armin: try to talk with Eren and, as a last resort, kill Eren.

Coming off of Armin’s mention of this “last resort,” Levi says:

We know there are a multitude of reasons for Levi’s death-wish against Zeke,

So, in trying to understand his motivation here, I can see Levi’s words being read in two ways:

1. Going after Zeke in place of Eren may prove a simpler solution, while also fulfilling Levi’s desire to kill Zeke. Furthermore, if both Mikasa and Armin are hesitant in killing Eren, logically, Zeke could be the substitute. Levi’s suggestion is made out of intelligent convenience. His main priority with this suggestion is Zeke.

2. Replying directly to this “last resort,” Levi offers up an alternative TO this last resort. “I’m fine with us having a last resort BUT...” and he offers Zeke’s death in the place of Eren’s. Simply put: he, personally, does not want Eren to die.

My following argument and theory correlates to what is stated in #2:

Based on the way in which Levi is portrayed in chapter 133, it is clear he remains emotionally invested in Eren’s life.

And, notably, this is not the first time Levi has offered this solution...

Substitution

Chapter 112: the Jaegerists are uprising. Eren has now not only forced the Survey Corps into action by attacking Marley on his own, but has also begun an uprising within Paradis himself. Soldiers find Levi and relay the information; Levi is told of the plan to kill Eren.

His reaction...?

To offer up Zeke.

He goes on to admit:

“I don’t know if Eren’s really being controlled by Zeke or not. But we just need to end Zeke and they’re done for.”

There’s an obvious parallel to chapter 133, in which:

- Levi seems aware that Eren’s actions are likely his own. Eren is likely guilty in being a provocateur of destruction and yet...

- Levi acknowledges that Eren’s life is threatened. He offers Zeke to save Eren from death.

(For the sake of length, I’ve omitted a few panels. Eventually, I intend to address this entire moment in a future meta post, wherein I want to discuss if Levi’s desire to protect Eren stems from a personal attachment, or if his only concern is the concept of the “wasted” lives that have died for Eren’s sake).

Let’s return to chapter 133.

Eren’s Answer

Levi’s suggestion to kill Zeke with the help of the others prompts a discussion point from Reiner.

“Eren might want us to stop him, no?”

A scene change occurs soon after; our protagonists are transported to PATHS. Levi is the only character to realize:

In this moment, Levi acknowledges the possibility that Eren may have been listening and reacting to the idea that he (Eren) wants to have someone kill him. Levi is putting the pieces together -- Eren has heard them and this will be his response.

Our characters call out to Eren. Levi is the last to speak.

Somehow, in this moment, there’s still a sense of humor in Levi’s dialogue.

Despite Eren causing the deaths of thousands... despite the loss of Hanji, Levi’s comrades, and of the hope Eren was supposed bring... Levi’s greatest “threat” is to “let [Eren] off with an ass-kicking.”

Through the lens of the odd and physical nature of Eren and Levi’s relationship, the threat is sentimental, almost.

His final callout (”Why don’t you speak up for a change?”) brings to mind a fantastic meta done by @yaboylevi, in which they explore Eren’s process of verbally retreating from Levi and the others. As well as how, in multiple instances, Levi tries -- and seemingly fails -- to speak to and understand Eren, but Eren would not let him in.

Directly following Levi’s words, Eren appears -- seen first by Levi -- and Eren’s monologue begins.

This is it. Eren has heard and is responding directly to our protagnoists’ question. And it is here that Eren not only confirms but takes it a step further by threatening further destruction unless he is destroyed.

And it is only after this moment, after Eren has given them no other choice but to kill him, does Levi's knees hit the sand

The monologue continues. We see a close-up of Levi's face, while all of the others are in the background or not made purposely distinctive -- his is the face that sticks out.

Let’s talk about scene framing or, in a more common term used by those in media criticism: mise-en-scene.

Per Dictionary.com, we can define this term as:

The arrangement of scenery and stage properties; the setting of surroundings of an event or action.

In visual media, story-boarders and artists use the placement of characters to communicate messages to an audience. Mise-en-scene is often one of the first and most important concepts taught to those within the industry. Why? Because how these characters are placed within a frame manipulates an audience; there are, across all aspects of visual media, certain “tricks” a director or artist may use in order to convey a message through the visual representation of a scene.

If you wish to understand this aspect further, I highly suggest this article. But, let’s move on and apply this concept to Levi within this chapter.

I would argue that it’s significant that, within all the ‘PATHS panels,’ he is not only portrayed on the left-hand side, but also at a lower elevation than the rest of the characters. Characters portrayed at a lower elevation often intend to display ‘weakness, defeat, insecurity.’ The left side of the scene is also reserved for this indication. I’ll quote filepicker.io for this:

“Left: weaker side of the frame, reserved for villains, powerless or insignificant characters”

I want to bring up this page:

Where the others stand together in (what I see as) the same level of awe and shock, Levi’s differing in his placement and emotions is made purposely distinct.

With Levi in the foreground, he is made completely separate from the homogeny of the rest of the group. The reader's eyes go to him on the ‘weaker’ side of the frame. While all others stand and look at the same point, he is the only one sitting and staring downward, listening and in thought.

He feels weak. Defeated. Powerless. I read the downward tilt of his head and the slump of his body as conveying a deep and thoughtful sorrow.

The audience is told not only in Levi’s expression, but in the author’s entire use of framing, that what Eren has communicated in PATHS has a very significant effect on him and we, as an audience, are meant to see this.

Levi’s Response

Immediately after this page, we return to the plane.

Note Levi, whom remains in the similar crestfallen state as before -- still, obviously, in the same state of emotions and thoughts he was in just prior.

One panel later he states:

He is back on the other side. He has been told, by Eren himself, that Eren’s death is the only option.

He has been given a straight-forward answer. He has obviously ruminated on this. He must now have an inkling of doubt that killing Zeke will stop Eren. He must understand the further depth of terror that will happen should Eren not be stopped. He must understand the loss of lives lost in Eren’s wake.

And yet, his emotions remain tethered to Eren. Despite his original promise in chapter 19.

At this point, after all that has taken place between them, between then and now...

Once again…

“...Now what?”

He does not consider the option of killing Eren.

#snk meta #aot meta #ereri #snk chapter 133 #LEVI ACKERMAN #snk spoilers #aot spoilers #133 spoilers

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kyojuuros · 6 years

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Levi’s role in Eren’s development and why “Eren vs. Levi” won’t happen

I mentioned recently my opposition to the idea that Eren would hurt or even kill Levi in order to further pursue his goal - whatever exactly it may be. Furthermore, I am not personally foreseeing an “Eren vs. Levi” showdown approaching. I feel like I should elaborate on that.

Eren and Levi have always had a compelling relationship, in my opinion. Where other people have either feared or blindly adored Eren, Levi has always seen him for what he is and accepted him. Likewise, Eren has almost always looked to Levi for guidance and inspiration, but was quick to understand Levi is as fallible and human as anyone else. I'm gong to cover some points as I try to explain myself here.

Isayama has stated before that Eren may have to march in Levi's shadow in order for the story to progress in a certain way.

I think that we are clearly seeing the result of that now. Where Eren used to convulse and shake when he was angry (and in general, very expressive and impulsive), something Isayama stated Levi once did too, we have now come to see an Eren who pushes what he's feeling down in order to focus on his goal. This is very similar to Levi's demeanor and something we only see from them as they are now when they've become deeply emotionally compromised.

It's not that Eren has become cold, detached and unfeeling toward his peers. Rather, he's come to learn that he cannot let his emotions and feelings about them dictate his behavior if he is going to save them. He must control himself if he is to get anything done. Since Levi goes about things in a similar manner, he's in one of the best positions to understand Eren as he is now. Thus, I believe that he is one of the more likely people to get through to Eren at this time.

Additionally, it’s good to remember that Levi told his squad plain as day that he was willing to "become a mass murderer” if it meant humanity at large would have a chance at surviving. Eren is doing the same for his friends and the island now. He has picked up on the things Levi has said and done and has started to absorb it into his own actions. Again, if anyone will understand this point of view, it will be Levi.

I think that, if we are to take this sort of parallel between them and assume that Eren has adopted more of Levi’s approach toward achieving his goals, at the very worst Eren would do something minor to get Levi out of the way (as Levi tried to do to him during the serumbowl) - but nothing that would put permanently harm him.

Levi's views on Eren per their Visual Novel

In Eren and Levi’s shared visual novel, Burning Bright in the Forests of the Night, it's stated very clear that Levi understands well the essence of Eren's character.

Humanity’s Strongest understands Eren Jaeger very well. Eren Jaeger is indeed feared as a monster. Eren Jaeger is undoubtedly a monster. But all these people have gotten it wrong from the start. Eren Jaeger is not a monster because he has the power to shift into a titan.

When Levi states that Eren is a monster in the Forest of Giant trees, he’s implying that it’s Eren’s nature that is to be feared, not his shifter ability. This is something that Levi has seen since their very first formal encounter. Eren as he is in the current timeline is showing this nature for all the world to see now. But Levi was the one who saw it first, completely unadulterated nor filtered through personal affection.

Nothing can be done to control this monster. Not violence, power, words. Nor danger, fear, peace. And, most likely – not even love.

And again, this is something that we are seeing now. Eren’s will keeps pushing him forward, no matter what. When he’s determined and has his mind set on something, nothing can stop him from trying to pursue it. Eren has expressed the love he holds for the 104th (and hopefully by extension, Levi and Hange, who have also been through a great deal with him). However, no matter how much he cares about them, he’s come to be a person who keeps moving forward with or without them - possibly to the point where he may even be willing to push them away. Levi gets it.

Eren Jaeger’s essence can never be changed.

As early as the Female Titan arc, Levi understood that Eren was someone who can’t be tamed or caged. And no matter how many times the story has tried to beat him down, he keeps moving forward. He keeps fighting.

The novel ends with an excerpt from the poem “The Tyger,” although that requires a long winded essay I don’t want to clog up this post with. But in essence, it’s about a man looking onto the beast in awe of it’s beauty, but understanding its raw, primal power. The inclusion of this poem tells the reader that Levi is looking at Eren in this way. Regardless, Levi has been using his position and his role in Eren’s life to try and guide him down the best possible path, even if he’s not sure he always does a good job of it. But it’s enough to show that he cares about what Eren does with his power.

Levi's role as a mentor/”big brother” to Eren

Levi was recently described as a character who is like a big brother to the 104th. And as we have seen throughout the story, he has guided and mentored them. Most notably we have seen this through his interactions with EMA. In the case of Eren, we have seen Levi repeatedly offer him advice, understanding and concern:

Chapters 25 & 26 - When Eren accidentally transformed and his squad turned their blades on him, Levi was quick to step in between them, stating that his intuition is guiding him to believe Eren is not a threat. This is the first show of understanding we see from Levi when it comes to Eren’s intentions and what he wants to do. Eren isn’t a traitor. He wants to help the Survey Corps and Levi sees and understands that. This was very profound at the time, given no one was willing to trust in Eren other than his friends since childhood. It was especially jarring, given that Levi had vowed to take Eren down if he did anything wrong.

When everything is sad and done, Levi checks in on Eren to see how he’s feeling.

Chapter 26 - After Eren’s accidental transformation, Levi offers Eren words of advice, explains why his squad turned their blades to him, and also is sure to make Eren understand that they did not enjoy doing it. That they want to have faith in Eren. He’s been real and honest with Eren since the very beginning, but he’s always managed to do so in a way that helps Eren to understand and is never overly harsh toward him.

Chapter 25 - Levi’s iconic “no regrets” speech. When Eren is discouraged from acting on his own accord in favor of trusting in his comrades, Levi gives Eren words of advice on the spot. He encourages Eren to make his own decision - to trust his intuition, and make the choice he will regret the least. Eren even believed in retrospect that if he had transformed, Levi may have fought alongside him. This scene is always a good one to come back to when looking at their overall relationship and Eren’s development as an individual.

When Eren chose to put himself in the hands of others, they ended up dead. But later, when Eren is faced with other tough decisions, believing in himself is what saved them. When it comes to the current events of the manga, I think that this mentality is holding up strongly with Eren. He must believe in himself and his own strength if he is to accomplish anything. Levi, having given him this advice, is in a position to understand his line of thinking.

Chapter 32 - After Squad Levi is killed by the Female Titan, Eren blames himself for it completely. He believes that putting his faith in them is the wrong choice and what led to their deaths. Levi watches Eren as he laments his decision, he really soaks in the fact that Eren is carrying that burden, and chooses to reassure him that it wasn’t his fault. He had no way to know that things would turn out that way, and he shouldn’t put the burden on himself over it. Levi is extending to him kind understanding in the wake of loss and trying to alleviate the burden.

Chapter 53 - Eren and Levi are motivated by similar goals. Eren seeks freedom and Levi validates this by stating that he wants the same thing. The walls stink, they are suffocating. They live in a cage like livestock. Similar ideologies. Levi fights for his people and it’s something Eren wants to do as well. This is a way in which they can relate to each other. Even in the current timeline of the manga, they both want what’s best for their people.

Chapter 66 - Eren is under pressure, and Levi knows he’s about to add onto it. He apologizes for it. It’s a scene that shows Levi doesn’t want to keep putting the burden of pressure on Eren. That he verbally expressed as much is, in my view, a big deal for both the readers, and Eren.

Chapter 70 - When Eren is overexerting himself, Levi is the first one to notice and offer him a hand. As Levi is helping Eren out and showing him compassion, he also notes his concern about the toll it’s taking on his body and advising Hange to take it easy. Despite this, Eren insists that they keep making weapons with his power so they can get to Shiganshina. Here I’m sure Levi can also see that Eren is willing to push himself past his limits. It’s another reason for him to try and look out for Eren.

Chapter 89 - After the events of the serumbowl, Levi isn’t seen holding anything above Eren’s head. In fact, when he can see Eren is visibly distressed, he tells Hange to lay off of him and let it rest. Something Eren really needed at the time.

Unrelated to the pane above, he heard Eren out during the serumbowl, and he also reminded him not to regret his choices. He isn’t seen holding Eren’s choices against him, once again showing us that he has an understanding that Eren is only doing what he thinks are the best decisions he can make.

Overall, with the exception of the altercation during the serumbowl, Levi has always been on Eren’s side. I doubt that Eren has let this all go completely unnoticed. I think it would be foolish to assume Eren would be willing to toss aside someone who has been so supportive and patient with him in a world that's primarily viewed him as a tool, a symbol, or a monster. Whatever Zeke has offered him, he doesn't have the history with Eren that Levi has, nor do they have years of trust building between them.

Which brings me to the reason I pointed out the term “big brother.” Levi and Zeke have already been compared via their roles as leaders of their respective groups. They are a contrast to each other:

Levi is a survivalist who looks out for the well being of his peers and subordinates first. He is generally a defensive fighter, only attacking when provoked or threatened. Zeke, from what we have seen so far, is an offensive fighter. He is the one who picks fights, schemes and launches the attacks.

Similarly, their differences can apply to their relationships with Eren and how they each approach him individually as well. We can say with certainty, based on everything above, that Levi cares about Eren as a person, but can we say the same for Zeke? The only hint we have on how he feels about Eren is the time he said that Eren was brainwashed and that he would save him.

We still have yet to learn about the Yeager brothers' relationship as it is now. Are they in it together? Do they care about one another? Are they using each other? Deceiving each other? It's a big question mark but I believe the real answer to it will decide the way that Eren and Levi both ultimately sway in the end.

Levi has been “like a big brother” to Eren, whereas there is a chance his real big brother may only be treating him as a tool.

Of course, we also must call to question Levi's faith in Eren and whether he still trusts him or not. It's clear he doesn't trust Zeke, but is he willing to reluctantly move forward with a plan if Eren truly believes it to be the best one? Levi has expressed an open mind when it comes to the secret plan. Is this because he still has faith in Eren going with the best plan possible to try and save everyone? I think he’s erring on the side of caution for now. Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. Still, I can’t imagine he would take action against Eren unless provoked. Eren would have to be the aggressor here.

They need to talk about things. And Levi is always ready to talk to Eren when something is up and he has questions. For example, when Eren revealed the truth about Historia and how he didn’t want to say anything in order to protect her. Levi wanted to hear him out but left it for a later time.

One thing we haven’t gotten over the time skip is Levi’s perspective. While Eren continues to talk about fighting the enemy, rejecting the sacrifice of Historia and refusing to rely on the rumbling, Armin and Hange have talked about reaching out, diplomacy, paving a pathway of peace. Levi has expressed neither agreement nor disdain for any of these things. Rather, he has remained as a quieter, almost background character in recent chapters. I’ve talked before about how I think it’s possible he is privy to what the Yeager brothers have up their sleeves. If Zeke’s goals are truly good, then he has no reason to oppose Eren. If Zeke’s intentions are bad and Eren is falling for it, again, I see Levi as one of the few people who would be able to reach out and get through to him due to their similar mindsets and shared history.

Only if Eren and Zeke both have bad intentions do I think Levi would step up and oppose Eren. And although this is just my personal view, I still have faith that Eren is doing what he believes to be the best choice to save the people he cares about. But we still have yet to see if he’s started to walk a much darker path than we’ve been presented thus far.

Levi's reaction to Eren in Liberio

The kick was harsh, yes, but it is the exchange that they shared that is so very telling:

Levi is genuinely hurt. He doesn't like seeing Eren this way. He compares him to the pitiful people in the underground and laments, “You, too.” It’s another person that Levi has grown to care about who is simply “becoming a slave to something” and discarding parts of himself in order to accomplish his goal. Eren used to have so much fire and passion in his eyes and the blaze has started to burn out, replaced by something colder. Levi can tell there is something different about Eren now and it pains him.

Eren notices this.

Levi then expresses his distaste for the current situation toward Zeke, asking him if everything went the way he wanted it to. Zeke got what he wanted, and now Eren looks lifeless. Thanks, bud.

This leads me to my next point.

Levi seems to be exhibiting defensiveness about Eren

We haven’t had many interactions between Zeke and Levi just yet. However, all the banter aside, this panel gave us a huge clue that after Zeke mentions wanting to meet Eren, Levi’s glare seems to worsen, as Zeke makes note of it. While Levi can agree with Zeke that they don’t have all the time in the world, it also seems as though he’s not happy about Zeke pressing the issue of meeting up with Eren.

Levi has been asking Zeke the same things over and over while they’ve been waiting in the forest, trying to figure out the kind of person Zeke really is and whether he is being honest or not. Naturally, of course, he cares about the island as a whole, which is a huge contributing factor to this behavior. But I might be bold to suggest that he’s also trying to figure out what his next move is going to be regarding Eren and whether he’ll be able to protect him from Zeke if he’s truly a liar. This is, of course, just speculation on my part at this point.

The Forest and potential parallelism

The three of these characters are most likely going to reunite in the Forest of Giant Trees, where Eren once had to make a hard choice - the choice that he made that allowed his comrades to be killed.

Once again, a choice is probably going to have to be made here. Either Levi will try to persuade Eren to step back from Zeke, or Eren will have to convince Levi to work with them. While theoretically this could lead to a “fight,” I think at worst it would be a verbal altercation. Remember where they are. Levi and Zeke are in the forest specifically because titans have the disadvantage against the 3DMG here.

A few final points

Just as we don’t have Levi’s perspective, we’re kind of in the dark about Eren as of the current timeline as well. We still don’t know why he went to Marley or what he and Zeke discussed there. There’s also the chekov’s gun about him potentially being controlled by Zeke rather than acting of his own accord (Although I personally... am not a fan of this, but it’s possible and the story introduced the concept). This is the only thing that I can see being a physical danger to Levi, as I firmly believe Eren wouldn’t attack him normally. That being said, I do believe that Isayama is purposefully making us question Eren to throw the readers off.

The only thing Eren and Zeke want right now is just to get to each other because they are pressed for time. Eren is still determined to see whatever they’re planning through before Historia has to become a sacrifice. Eren’s goal has been stated over and over - he wants to protect the people he loves, not get them hurt and killed. I’m sure Levi feels similarly.

I feel like if anything, an “Eren vs. Zeke” showdown is something far more likely to happen. Especially if Zeke turns out to truly be “the bad guy” and takes actions that Eren knows will hurt his friends. That being said, it’s something that would happen later down the road rather than in the forest at the beginning of a new arc.

Anyway, all of the things above are why I’m certain we’re not going to see a “Levi vs. Eren” showdown happen in the forest. To me, it feels like it would be a waste of their character development and the importance their relationship has had on the story. Eren and Levi have been shown to acknowledge and care about each other. They have inspired each other and have given each other hope in many situations. I’d hate to see Isayama just throw that all out the window after all of the buildup. If anything, I feel that the buildup is leading to a moment where Levi will have to help bring the Eren we are familiar with back to the forefront if Eren’s childhood friends are unable to do it on their own.

#snk spoilers #snk meta #ereri #eren jaeger #levi ackerman #zeke jaeger #eren yeager #zeke yeager #mymeta #idek it's a lot of rambling

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