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[animemocha]

Is Floch Erwin's True Successor? (Attack on Titan Essay)

In Attack on Titan, the tragic state of the world forces characters into situations where they must act against their nature to achieve something the story refuses to give them.

Peace, Happiness, and Freedom.

Isayama writes the characters so well that many of them already realise that to achieve their dreams, they must do things they don’t want to do. But they need to.

However, there is one character who defies this pattern and willingly becomes the exact kind of prick the story needs to achieve its intended complexity.

Devils

Floch Forster stands out because he fully embraces the role of a devil, showing no hesitation when doing what is necessary. And as the story evolves, we see him also evolve, becoming more and more cruel.

This explains why many viewers dislike him.

But there are numerous characters in fiction that people hate. However, that’s not because they’re bad characters.

But because they’re so good at being bad.

Because that’s how well-written they are.

Floch fits this category perfectly and his presence in Attack on Titan offers a much-needed contrast to the more heroic and compassionate characters we're used to.

Finding His Call

What's so intriguing is that Floch's journey didn't start this way.

He was pretty much a background character that was used to highlight the stark contrast between the new recruits and our more battle-hardened protagonists.

A popular opinion is that Floch really developed in season 4, but I’d argue that he started to change much sooner than that.

Through all the tears and fear, Floch started to change when he first faced the fear of dying meaninglessly.

He confessed to being a complete coward, a trait that became evident when he faced the possibility of a pointless death.

But who could blame him? It was a miracle that Erwin convinced the scouts to ride to certain death. But that’s part of the reason he was such an amazing commander.

Floch's main drive is quite simple and relatable; he doesn't want his life to be meaningless, and he wants the freedom to choose what is worth dying for.

The thought of leaving no impact on the world terrifies him.

After witnessing the bloodshed, he understood the kind of impact he wanted to make. He desired to contribute to a significant change in the world and liberate Eldia from its nightmare.

He wanted to make a difference.

In Floch's perspective, Commander Erwin's daring actions brought purpose to what would have otherwise been utterly pointless deaths.

This might be why Floch respected him.

He despised Erwin for leading everyone to their deaths, but he also realised that someone like Erwin was necessary to survive and pave the way to freedom.

Seeing Erwin's determination to advance at all costs, Floch started to appreciate the need for a devilish leader like him.

After that mission, Floch quickly developed a hatred for anyone outside the walls who contributed to imposing this hell on them, which is quite understandable.

He survived the same mission as the others, and even if he hadn't, his opinion is as valuable as anyone else's.

Just like everyone else, Floch has the right to fight and advocate for what he believes will create the best world for him and his people. He has the right to make his own decisions.

He has the right to freedom.

He feels guilty and finds it ridiculous that a coward like him survived the massacre of Shiganshina while everyone else perished. He sees this as a darkly humorous twist of fate.

However, the reality remains that, for whatever reason, he DID survive. And this instils him with a desire to fulfil his purpose with the time he has been given and not lead a pointless existence.

So, if he was going to do anything with his life, he was going to dedicate it to what he believed was the right cause.

He believed that the only way to win was by relying on a devil to lead them, and ironically, the same person he criticised became that devil.

The Right to Choose

Eren's plans gave him what Floch considered a second chance at life, so it's not surprising that he fully commits to this path without any doubts.

However, his words also hint at another idea: he values honesty.

After his ordeal, Floch becomes very direct and candid in expressing the harsh truth.

He plainly tells Hitch that Marlow and the others who died probably regretted dying like that, and he is straightforward in saying that Levi and Eren were too emotional in their decision to save Armin.

And he does all of this during a funeral for fallen scouts.

While many would consider this disrespectful, Floch likely believes that the entire funeral is a betrayal in the first place, because it glorifies all of these deaths as heroic when, in reality, they all probably died wishing they had never volunteered in the first place.

In season 4, we see Floch tell the Jeagerists about Eren’s imprisonment, a fact that was supposed to be a secret. You could argue that he did this solely for the benefit of the Jeagerists, but I think think he believed that people deserved to know the truth about what was behind the scenes.

He thinks they have the right to decide what to do after knowing the whole story, a privilege he never had in the Shiganshina mission.

The interesting thing here is that all of this is understandable. It may be dark, and he may have grown to completely ignore and dismiss the suffering they cause on the way to their goal, but I think it's understandable if you consider the hell he's witnessed and the people he cared about who have been torn apart.

Similarly, not everyone can or wants to see other perspectives when they've experienced something like that, and this is the result. I think all of this makes him realistic, resonant, and even a bit sympathetic.

At this point, I don't think Floch is evil for seeing everyone outside the walls as an enemy. Given the things he's witnessed, it may not be the best approach, but it's not an unimaginable mindset for someone like him to have.

But I have to emphasise, “At this point”.

Because, this is where the almost coherent side of Floch falls away to reveal someone who not only has no reservations about being the person to help lead the Eldian empire, but who takes pride in it and revels in it.

He crosses the line from an understandable yet unlikable character into a genuine threat when he starts showing his borderline sadism.

He uses Keith Shadis as a symbolic personification of stamping out the old ways by beating him up without any hint of remorse.

But he could never have done all of this alone, and he was enabled by clinging to the ideal hero he believed in through an almost parasitic attachment to this devil.

The concept of devils is rife within Attack on Titan.

The story needs devils.

The story needed Erwin.

It needed Eren.

And it needs Floch.

Humanity

One thing that is crucial about Floch is that when it comes down to it, he isn't a complete coward.

He had courage.

He gathered enough bravery to join Erwin's charge, stood up to Mikasa with his newfound ideals, and didn't hold back in defending what he believed was right.

After the time skip, you can accuse him of many things, but cowardice isn't one of them. I wouldn't go as far as to say Floch represents us, partly because that's too cynical.

But he's more like someone we could become if we lived through the hell he did. He embodies the idea that this story keeps highlighting: that life has meaning simply because you were born into this world.

Even someone like him should have the freedom to choose how to live and die, and to defend that freedom, he did what he did.

He doesn't care about being kind or open-minded. He's just a regular, vulnerable guy trying to live in a way he can be proud of. Sometimes, that's all it takes to turn someone into something unrecognisable.

He represents the perspective of the everyday person and how they can be influenced by different factors. He shows how, in response to bloodshed and the desire to have a meaningful life, one can become radicalized and extreme through warfare, becoming desensitised to tragedy and unwilling to see other perspectives.

It's no surprise that someone like him emerged from this chaos.

Despite his cruelty, we can learn a lot from him. His character is so human and so perfectly flawed.

And without him, Attack on Titan would not be the masterpiece that it is.

-----

I'm really sorry this came out so late.

I hope this doesn't feel rushed. I tried to put the same amount of care and effort into it as always, but I wasn't able to spice it up with nice screenshots and quotes this time.

It's been a really tough week for me, but we keep moving forward :)

The next essay (or maybe the one after that lol) will be something super special.

As always, I would greatly appreciate it if you could check out the full video essay.

[animemocha]

The Beauty of Hange Zoe (Attack on Titan Essay)

Breaking The Cycle

In the world of Attack on Titan, war and conflict shape every aspect of life. At the centre of this struggle are the Scout Regiment, fighting for the survival of humanity.

Many of these characters are fueled by traditional motives - they fight for their families, their honour, and to be called heroes.

But this cycle of violence, driven by the same old reasons, is leading nowhere.

It’s tiring. 

Eren isn’t the only character fighting for freedom, they all are. But it seems unattainably distant.

In this world where hope often dies before it can take root, there's a need for something �� or someone – different. Someone who doesn't just continue the cycle, but who can break it and bring about a new dawn.

This is where Hange Zoë comes in.

The Perfect Scout

Unlike many others, Hange isn't just fighting for the sake of fighting - they are defining what it is we're fighting for.

Hange’s strength is not only in combat but also in what they represent. While many characters in Attack on Titan are essential for rallying around a cause and fighting for it, Hange is among the few who define the cause in the first place.

While many are driven by the dark winds of revenge and hatred, Hange's heart pulses with a different force.

Insatiable curiosity.

An undying thirst for knowledge that offers a beacon in the gloom.

They live to uncover the secrets of the world, extend the boundaries of human knowledge, and protect their spiritual and physical home.

Despite experiencing tragedy and loss, Hange remains committed to this goal. They believe that through progress, discovery, and knowledge, the truth of the world will be revealed, and with it, the possibility of freedom.

I mentioned earlier that the Scout Regiment fights for humanity's survival, and while this is certainly something that they do, it isn’t the ONLY thing that they do, and I’d go as far as to say, it isn’t even the goal.

The purpose of the scouts was to learn, to advance, to push forward, and by doing that, survival is achieved as a by-product.

And in that sense, nobody embodies the scouts better than Hange.

Spark

It’s no secret that everybody loves Hange. It’s kind of impossible to hate them.

But Hange wasn’t always the exuberant and enthusiastic figure we see in the series.

Like many characters, Hange was once disillusioned, angry, and cynical about the world. 

But that all changed with one simple act.

One day, out of frustration, they kicked the head of a titan, only to be surprised by how bizarrely light it was. How can the head of a creature so massive weight next to nothing? It went against everything they had learnt.

And it was that simple act that set them on a path to of scientific inquiry into the mysteries of the world.

This small moment was a turning point. It ignited Hange’s passion for research, a flame that burned so fiercely that it bordered on recklessness or appeared as madness to everyone else.

But in this fire, Hange saw a light that many failed to perceive. Hange saw something.

Hange began to believe in a way out, a path dependent on discovery, collaboration, knowledge, and finding solutions. After all, this is the core ideal of the Scout Regiment, not war or death or mere survival.

But it isn’t easy to hold onto this idealism in the grim world of Attack on Titan. 

Over time, Hange faced roadblocks, stagnation, frustration, and the deaths of comrades and friends. They had to learn to stay focused, and to keep moving forward despite the obstacles.

And that’s perhaps when they faced their biggest challenge.

After becoming Commander of the Scout Regiment, the burden of leadership weighed heavily on Hange. The demands of duty, politics, and bureaucracy constrained their research. The compromises and hypocrisies necessary for leadership were agonising.

Yet, despite these challenges, Hange never lost themselves. They knew what it meant to be a scout, and they knew what their fallen comrades would have wanted. 

I know I’ve beat this drum to death, but I can’t stress how important it is to understand the core principles of the Scout Regiment. 

Finding the truth in search of a solution. Pushing forward. Advancing. And Exploring.

Erwin Smith is a character loved by many. But it’s crucial to understand, that while he was undoubtedly the greatest leader the scouts ever had, he didn’t embody their core principles. Or rather, he did not embody them to the extent Hange did.

Hange will never be as good of a leader as Erwin. But make no mistake. There is nobody that represents the scouts better than Hange.

And there’s no better example of this than a beautiful yet ever so tragic scene from season 4...

Hope

The entire reason the people in Paradis were forced to suffer was because of Marley. But the opposite is also true. The Marleyeans hate the Eldians, and the Eldians hate the Marleyeans. That isn’t an opinion. It is a fact established over centuries and a theme that is constantly reiterated.

And yet, somehow, before the final battle, we see an unlikely alliance form, we see connections built between former enemies.

But how did this happen? It seemed so impossible in the past? 

But it did happen.

So who’s to say there’s no hope?

Who's to say it can't happen again?

Through their actions, this unlikely alliance follows the Scout Regiment’s mission of serving humanity and searching for hope. They didn’t know if they would find the answer, but they acted in the belief that it might be found one day.

And that’s when we see an ever so unfortunate yet beautiful scene. One that is saddening, but also one that can’t help but bring a smile to our faces.

To make us feel proud.

The Commander's Sacrifice

Hange dedicated the end of their life to preventing the most inhumane act imaginable. After all, it was not the future that Hange and their comrades had dreamed of.

In the hallowed silence left by Hange's sacrifice, those they entrusted with the torch of tomorrow found the strength to march forth, bearing the profound ideological and spiritual legacy that Hange had cherished in their heartbeats.

As a powerful personification of the Scout Regiment's spirit and core values, Hange was content to do their part in resisting the nihilism of their world and believing in something more. They were courageous enough not to succumb to despair and to seek something different.

While Hange’s death was tragic, Hange knew that Eren’s broken dream was not the answer.

They believed that as long as there was a chance, they would try to find it.

Hope is not enough to win a war. But when this hope ignites the fire in others to take action, they can pave the way for a future where wars are no longer necessary.

This is the lasting impact that Hange Zoë had on the world.

Hange died as they lived, daring to believe that there was a chance for something better out there.

Beautiful Differences

While many characters in Attack on Titan exemplify heroism, courage, and sacrifice, Hange stands out as a beacon of hope and curiosity in a world overrun by despair and hatred. 

Hange’s insatiable desire for knowledge and understanding was their driving force, pushing them to explore the mysteries of the world even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Their unyielding belief in the possibility of a better world made them a symbol of resilience and hope amidst the darkness.

In the face of a world that glorifies war and condemns those who bear the torch of heroism, Hange's unique perspective was a breath of fresh air.

They refused to be swept up in the cycle of violence and revenge that consumed so many around them.

Whether you choose to admit it or not, many of the characters, if not almost all, are consumed, or perhaps even driven by one thing, malice.

Whether it’s Eren wanting revenge for his mother, Zeke’s detest for his father, Reiner’s hatred of the cruelty of the world, or Levi wanting to fulfil his promise to Erwin by killing Zeke, the fact is, a majority of the cast is driven by hatred. And that’s perfectly normal in this world.

But Hange was different. 

They didn’t harbour a hint of malice.

Instead, they chose to focus on the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, believing that these were the keys to a brighter future.

Their legacy serves as a testament to the power of hope, curiosity, and the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Hange's death was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that are often required in the pursuit of a better world. They gave their life to prevent a tragedy that would have forever scarred the world they loved.

Their actions were a testament to their belief in a brighter future, one where people could live in harmony without the constant threat of war and violence.

Hange Zoe - 14th Commander

In a world overshadowed by despair and hatred, Hange stands as a beacon of insatiable curiosity. They were a unique presence in Attack on Titan, choosing the pursuit of knowledge over the endless cycle of revenge that ensnared so many.

Their commitment to understanding, to believing in a better world, and their willingness to sacrifice for it, make them an enduring symbol of hope.

Hange may not have lived to see a world without war, but their legacy lives on, inspiring others to carry on the fight for a brighter tomorrow.

psst...

A few things...

First of all. I cannot stress enough how grateful I am for the support I received on my last post, especially those of you that went over to watch the full video on YouTube. The Gilgamesh video is now by far my most viewed video ever! (10,000 views for a channel with 80 subs is pretty crazy!)

Thanks for the lovely comments you left on my video, and thanks for letting me know you came from Tumblr!

If you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

(Wow I've used a lot of exclamation marks...)

- love ya

[animemocha]

Back to AoT this Monday!

Thanks for the unreal support on my Gilgamesh post! Hope nobody minds if I go back to AoT for a tiny bit. But there's still more Fate and Haikyuu content in the works :)

[animemocha]

Anime's Greatest Chad: The Epic of Gilgamesh (Fate)

Gilgamesh is known as mankind's first hero.

But his story isn’t limited to just the Fate series. In fact, it’s shaped our modern lives more than you could ever imagine. 

If you’re here for a historically accurate depiction of the man who tried to conquer death, don’t leave. I’ve worked really hard to make this as accurate as possible.

And if you’re here for the story of the real anime Gigachad, and how he goes from an arrogant dictator to a benevolent king.

Then grab a drink and some snacks, because this, is the tale of the Hero of Heroes.

Roots of the King

Before we jump into the Epic of Gilgamesh, it’s worth taking a second to understand the roots of this iconic character and his influence on human culture and literature.

Mesopotamia was a region in 3100 BC, now covered by Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. It had its fair share of events, from the reigns of Sumerians and Akkadians to being eventually conquered by Alexander the Great in 332 BC.

But nestled within this timeline is a certain story that’s so profound, so raw, it's been echoing for millennia.

Now I know what you’re thinking.

"I'm here for anime, not a history lesson."

But the thing is, all evidence points to Gilgamesh actually existing 5000 years ago. And his legend is recorded in mankind’s oldest poem, the Epic of Gilgamesh.

The epic is thought to have been orally transmitted for generations before it was finally written down on clay tablets in the cuneiform script, which was one of the earliest systems of writing.

To put into context how old that is, it makes him almost 3000 years older than Jesus. 

But I wouldn’t take EVERYTHING that follows as being literal. Just know that some of the stuff is actually reported to have happened.

The Hero of Heroes

Gilgamesh is known as the King of all Heroes because every single myth that followed, every story, every legend from every culture and every religion in every country, it all borrows inspiration from mankind’s first hero.

The strongest examples of this are in the Biblical tale of Noah and the Greek myth of Hercules. And his story greatly influences modern literature too, like The Lord of the Rings and A Game of Thrones.

The story of the Epic of Gilgamesh was discovered on 12 clay tablets found among the ruins of the ancient library of Ashurbanipal, the last great king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

These tablets, inscribed with cuneiform script, are dated to around the 7th century BC but are believed to preserve much older stories that were likely first told orally and later written down.

These ancient tablets provide the most comprehensive version of the epic, but parts of the tale also appear on other scattered fragments found at different ancient sites across the Middle East.

There are actually two versions of Gilgamesh in the Fate series and they’re technically different people.

Well, they’re not, but they kind of are. 

Archer Gilgamesh

We’re in the year 2800 B.C., the Age of the Gods, where divine beings and humans walked the Earth together.

Some Gods were just, while others treated their subjects as slaves.

One day, a greater god called Sefar invaded the Earth, killing many of the Gods.

She was eventually defeated, but the damage was already done, and the rule the gods had over the humans had severely weakened.

In order to preserve their rule, the gods needed a keystone, a Wedge of Heaven that connected the rising humans to the fading gods.

That keystone was Gilgamesh.

Born from the Goddess Ninsun and the Human King Lugalbanda, Gilgamesh was two-thirds God, and one-third human, and ruled over humanity with the mission to observe and adjudicate.

The Fortress City

The city Gilgamesh ruled over was called Uruk, situated in present-day Iraq.

Yet, Uruk was far from ordinary.

It stood as a testament to human achievement, its towering walls not just architectural marvels but also echoes of the ambitions of its people.

Conceived under the watchful eye of Gilgamesh, these walls became more than mere defensive structures; they symbolised humanity's victory over nature. This audacious statement reflected Gilgamesh's own beliefs: that he stood above nature itself.

As evidence of its profound legacy, archaeologists pinpoint Uruk as one of humanity's earliest urban epicentres, with roots as deep as 4000 BCE. Its intricate temples, ziggurats, and canal systems all serve as relics of its storied past.

The Tyrannical King

This transcendence over nature, and the very walls that proclaimed it, became the lens through which Gilgamesh viewed himself.

To him, the limitations of divinity and humanity were but mere lines in the sand.

He believed that while no human could rival the gods, the gods themselves could never experience the complexities of human existence.

And since Gilgamesh was both human and God, he perceived himself not just above his subjects, but even the deities that breathed life into him.

His self-awareness was, in many ways, his crowning achievement.

Gilgamesh grew to become a cruel, arrogant, and oppressive tyrant who subjugated his people to forced labour and sexual abuse.

And just to be clear, I’m downplaying that a lot because even I don’t want to talk about some of the disgusting things he is historically reported to have done.

And it makes me wonder how he ever became a Heroic Spirit in the first place.

The Man Made of Clay

Naturally, the gods didn’t want this, but they couldn’t exactly do anything about it because, well, Gilgamesh just wouldn’t submit to them.

So instead, the King of God’s Anu, and the Goddess of Creation Aruru, created a monster out of clay called Enkidu, to punish the arrogant king.

But there was a problem.

You see, Enkidu didn’t have a soul, and so couldn’t make rational decisions.

So the gods sent a divine harlot to sleep with him. (And I’m not even joking.) 

After this, Enkidu takes human form, and his final appearance is very similar to the girl he slept with. And that’s why he has such a feminine form.

(It’s definitely not because having more hot girls leads to more sales)

Noble Phantasm's

Before we dive into what happened between Gilgamesh and Enkidu, let’s talk about Gilgamesh’s powers, or more specifically, Archer Gilgamesh’s powers.

In Fate, heroic spirits have Noble Phantasms, which are special weapons or abilities that embody the legend of that hero. For example, King Arthur’s Noble Phantasm, or rather, Artoria’s Noble Phantasm (Again, because more hot girls = more sales), is Excalibur, the sword of promised victory.

Gilgamesh has a lot of Noble Phantasms, and I mean, A LOT. It would take me a decade to cover them all, but I’ll talk about a few.

Sha Naqba Imuru:

The first is his ability Sha Naqba Imuru, or Clairvoyance, which lets him see into the future and see the truth of anything he looks at.

So in a fight, he knows exactly who his opponent is, what their abilities are, and how best to defeat them. Or if he’s playing chess, then he knows the correct move every time.

This ability is pretty OP but the thing is, Gilgamesh barely uses it.

Why?

Because he’s an arrogant prick.

He believes himself to be so powerful, that he doesn’t even need it most of the time.

And uhm… he’s kinda right...

Especially when you learn about his next Noble Phantasm.

The Gate of Babylon:

During his time as ruler of Uruk, Gilgamesh amassed every single weapon on Earth and stored them all in his treasury.

And I genuinely mean, every single weapon.

And the Gate of Babylon allows him to choose whichever weapon he wants, whenever he wants, wherever he wants. 

But that’s not how Gilgamesh uses it...

Every single weapon is fired out at a speed of Mach 10, and he has so many, that he could go his entire life firing them away without having to use a single one twice.

What makes this ability even more OP, is that these weapons aren’t just ordinary weapons. Every single one of them is a Noble Phantasm in itself. Artoria’s Excalibur, Lancer’s Gae Bolg, Hercules’ Nine Lives, Gilgamesh has all of these weapons in his treasury.

But how is that possible if these heroes came AFTER Gilgamesh?

Well. That’s because they’re prototypes. 

I mentioned earlier that almost every legend told today is in some way inspired by the Epic of Gilgamesh. And in the same way, every weapon used today has a design that is somehow based on those in his treasury.

He owns every weapon that existed and owns every weapon that is yet to exist.

And don’t get me wrong.

While they’re technically prototypes, it is said that if you compare the original weapon to Gilgamesh’s prototype, the original will look like a fake, that’s how well-made the prototype is.

Not only that, but in a fight, the prototype will beat the original every time.

Now that doesn’t mean that if Gilgamesh were to use Excalibur and fight Artoria in a 1 on 1 swordfight that he would win.

He’d probably lose.

And that’s because he’s a jack of all trades but master of none.

Gilgamesh is a brilliant swordsman. But these other heroic spirits have spent their entire lives mastering a single weapon, and thus can use them to their full potential, which Gilgamesh cannot.

That being said. Gilgamesh DOES have one weapon that only he can use, one so powerful that it defies reality itself. Buuuuut I’ll talk about that later.

The Great Battle

Enkidu eventually confronts Gilgamesh outside of the Temple of Uruk, stating that he needed to be punished for disobeying the gods.

But Gilgamesh isn’t one to let anyone talk down on him.

So he engages Enkidu in a battle that lasts days on end.

And this was pretty new to Gil. It was the first time he ever came across someone equal in strength to him, which forced him to use his Gate of Babylon.

Gilgamesh was furious that someone had caused him to waste his weapons, he was humiliated.

But eventually, he stopped caring, and he even started to enjoy himself after finally finding someone worthy to be in his presence.

This battle lasted so long and was so fearsome that Gil exhausted every single weapon in his treasury, but by this point, Enkidu was severely weakened and Gilgamesh had won.

But instead of finishing him off, Gilgamesh extended a hand to him.

He saw Enkidu as an equal, and Enkidu ended up becoming Gil’s first friend, his only friend.

Friendship

One day, Gilgamesh set his sights upon defeating the Beast of the God’s, Humbaba.

But the thing is, the God’s hadn’t told him to do this, and he wasn’t doing it for the sake of his people either, because, well… he didn’t care about them.

Gilgamesh simply saw Humbaba as something that needed to be removed from the Earth in order to see out his mission.

Gilgamesh had always disobeyed the God’s so that he could be far removed from them, and he wanted his people to hate him so that he could be far removed from them, because that was the only way he could be truly neutral, because that was the mission for which he was born.

In this sense, you could argue that the reason that Gilgamesh was such an abhorrent dictator, was because he didn’t want to get close to his subjects, so that he could remain impartial.

(I don’t know how much truth there is to that and it could simply be a result of the story being altered as it was passed from generation to generation.)

Either way, seeing Gilgamesh’s resolve, Enkidu pledges his loyalty to him, and the two go on numerous adventures together, which ends with Gilgamesh becoming the wealthiest and most powerful king on Earth.

He amassed so much power that even the gods had no choice but to acknowledge it. One Goddess in particular, Ishtar, the Goddess of Fertility, asked Gilgamesh to marry her.

The King's Loss

Marrying a Goddess was actually one of Gilgamesh’s duties as it would see the continued reign of the gods over the humans, but Gilgamesh said no.

Enraged, Ishtar went to her father Anu, and asked him to unleash the Divine Beast Gugalanna on Uruk.

This divine beast devastated the lands for 7 years before Gilgamesh and Enkidu were finally able to defeat it. But this came at a price.

Ishtar asked the gods to sentence Gilgamesh and Enkidu to their deaths. While the Gods agreed, they couldn’t do anything to Gil, but they could to Enkidu, because he was their direct creation. 

Enkidu’s clay body weakened and weakened until it would eventually return to the very Earth from which it had come.

Gilgamesh stayed by his friend's side until the very end.

While this event is not shown directly shown in the anime, it is mentioned in the original Sumerian poem from three thousand years ago, translated as follows:

“It saddens me. It saddens me, Gil. Who would understand you after I die? Who else would march by your side? My friend… when I think you will live on all alone henceforth, I can’t help but shed tears. But don’t be saddened. For I am but another of your treasures.” - Enkidu

It’s honestly a rather heartbreaking end to their friendship.

One would have thought that the arrogant and prideful King of Heroes would have had a rather stoic response. But history says otherwise:

"You do have worth. You alone have this worth. I hereby declare: In all this world, only one shall be my friend. Thus---not for all eternity shall his worth ever change." - Gilgamesh

And with this, Enkidu returned to the Earth, leaving nothing behind but Gilgamesh's thunderous cry.

And for those of you who have watched Fate Zero, you’ll know that Gilgamesh kept this promise, even thousands and thousands of years later.

The Herb

After Enkidu’s death, Gilgamesh realised something.

As he was one-third human, he too would one day die.

If this were to happen, he would not be able to fulfil his dream of watching over humanity until the end of time, and it also meant he would not be able to carry out his purpose as the Wedge of Heaven.

And thus, for the first time in his existence, the king of heroes felt fear.

And this brings us to the core of the ancient Sumerian poem.

Gilgamesh, wanting to beat death, set out on a journey to find the only treasure that he didn’t have in his vault—the Herb of Immortality.

What does this herb do?

Well, it’s in the name so figure it out for yourselves.

Gilgamesh wandered the Earth for several decades in search of this herb, and eventually, stumbles upon a wise sage in the underworld that guides him in the right direction.

Sure enough, Gil finds the herb and is absolutely euphoric, because he has just beaten death, and all that’s left for him to do, is return to Uruk, and see over his people until the end of time.

Before beginning his journey back home, Gil decides to wash off in a nearby spring, where he first places the herb on the ground. However, as fate would have it, a serpent stumbles upon the bathing Gilgamesh, and after seeing the herb, it eats it.

And a little fun fact. It’s thought that the Sumerians and many of the cultures that followed, believed that snakes have the ability to shed their skin because this serpent ate the herb of immortality, giving snakes the ability to be reborn.

Much like the biblical tale of Adam, Eve, and the serpent, this story serves as a stark reminder of life's impermanence and the inevitable reality of death.

By losing the herb, Gilgamesh confronts the bitter truth: immortality remains beyond human grasp.

After realising what happened, you’d think Gilgamesh would be upset, or that he would be outraged, but, he wasn’t.

He realised that death was unavoidable and that by dying, he wasn’t abandoning his duty, he was completing it, because it was the most human thing he could do.

He realised that you didn’t die because you were human, but you were human because you died. 

And with his Sha Naqba Imuru, Gilgamesh was able to see into the future, and what he saw was exactly what he loved about the humans in the first place.

He saw the continued growth of the human race, the way their knowledge developed, and the way they used their resources to reach for the stars and beyond.

With this new outlook, Gilgamesh returned to Uruk as a changed man.

Caster Gilgamesh

While Archer Gilgamesh was an arrogant tyrant that did disgusting things, Caster Gilgamesh was kind, generous, and benevolent.

He loved his people so much that he actually gave away all the swords in his treasury. 

You see, these two versions of Gilgamesh are still the same person. It’s just that Archer Gilgamesh is the version of Gilgamesh we see before Enkidu’s death, and Caster Gilgamesh is the one we see after the death of his friend.

And yes, technically, Caster Gilgamesh is weaker than Archer Gilgamesh, and the biggest reason for that is the fact that he gave away so many of his weapons, weakening his Gate of Babylon.

But Caster Gilgamesh also had a noble phantasm that Archer Gilgamesh didn’t, Melammu Dingir, or King’s Signal Cannon. 

If you’ve ever seen the movie Three Hundred, it’s a lot like that. But except for arrows, he’s firing every weapon he has at his disposal.

As I mentioned, Caster Gilgamesh was much more generous than Archer Gilgamesh, and he gave away his treasures for them to be used in cannons, should the city of Uruk need protection.

As such, this Noble Phantasm is classed as an Anti-Army ability, firing every weapon mankind had in one go.

But if you think that’s powerful, there’s one more noble phantasm I haven’t yet mentioned. But this one didn’t belong to Caster Gilgamesh, it belonged to Archer Gilgamesh. 

The Sword of Rupture

Imagine a weapon so mighty that it not only holds power beyond comprehension but also taps into the very essence of our universe's creation. 

Enter Ea, the sword of rupture.

But is it even correct to call it a sword?

Ea is the pinnacle of Noble Phantasms and is the strongest weapon in Gilgamesh’s treasury and it is unique to only him.

You might think it kind of looks like a sword, but it actually isn’t. It was designed before the concept of a “sword” even existed and so, it’s in its own class.

To even summon Ea, Gilgamesh first has to unlock the depths of his treasury with a key that only he possesses, and after that, we see the mere act of obtaining Ea disrupts reality itself.

Designed intricately, each section of Ea represents the Heaven’s, the Earth, and the Underworld, with the sections rotating in opposite directions, echoing the universe’s vast expanse.

Gilgamesh claims that the sword "knows the truth" of the world where it once existed, and by using its power, it is able to bestow its knowledge upon others.

The weapon holds memories of a time even before the planet existed, a time when life, as we understand it, couldn't have survived. The memory of our universe's raw, primordial form, a chaotic blend of scorching heat and biting cold, of molten lava and dense gas, long before life as we know it began.

This primordial memory is embedded deep within our very DNA, a distant echo from eons past, now faded from our tales and consciousness.

Yet, to those who gaze upon the sword, this deep-seated, almost forgotten knowledge comes rushing back.

To Gilgamesh, Ea is more than just a weapon.

It’s an entity.

He treats it like a person. He talks to it, respects it, and unleashes its might only against those he deems truly worthy.

This isn't just any weapon; it's a creation from even before our planet's dawn, crafted by an unknown God and was once used to split the Heavens and Earth.

It is classed as an anti-universe noble phantasm with power unlike any other and its ability is called “Enuma Elish”, and to use the ability, Gilgamesh first recites an incantation, which is as follows:

“I will tell you of the beginning. Heaven and Earth split, nothingness congratulated creation, my Sword of Rupture cleaved the world!"

"Mortar of the stars, heaven's hell is the eve of creation's celebration. Now you shall die and be silent..."

This is actually another Babylonian tale from thousands of years ago titled “The Story of Creation”, buuuuuuuut I'll cover that another time.

I know that I’ve been describing Ea as a “weapon”, but it isn’t that at all. In fact, that barely scratches the surface of its true nature.

It's not an exaggeration when I say that Enuma Elish has the power to tear the universe apart. Yet, even such an unparalleled force had its moment of surprise.

(There is one recorded instance of it being stopped, something which shocked even Gilgamesh, but that’s a story for another time...) 

Gilgamesh is only seen using this ability on two occasions, once against Rider and another against Tiamat, a primordial deity that almost destroyed the world and was so powerful, that even Gilgamesh couldn’t defeat her. Or rather, Caster Gilgamesh couldn’t. Because like I said before, Archer Gilgamesh is on an entirely different level.

Reunion

We see Gilgamesh use Ea’s full strength against Enkidu, not in their first battle, but rather, when they met again thousands of years later in Fate Strange/Fake.

Here, the world itself is sucked into the void created by the sword, and it begins tearing apart. But Enkidu has his own version of Enuma Elish and thus was able to hold the World together.

The battle is described as follows by those that observed it:

"I felt as if the World was born seven times, and destroyed seven times." - The Sacred Prostitute.

This meeting here is honestly, beautiful. And I know that’s a weird way to describe what is essentially a war to the death between mages, but that’s all I can say about it.

We know how much Gilgamesh values Ea. He is disgusted by the thought of someone unworthy even laying their eyes on it. And it’s so rare that we ever see him even using it.

But when he realises that his opponent is his first and only friend, he pulls out Ea with zero hesitation. [Say it with slight laughter]

In fact, this is the happiest we ever see Gilgamesh. He spends the entire battle laughing his heart out, and we see Enkidu, with a hand to his ears, admiring the sound of his friend's laughter as if it were a song. 

It’s a tragedy that Gilgamesh will never be able to see Enkidu again. But that’s life. As sad as it is to admit, we all have people we care about that will be gone from our lives forever.

It’s no wonder that Gilgamesh’s greatest treasure wasn’t any of his riches, any of his weapons, the holy grail, or even Ea.

It was his friendship with Enkidu.

And with that, I’ve covered a fraction of The Epic of Gilgamesh. It took a lot of work and there’s a lot I couldn’t talk cover. I’ll probably make another post dedicated to Ea and another on Enkidu, but I’ll warn you, be prepared to cry.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

And I don't normally add this, but if I can be a teenie bit selfish on this one occasion:

Please check out the video (if you'd so graciously lend me a few minutes of your time) because it's by far the hardest I've ever worked on a video and I wholly believe the end result is really good. You can always leave a dislike and tell me how to improve if you don't like it lol

- love ya

[animemocha]

Taking a small break from AoT this week

Essay (but uhh... it's not really an essay? More like Gilgamesh lore) out later today!

[animemocha]

Why Erwin Smith is the Best Character in Attack on Titan

There are few characters in anime that carry the gravitas and depth of the 13th commander of the survey corps. And it isn’t exactly a stretch to say that Erwin is one of the best characters in Attack on Titan. His leadership, strategic brilliance, and inherent human conflict have made him a subject of admiration among fans. And while everyone loves him, I don’t think many people at all grasp how truly remarkable Erwin is as both a person and a character.

So in this essay, I’ll explain why Erwin Smith is not only the best character in Attack on Titan, but also one of the best characters in anime in general.

Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine being faced with an insurmountable threat, one that's not only physically daunting but also shrouded in layers of mystery. What would you be willing to sacrifice to unearth the truth? And what do you do when those sacrifices, which involve the lives of the people you hold most dear, barely make a dent in your search for the truth?

In Attack on Titan, the path to this dream requires a disturbing price. It leaves one to contemplate whether such violence and sacrifice can ever justify the end. Such transformations require leaders of extraordinary resolve. And, as the narrative unfolds, we're left with a question: who is strong enough to bear such burdens?

Enter Erwin Smith.

Born to a teacher in Wall Rose, Erwin's life was a dichotomy from the start. He held aspirations of discovering the truth behind the walls, fueled by a world depicted in books. 

As a child, Erwin Smith was never one to accept things as they were. His father painted a world beyond the walls, sparking his insatiable thirst for the truth. But why did these tales of a world beyond matter so deeply to a young boy?

The walls of Paradis held more than just Titans; they held secrets. When whispers of the government's deception reached Erwin's ears, it was like a discordant note in a symphony.

His father's clandestine theory suggested memories could be manipulated, history altered. Imagine a world where seeking the truth might sign your death warrant.

And then, the unspeakable happened.

Young Erwin's innocent chatter led to the sinister assassination of his father. And with that loss, guilt and purpose intertwined, pushing him towards a path where his personal quest for truth echoed a greater dream: humanity's freedom.

Now, what would you do if you were Erwin? Would you dive headfirst into the shadows of conspiracy, or would the trauma steer you away?

Erwin's journey wasn't solely about vengeance or personal redemption. It was also about a world where curiosity wouldn't be met with a blade. Where one could dream of freedom without waking up to a nightmare.

Erwin's vision was twofold: transparency and prosperity for his people, and liberation from the monstrous titans that loomed outside the walls.

Yet, was it the titans that were the real enemies? Or did Erwin perceive another lurking shadow?

Erwin's journey was never just about humanity's freedom; nor was it just about validating a father's belief and seeking a truth so powerful that it consumed him. It was both.

What happens when you’re faced with the darkest side of leadership? For Erwin, this meant embracing a duality—becoming the very darkness he fought against. Becoming the devil.

He sacrificed countless soldiers, lied, and embraced the very essence of what he was battling, not out of cruelty, but necessity. Erwin became the very demon that humanity needed. 

But don’t mistake his resolve for coldness. Every soldier lost, every decision made weighed on him, manifesting the sheer significance of their collective mission. Yet, when paths diverged between his personal mission and humanity's survival, which did Erwin choose? 

Each one of us holds personal ambitions, dreams that sometimes conflict with greater responsibilities. Erwin's heart pulsed with two driving forces, sometimes at odds, sometimes in harmony. But wasn’t it this very personal dream that fueled his relentless pursuit of freedom?

It's a dance of two desires: one for the collective good and one for personal vindication. Erwin’s resilience was fueled by moments when his childhood spirit, robbed by reality’s cruel grip, surfaced in fleeting moments of hope.

A commander first, a devil or a hero second. Every decision he took, every stand he made was underpinned by a singular focus – breaking the chains of oppression, not just for himself, but for the very soul of his deceased father and the oppressed masses. 

War carved out the man Erwin became. Every single joyous moment in his life was hard-won, a tiny speck of brightness in an otherwise bleak existence. Yet, it was his very obsession with a dream that prompted Levi to give him a final rest.

Erwin's actions often seemed to echo his personal dream's pull, but delve deeper, and you see a man who consistently put himself in harm's way for humanity's sake. This was no clear black and white decision; it was a myriad of grays, a tumult of conflicting emotions and motivations.

At the climax, the choice loomed large: the basement's secrets, embodying his and his father's dreams, or the bigger picture he had fought for. The weight of his past, the hopes of those who had fallen in pursuit of the same dream, paralyzed him.

Even as he admitted to prioritizing his dream over humanity's survival, when the chips were down, the internal conflict rendered him unable to decide. Isn’t that the most human of all reactions?

And in that climactic moment, Erwin relinquished his dream, charging with his troops towards uncertainty. Was it a final act of selflessness or the culmination of a life dedicated to a singular vision? It's a question that even Levi grapples with, as he chooses for Erwin, bringing a sense of peace to a man torn between duty and desire.

For Erwin, the basement wasn't just a location—it was an obsession, a beacon of hope when darkness loomed. But even the strongest beacons can only illuminate so far, and there's a limit to how much agony one can bear.

Erwin wasn't just crucial; he was irreplaceable. The world didn’t need a leader that was LIKE, Erwin Smith. They specifically needed Erwin. The Scouts' progress would have halted without him. Yet war is cruel, often claiming those who shine the brightest before their tasks are complete. In losing Erwin, his comrades didn't just inherit a legacy; they bore the weight of his unfulfilled dream.

The world saw Erwin as both a devil and a hero. He bore burdens few could imagine, and as Levi noted, even in death, they seemed poised to bring him back to his hellish existence. But maybe, in his core, Erwin yearned for a simpler reward: rest, freedom, and forgiveness. 

Armin symbolized hope in a different way. While Erwin was chained to a singular idea, Armin's mind soared beyond known barriers. His idealism cast Erwin's struggles in stark relief. In this new world, Erwin's sacrifices paved the way for dreamers like Armin.

One of the series' most poignant moments sees the public, once critics, now cheer the Survey Corps. Erwin, their steadfast leader, basks in this fleeting moment of universal love and for me, this will always be one of the greatest moments in the show.

He, who had been vilified for much of his tenure, was human. Every insult, every doubt, weighed on him. And in this brief moment, he tasted the sweetness of universal respect. 

For all his monumental achievements, Erwin Smith found joy in moments. The world may remember him as the man who reshaped history, but perhaps he'll remember the world as a place where fleeting moments of happiness propelled him forward—right until his selfless end.

Sometimes a hero, sometimes a devil, but always a commander.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

- love ya

[animemocha]

Next essay is on one of my favourite characters! Out Monday :)

[animemocha]

Why Mikasa Ackerman is a Great Character

Mikasa Ackerman is a character that gets a lot of hate. But is any of it actually deserved?

Well… no. 

No, it’s not.

And I’m going to explain why all of these videos are wrong. And don’t worry, there are no spoilers in this essay.

(Note: There is a very mild spoiler for the final chapters in the last image. So if you don't want to be spoiled... uhm... don't look at it?)

Dissecting the Dissent

Mikasa is a crucial yet misunderstood cog in the Attack on Titan universe. People complain that she’s overdependent, blindly infatuated, perpetually donning a tattered scarf, and one-dimensional. But is any of this actually true? 

Again… no.

First things first. Why do people think Mikasa is a bad character? 

Number one, her over-reliance on Eren: everything she does is in service to Eren, in other words, she’s a simp.

Number two, a lack of character development: she doesn’t change through the series. Her views and values stay the same, making her static, rather than dynamic.

Number three, she’s a plot device: her strength is used to move Eren’s story along, rather than her own.

Number four, she lacks complexity: her ideologies don’t evolve and are centred around… you guessed it, Eren, and she doesn’t have the depth that Eren, Reiner, or Levi do.

Echoes from the Past

Let’s rewind back to Episode 6 – "The World the Girl Saw". 

Here, we first catch a glimpse of Mikasa's past. She's an only child, raised in a loving household until the cruelty of their world brutally tears it away. 

Tragic irony tinges every anime tale – happiness is fleeting. In Mikasa's case, it was cruelly snatched away, leaving her at the mercy of black-market bandits. But, fate intervened in the form of young Eren Yeager, igniting Mikasa’s fighting spirit and triggering the emergence of her formidable Ackerman abilities. 

A Bond Born from Trauma

Now, let's dive into the heart of her relationship with Eren. We see her protectiveness, her blind loyalty, and her undying love. But how far will she go for him? Let's hold that thought for now. 

Mikasa’s affection for Eren is no secret.

Yes, Mikasa is attached to Eren, but this attachment stems from a deeply traumatic childhood event where Eren saved her life and gave her a reason to live.

This relationship is integral to Mikasa's character, but it's not her entire character. Her sense of justice, her ability to make hard choices, and her care for others outside of Eren (like Armin and Historia) showcase a character that has more facets than just her relationship with Eren.

She is not a "simp"; she is a survivor who found a purpose and fought for it.

Love and Morality

Fast forward to Season Four, where Eren reveals a different, darker side, and Mikasa faces her greatest challenge yet. Eren, the person she devoted her life to protecting, declares his hatred for her.

Is it truth or deception? Well, it doesn't really matter. Because, the blow is dealt, and Mikasa’s world is shattered.

As Eren marches towards devastation, Mikasa grapples with her inner turmoil. Her love for Eren is pitted against her moral compass, forcing her to make a heartrending decision. Should she protect Eren, the architect of a forthcoming massacre, or defy him in the name of humanity?

A Symbol of Resilience

While it may appear that Mikasa does not undergo a significant transformation, she does change throughout the series. Her struggle with her feelings for Eren, particularly in the final arc, and her decision to stand against him illustrates her growth.

Her constant struggle to protect those she loves while grappling with the brutal reality of their world is a significant and subtle form of character development.

In this defining moment, Mikasa steps forward, propelled by her principles rather than her love for Eren. She becomes a symbol of humanity's strength and resilience.

People hate Mikasa's character because she has no depth in her ideological or philosophical beliefs. But that was never the point. Her depth is in her emotional journey. Her struggle between loyalty, love, and duty, her grappling with the harshness of their world, and her longing for a semblance of peace make her a complex and layered character.

She may not have grand speeches or explicit ideological conflicts like Eren or Levi, but her internal struggles and choices add depth to her character.

In a show that heavily focuses on ideological conflicts and grand narratives, Mikasa's simplicity and her struggle with personal, intimate issues offer a refreshing perspective and adds to the overall complexity of Attack on Titan.

So, what have we learned from Mikasa's journey?

The woman many dismissed as one-dimensional is, in reality, a character of depth, complexity, and heart.

If Armin personifies courage and is the embodiment of the human spirit, then Mikasa personifies loyalty, love, and most importantly, the strength to stand against the person she loves most for the sake of humanity.

And that’s why Mikasa Ackerman, is in fact, an amazing character.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

- love ya

[animemocha]

Thank you all for the amazing support on my last essay. Hopefully you like what's coming next!

[animemocha]

How Armin Became Attack on Titan's Most Important Character

The Boy With a Dream

In the first season of Attack on Titan, most people saw Armin as kiiiind of a wimp. And even if you didn’t think that was true, it was probably because… well… you didn’t give a shit. 

And I wouldn’t blame you for that. He started off as a character that was kinda just… “there”.

But I’d argue that Armin is the most important character in the entire show.

And by the end of this essay, you’ll see why there’s nobody more perfect to be the 15th commander of the scouts, than Armin Arlert.

Armin’s Strength

Let’s get straight into it. In season 1, most characters considered Armin to be weak. And in all honesty, you couldn’t really blame them for it. Because at this point in the story, the only thing that mattered was how good you were at killing titans, and poor, gentle Armin was never great at that like certain others were. 

Armin wasn't strong in the conventional sense; his strength lay in his ability to strategise, to see beyond the obvious, to dream. His intellect is well-established early on when he deduces the identity of the Female Titan, a feat even senior members of the corps struggled with.

Armin's intelligence isn't the flashiest weapon, but it's undeniably one of the most potent. 

But, I do understand how some people may feel that his lack of physical prowess diminishes his character, to which I assert — Armin's strength lies not in his fists, but in his mind, and even more so, in his heart.

The Strategist Emerges

Armin's strength wasn't in his combat skills. It was in his brilliant mind.

When he figured out Annie Leonhart was the Female Titan, we were shown that Armin, probably physically weakest, could indeed be the most formidable. His knack for strategic thinking, identifying patterns, and understanding the enemy saved the day, again and again. 

And it was his quick thinking during the Battle of Trost that led to the first victory of humanity.

Evolution Amidst Adversity

As the story of "Attack on Titan" expanded, so did Armin's character. Season 2 onwards saw Armin break free from societal and personal shackles, growing into a confident strategist crucial to humanity's survival. His transformation is best encapsulated when he devises a plan to defeat the Colossal Titan, a move that ends up costing him dearly.

The scouts had come up against the 60m behemoth of a titan on three occasions prior to this, and they never had a way to deal with him. 

But then again how is anyone supposed to stop a literal nuke with swords?

And yet, Armin DOES manage to stop him, granted, it was with a teenie tiny caveat.

And as he lies there burning with his life fading away, you can’t help but admire how he truly came into his own, proving his worth to himself and his comrades. 

Armin’s “death” here wasn’t a by-product of his plan, it WAS the plan. In a moment of desperation, he knew that he had no choice but to play the sacrificial pawn, to hand his dreams of seeing the sea to Eren.

And in the face of sure death, Armin didn't flinch. His courage at that moment was a stark contrast to the terrified child we first met. And it's that sacrifice, his willingness to give everything for humanity, that led to his eventual inheritance of the Colossal Titan.

Self Discovery

Post-resurrection, Armin's life changes drastically. His very existence, once undervalued, is now pivotal to humanity's survival. The unassuming boy is replaced by a formidable titan-shifter with the memories of previous shifters burdening his mind.

This part of Armin's journey is harrowing to witness. As he grapples with the weight of his new identity, we see a new Armin emerge — more introspective, stronger, and ready to confront the challenges ahead.

And perhaps the greatest challenge he had to face wasn’t against an enemy, a titan, or even Marely. It was against his own friend.

When Eren took to a path of destruction, Armin was faced with an agonising dilemma.

Torn between loyalty to his friend and the greater good, Armin showcased his emotional depth and moral integrity. Even when faced with heartbreaking choices, Armin remained steadfast, symbolising the human spirit's resilience.

The 15th Commander

And this resilience is tested most after the death of one of my favourite character’s in the show. A character that saw something in Armin that he didn’t even see in himself. A character that bestowed Armin with the title of the 15th Commander of the Scout Regiment.

As we approach the end of the series, you can't help but ponder Armin's fate. He has transformed from a naïve, curious boy into a figurehead for humanity's survival. The boy who once only dreamed of the sea has now witnessed its vastness, only to find more enemies. Will he finally break free from everything that's shackling him down? Can he finally achieve the freedom he yearned for? Only time will tell.

Armin's journey is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the human spirit. He teaches us that one does not need to be the strongest or the most powerful to make a difference. Intelligence, courage, and a heart filled with hope can be just as potent. In a world steeped in darkness and despair, Armin Arlert shines brightly, a beacon of hope and determination.

And so, we continue to delve into his journey, into the heart of this fascinating world, unravelling the complexities, peeling back the layers. Because at its core, this story is not just about a fight for survival. It's about the human spirit's unyielding desire for freedom.

Armin Arlert is a character that teaches us that even in the face of insurmountable odds, one can carve out a path to the future. A character that reminds us, in the end, that the human spirit is capable of unimaginable strength.

And I can't wait to see how his journey concludes. After all, everyone loves a good story, and Armin's is nothing short of extraordinary.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

- love ya

[animemocha]

New essay will be on something a little different to Haikyuu...

[animemocha]

Ushijima Wakatoshi: The Perfect Ace (Haikyuu Essay)

Haikyuu is brilliantly divided into three sections, the Miyagi matches, nationals, and a time skip where we see one of my favourite games and moments (which I shan't mention).

Three of the four seasons focus on the first section of the manga. One of the things this section does so well, is set up the perfect antagonist, the perfect end goal.

In Dragonball Z we have Frieza, in Demon Slayer we have Muzan, and in Attack on Titan we have… uhh I’m not really sure what we have… 

Anyway.

Haikyuu does things a little differently. While Oikawa was definitely a hurdle, and a large one at that. The end goal was always one team. Or rather, it was one player. The ace of the top team in the prefecture. A powerhouse, whose presence alone struck fear in the hearts of his opponents.

Of course. I’m talking about Ushijima Wakatoshi.

No. No. No no no. 

Ushijima is NOT boring. Jiren was boring. Not just boring. This guy literally put me to sleep.

But then again he also gave us one of the best moments in Super.

Unlike Jiren, Ushijima actually has a personality, but it’s actually his team’s philosophy that makes them, and by extension, Ushijima, such a great antagonist.

Volleyball is a battle.

It’s a simple philosophy, one built on power and height, and it sharply contrasts the qualities of our protagonists. 

Karasuno play with speed, creativity, and time differentials. But Shiratorizawa are different. They have a diamond.

Ushijima wields absolute power. And it’s because of this, that the entire Shiratorizawa team is built around him. He is the textbook definition of the perfect ace. He’s reliable. 

We’re introduced to Ushijima early on in the story, with the main cast in awe that he was able to make the U20’s National Team at such a young age. And as luck would have it, a certain two idiots run into him while out jogging.

This is the first time we see anyone interact with Ushijima, and we learn that… he’s kind of a prick. Except, that’s not quite true, is it?

The truth is, there’s no malice behind any of Ushijima’s insults. He’s quite literally just stating facts. Albeit, really, really, really bluntly.

He’s not very expressive, has very few flaws, and is rather stoic. But that’s what’s so perfect about him. Unlike Oikawa, who’s rather… well… you know?

Ushijima is the complete opposite. He’s simple.

Of course, there’s a lot more to Ushijima than just this. We learn a lot about his past through flashbacks of him with his father.

And as great as this moment is, it isn’t what makes him such an amazing antagonist. What makes him such a great end goal is the effect he has on our main cast.

This meeting here, the insults and the declaration of war that followed, are a massive reason for Hinata and Kageyama’s growth. It’s not out of personal animosity, but rather his honest opinion - an unyielding belief in the strength of his team.

This dismissiveness is what ignites the flame in Karasuno, driving them to prove their worth. Ushijima’s formidable power and stoic demeanour push Karasuno to their limits, forcing them to dig deeper, adapt, and evolve. They rise to his challenge, and through their trials, they grow. 

The opening for the season literally portrays Ushijima as a mountain, a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. I mean what more proof do you need?

And this is all without even getting into the final match. A game so good, that they dedicated an entire season to it.

Just think about what you see here. Hinata’s declaration of war, Nishinoya’s persistence, the third year’s giving it all for what could be their final ever game, and the greatest moment of the season… 

All of this, all of these moments are in response to pure, unadulterated strength.

These moments would not have been the same if it were not for the utterly perfect writing that went into crafting one of the most impressive characters in the whole show.

Ushijima is a force of nature. His sheer presence brings out the best in our protagonists. He’s strong, powerful, intelligent, athletic, and has seemingly limitless stamina.

He is exactly what this story needed and more.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

- love ya

[animemocha]

Another cute lil thumbnail for my Haikyuu vid on the big man himself, Ushijima Wakatoshi.

[animemocha]

Tobio Kageyama: The King of the Court (Essay)

One of the most exciting concepts in Haikyuu is something set up in its 4th season. The concept that certain athletes are just born to play volleyball. Players that feel like they need to be on the court just to survive. The concept of the monster generation.

Of the 6 members of the monster generation, one stands out in particular. A player of unmatched skill, but also someone who fails to treat others with any respect. A player that is shunned by his own team.

Tobio Kageyama is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in Haikyuu, and yet despite his immense skill, we’re reminded time and time again of his shortcomings, of his failure.

So what happens when this tyrant king is dethroned? Does he crumble under defeat, or rise again transformed?

Wait wait wait wait wait. Let’s quickly get something out of the way because it will save me so much wo- I mean because it’s important to the story! Yeah… Let’s go with that.

The words “Genius” and “Monster”.

According to the show, a “Genius” is someone born with a supreme talent for volleyball.

A “Monster” is someone that realises this talent to become a truly world-class player.

Therefore the “Monster Generation” is a collection of these world-class players.

Now then, is Kageyma a genius?

Yes. Without a doubt.

But is he a monster? Welllllll… That’s a tough one. Because he has so so so many flaws.

His journey doesn’t start off on the best path. He had extraordinary talent yes, but lacked a crucial skill that any player needs to be truly great. A skill that’s honestly really basic.

Teamwork.

Volleyball is played with seven players. Good teamwork isn’t optional, it's a necessity. So how can anyone be a genius without this skill? Are we looking at a failed setter in the making? Or the early stages of a monster?

Part I - The Tyrant

Kageyama’s nickname, “King of the Court”, wasn’t just a title. It was a testament to his relentless pursuit of victory, even at the expense of team harmony. 

But what does “King of the Court” mean exactly?

Sure, we know it was given to him because he played volleyball like a tyrant. Where his obsession with winning overshadowed his responsibilities to his teammates. A style of play that said, “It’s about me”.

Let’s compare Kageyam’s initial phase with his old teammate, and current captain of Aoba Johsai, Oikawa Tooru. 

Oikawa, with his charismatic leadership and empathetic setting style, seems to embody the ideal setter. And yet, he himself admits to feeling threatened by Kageyama’s sheer talent. Interesting, isn’t it?

Despite being on a team with a player like this, Kageyama could not have been more different. He constantly berated his teammates for not living up to his standards and for not keeping up with him, which lead to him being given the infamous nickname.

He was a tyrannical, egocentric king, who would never settle for anything less than perfection from his teammates, and who disregarded anyone that wasn’t able to keep up with him.

But I mean, be honest. If you were by far the best in your team and everyone around you was dog poo by comparison, you’d get pretty annoyed too.

And you can probably guess what happened next. His teammates lost faith in him and his coaches lamented his wasted potential.

So what did Kageyma do?

Well, he did what any twelve-year-old would do. He never wanted to feel that way again, so after joining Karasuno, he changed.

Part II - The Servant

Kageyama never wanted to feel lonely again. And, he didn’t.

He wanted to make sure his teammates were always there for him. And, they were.

Karasuno are without a doubt the perfect team for Kageyma. They tought him the importance of team work. He learnt to let go of his ego. He became someone that rarely ever criticised his team, giving them the exact sets they wanted.

He did his best to perfect a new quick. Yes, he did it so that he could improve. But he also did it to help his team, to help Hinata. 

So how did he do this exactly? How did he learn to be a more selfless setter?

Well, he went to the person, who in his mind, was already a perfect example of that ideal. 

After this meeting. Kageyama gets a new philosophy.

He learns that he is there in service for his team, not the other way around. It’s his duty to give his teammates the exact sets that they ask for.

He becomes a selfless setter.

Surely that’s a good thing, right?

Well, Kageyama definitely thought so. But that all changed during a certain training camp where he met a certain player.

Atsumu is one of the best high-school setters in the country, and Kageyama knows this. So what does it mean for him, when Atsumu tells him that everything he has been doing is wrong?

Does this mean he’s still a failure? 

This dilemma nags at Kageyama. He’s just been playing with some of the best players in the country, and when he returns to Karasuno, while his teammates are certainly good, there is an obvious difference, and Kageyama notices this, and eventually, he snaps.

Part III - The True King

The problem with what Kageyama has been doing up until now is that he was so afraid of history repeating itself, that he overcompensated. 

He always gave his teammates the exact sets that they wanted, and in doing so, reinforced their bad habits.

He knew he could push them higher, push them further, push them to be better, but that scared him. What if they hated him for it?

And that was his dilemma.

He wants to win, not just for himself, but for his team too. But how does he do this? What if he ended up becoming the old tyrannical king again?

Fortunately for Kageyama, there was someone on the team that knew the value of the King of the Court.

Kageyama had always been egotistical and prideful. But that’s just the nature of a talented athlete. Unfortunately for him, his communication was poor, and it resulted in a rather traumatic past.

But at Karasuno, he was given the greatest weapon a setter could ask for. Not a super fast decoy, or a powerful spiker, or an amazing libero.

What he found at Karasuno was a team that supports him, one that will make sure he was never alone.

Conclusion

So, the question remains, is Kageyama a failed setter?

Well, the answer is not too different from real life.

Humans make mistakes. That’s a given. What’s important is how we learn from them.

In the same way, perhaps Kageyama’s journey to becoming a successful setter is paved with lessons learned from his failures. Perhaps being a so-called “failed setter” is a necessary step towards greatness.

There’s no doubt that Hinata wouldn’t be the player he is without Kageyama. But I’d argue the opposite is also true.

Hinata teaches Kageyama that what he’s been ashamed of, can be something that he can be proud of.

He learns that there will always be mistakes and setbacks, but his teammates will always support him.

And so, he knows exactly the kind of setter he needs to be. It might not be what works for Oikawa, and it might not even be what works for Atsumu.

But, for him, it’s perfect.

And with this, Kageyama goes from a tyrant, to a servant, to a king at last.

psst... if you liked this essay, check out the full video essay on my youtube channel!

- love ya

[animemocha]

little thumbnail I made for my Haikyuu vid on Kageyama