Why Did Eren Start the Rumbling?

The Rumbling is the most devastating event in Attack on Titan history. Eren’s decision to activate it has sparked endless debate among fans. Let’s break down his motivations.

The Short Answer

Eren started the Rumbling because he believed it was the only way to ensure the survival of Paradis Island and its people. He chose to become the “villain” to protect his home.

The Long Answer

1. The World’s Hatred

The world outside the walls hated Eldians. The Marleyans, the majority of the world’s population, saw Eldians as demons who deserved death.

• Punishment for history: The world blamed Eldians for the crimes of their ancestors
• Fear of the Founding Titan: Nations feared Paradis Island’s power
• No path to peace: Diplomacy was impossible when the world wanted Paradis destroyed

2. Zeke’s Plan Was Unacceptable

Zeke’s plan was to sterilize all Eldians, ensuring the end of the Eldian race. Eren saw this as genocide:

• Zeke’s plan: “Euthanasia” of all Eldians
• Eren’s perspective: A slow, cruel death for his people
• The problem: It would end Eldian existence without violence

3. The Need for Freedom

Eren’s core motivation has always been freedom:

• Childhood dream: To see the outside world freely
• The ocean: He saw the ocean as a symbol of freedom
• The truth: The outside world was not what he dreamed

4. The Attack Titan’s Influence

The Attack Titan’s power to see the future influenced Eren:

• Predestination: Eren saw the future where the Rumbling occurred
• The burden: He knew what he had to do
• Acceptance: He accepted his role in the cycle of violence

5. Protecting His Friends

Eren’s deepest motivation was protecting his friends:

• Mikasa and Armin: He wanted them to live long lives
• The Survey Corps: He wanted his comrades to survive
• The cost: He knew he would become the villain

The Consequences

What Eren Accomplished

• The destruction of 80% of humanity: The world’s armies were destroyed
• The end of the Titan curse: The source of Ymir’s power was removed
• A chance for peace: The remaining 20% of humanity saw the devastation

What He Lost

• His humanity: He became a monster
• His friends: He alienated the people he loved
• His life: He was killed by Mikasa

Was It Justified?

This is the question that divides fans. Some argue:

• For the Rumbling: It was the only way to save Paradis
• Against the Rumbling: Genocide is never justified
• The middle ground: Eren could have chosen differently

The Author’s Intent

Hajime Isayama’s message is that violence only breeds more violence. Eren’s solution was extreme, but he represented the failure of diplomacy and understanding.

Conclusion

Eren started the Rumbling because he believed it was the only way to protect his people. His choice, while horrific, came from a place of desperation and love for his home.

Keywords: Eren Yeager, The Rumbling, Attack on Titan, Explained, Ending