Attack on Titan, an anime series based on the manga by Hajime Isayama, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Since its debut in 2013, it has redefined the modern anime landscape with its gripping storyline, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. One of the most crucial and defining parts of the series is Season 3, which played a monumental role in advancing both the narrative and the world-building of this dark, dystopian universe.
This article will delve into Season 3 of Attack on Titan, examining its plot, character development, themes, and impact on both the series and the anime community. From the political intrigue in the first half to the high-octane battles in the second half, this season showcases some of the most significant events in the series, and sets the stage for its dramatic conclusion. We will also touch on fan reactions, production insights, and how the season aligns with the overall arc of the anime.
An Overview of Attack on Titan Season 3
When Was Attack on Titan Season 3 Released?
Season 3 of Attack on Titan was split into two parts:
Part 1 began airing in August 2018 and ran until October 2018 with a total of 12 episodes.
Part 2 followed in April 2019, airing from April to June, with another 10 episodes.
The split of the season was done to ensure the creators had enough time to deliver a quality adaptation of the manga’s content, which was becoming more intricate and action-packed.
What Sets Season 3 Apart?
What makes Attack on Titan Season 3 stand out is its major shift in tone and narrative focus. While earlier seasons were dominated by the mysterious Titans and the battle for humanity’s survival, Season 3 delves deeper into political intrigue, character backstories, and the mysteries surrounding the world beyond the Walls. The first half is largely driven by political conflict and the power struggle within Humanity’s government, while the second half is more action-heavy, bringing the season to a thrilling and emotionally charged climax.
Season 3 Part 1: Politics, Conspiracy, and the Rise of New Leaders
The Fall of the Corrupt Government
The first part of Season 3 takes a sharp departure from the action-heavy themes of the previous seasons and introduces political maneuvering within the government. The military police and the nobility are portrayed as corrupt forces maintaining control of humanity through fear and manipulation. The survey corps, led by Erwin Smith, has long been an obstacle to these power-hungry groups.
The first few episodes of Season 3 focus on a rebellion to overthrow the oppressive government system. The Survey Corps—especially Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert—becomes central to this fight, aligning themselves with Historia Reiss, who reveals herself to be the true heir to the throne. Historia’s true identity brings an even more complex dynamic to the political struggle, as she is thrust into the role of a potential ruler.
The rebellion against the monarchy and military police serves as a precursor to the much larger conflicts and revelations in the later parts of the series. Fans who had grown accustomed to fighting the Titans were faced with a different kind of battle — one that explored human ambition, corruption, and power.
The Revelation of Historia’s True Identity
One of the most important developments in this part of the season is Historia’s backstory. Until now, she was known only as Krista Lenz, a member of the Survey Corps. In the first few episodes of Season 3, it is revealed that Krista is, in fact, the true Historia Reiss, the heir to the throne of the royal family. This revelation opens up a new realm of political intrigue as Historia becomes a key player in the battle for the future of humanity.
This arc also explores the Reiss family’s role in controlling the truth about the Titans and the history of the Walls, adding more complexity to the show’s lore. The story shifts focus to the Reiss family and their role in manipulating history and the population, which is a central theme in the series’ exploration of truth versus deception.
The Plot with the Traitors: The Struggle with the Military Police
The plot takes several dramatic turns as the characters find themselves not only fighting Titans but also contending with internal enemies. One of the key moments is when Levi Ackerman, one of the series’ fan-favorite characters, takes on the task of eliminating internal threats, including a group of traitors within the military police. These rogue individuals are involved in the kidnapping of Historia, which sets the stage for some intense confrontations and reveals the deeper conspiracy.
Levi’s Backstory and Character Development
As one of the most beloved characters in the series, Levi Ackerman’s backstory is explored more in-depth during the first part of Season 3. His complex past is revealed through his relationships with those around him, and his struggles with authority and personal loss are shown through the lens of his role within the Survey Corps.
Levi’s ability to blend emotional depth with his stoic and deadly demeanor continues to captivate audiences, and his leadership abilities shine through as he leads his team through difficult, high-stakes scenarios.
Season 3 Part 2: The Battle for Humanity’s Future
Eren’s Titan Powers and the Truth Behind the Walls
The second part of Season 3 is marked by a shift in focus back to Titan battles, but with far more intensity and emotion. The stakes have been raised significantly with the knowledge of the “Coordinate” power that Eren holds. This ability to control Titans and influence the flow of battle becomes a critical factor in the conflict with the Marleyan military, who hold crucial knowledge about the origins of the Titans and humanity’s fate.
The revelations continue as Eren and his comrades make their way toward uncovering the truth about the Titans, the origin of the Walls, and the world beyond the Walls. The mysterious truth about humanity’s confinement within the Walls is uncovered, and the tension between Eren and his team grows as they uncover secrets that shake the very foundation of their world.
The Return of the Armored, Colossal, and Beast Titans
In the final episodes of Season 3, fans are treated to the long-awaited return of the Armored Titan, Colossal Titan, and Beast Titan, leading to one of the most epic confrontations in the series. These Titans represent a significant force in the ongoing battle for survival, and their return escalates the conflict in a way that sets the stage for future battles.
The battle for Shiganshina, the city where the core of the conflict takes place, is a critical moment in Season 3. This marks a turning point in the battle for humanity’s survival, as the Survey Corps faces off against the enemy Titans and pushes toward reclaiming their homeland.
Erwin’s Last Stand: A Hero’s Sacrifice
The climax of Season 3, and one of its most emotional moments, comes with the final battle at Shiganshina District. Here, Erwin Smith, the charismatic and strategic leader of the Survey Corps, makes a monumental sacrifice to give humanity a fighting chance. Erwin’s decision to lead a charge directly into enemy fire is one of the most iconic moments in the series, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the cause and his belief in humanity’s potential.
Erwin’s death deeply affects the characters, especially Levi, who is forced to make a devastating choice between saving Erwin and saving Armin. This sequence demonstrates the complexity of human emotion, loyalty, and sacrifice. It marks one of the series’ darkest moments but also serves as a testament to the strength of character and the high stakes that define the story.
FAQs
What is the plot of “Attack on Titan” Season 3?
Attack on Titan’s third season is divided into two halves.The first part focuses on the political turmoil within humanity’s last bastion of survival—Wall Sina. As the Survey Corps uncovers deeper conspiracies, they confront the corrupt government and military police that have been controlling the citizens for years. The second part shifts to a more direct confrontation with the Titans, revealing significant truths about the history of the Titans and the world outside the walls. The season deepens the mystery behind the Titans and showcases intense battles, especially the conflict with the Beast Titan and the final fight for the Walls.
What happens in Part 1 of Season 3?
Part 1 of Season 3 centers on the fall of the corrupt regime within the Walls. The Scout Regiment, led by Eren, Levi, and Historia, seeks to uncover the truth behind the government’s deceit and restore justice. The first part also focuses on the conflict with the Military Police and the discovery of the true royal family. A major revelation is the emergence of Historia as the true heir to the throne, and the arc deals heavily with the political intrigue, with Eren and his comrades fighting against both Titans and human enemies.
What happens in Part 2 of Season 3?
Part 2 of Season 3 takes a much darker turn, focusing on the intense battles against the Titans and the shocking revelation of their origins. It explores the origins of the Titan shifters and reveals the history behind the Walls and the secret of Eren’s power. The second part concludes with a high-stakes battle against the Titans in a war that involves not only the human race but also those within the Walls, including Reiner, Bertholdt, and the Beast Titan. The stakes are raised as humanity fights for survival and uncovers dark truths.
How does the character of Historia evolve in Season 3?
Historia plays a central role in Season 3, particularly in Part 1, where she is revealed to be the true heir to the royal family. Her character undergoes significant growth as she grapples with her identity and her duties. She transitions from a shy, seemingly weak character into a strong and decisive leader who takes her rightful place as queen. Her relationship with Eren and the others also develops, and she finds her own sense of purpose within the conflict.
What is the significance of the Beast Titan in Season 3?
The Beast Titan is a mysterious and formidable figure in Attack on Titan, and in Season 3, his true identity and motives are revealed. The Beast Titan is revealed to be Zeke Yeager, Eren’s half-brother, who plays a crucial role in the conflict between the Titans and humanity. Zeke’s actions and his loyalty to the forces outside the Walls introduce a new layer of complexity to the series, as he pushes humanity to the brink of destruction. His presence in the second part of Season 3 sets up major events that will shape the series’ future.
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