Understanding Eren and Historia's Relationship in Attack on Titan

While Eren and Mikasa's connection took center stage in Attack on Titan, Eren and Historia's bond held its own intrigue.
Understanding Eren and Historia's Relationship in Attack on Titan

Highlights

  • Historia's initial portrayal as the 'ideal waifu' was a façade, hiding her true self and intentions.
  • The relationship between Historia and Eren is complex, focusing on their personal growth and choices rather than romance.
  • Historia's pregnancy sparked debate among fans, but the revelation of the father emphasized her agency and independence.

At first known as 'Krista Lenz', Historia projected the image of the perfect 'waifu' – selfless and accommodating. However, it later emerged that this persona was a charade, crafted to appease others, a fact noticed by Ymir.

Eren, too, recognized this facade and encouraged Historia to be authentic. Following Ymir's demise, Historia prioritized her own well-being. Although many fans speculated about a potential romance between them, their connection was far more intricate.

Two Distinct Paths

Initially, Eren and Historia had limited interaction until Eren's abduction by Rod Reiss in season 3. Upon learning that his father was responsible for Historia's family's demise, Eren, burdened by guilt, urged her to transform into a Titan and consume him as instructed by her father. However, recalling her pledge to Ymir, she defied this, choosing to liberate Eren. Despite initial objections, she reminded him that he controls his own destiny and shouldn't act out of guilt, echoing his earlier advice.

Subsequently, with the Survey Corps' backing, Historia ascended to the throne, earning respect, particularly from Eren. Given her royal lineage and Eren's prominence, many anticipated a relationship mirroring Grisha and Dina's, hinting at Eren following his father's footsteps.

The Pregnancy Saga

In season 4, to counter Zeke's plan, Historia agreed to become the new Beast Titan vessel and consume Zeke. Despite resolving the immediate threat, this would curtail her life and perpetuate the royal family's curse. Eren, having foreseen the future and seeking to avert further losses, opposed this course of action.

Upon learning of Marley's impending assault and Historia's involvement from Yelena, Eren divulged his Rumbling strategy and the intel received. Distressed by this knowledge, Historia, with no alternative, proposed bearing a child to delay consuming Zeke.

Subsequently, speculation arose regarding Eren's paternity, with some interpreting his interactions as indicative of a clandestine relationship. This sparked fervent debate among enthusiasts, with interpretations varying widely. Ultimately, it was disclosed that Historia had chosen 'The Farmer', a figure from her past seeking redemption, as the father. Despite ongoing conjecture, subsequent events reinforced her agency. The series' conclusion led to discussions about Eren being deliberately misportrayed, heightening the impact of his love confession to Mikasa.

Some characters, including Levi, questioned the timing of her pregnancy and her sudden affection. Nevertheless, the official guidebook confirmed The Farmer as the biological father, with the child's appearance in the anime not resembling Eren. While some felt this resolution was lackluster, others appreciated its focus on Historia's agency and decisions.

Fact or Fiction?

An early draft depicted Eren rescuing Historia, and interviews hinted at her significance to Eren's development. However, side content often parodied their relationship, leading to misconceptions about their intended connection. Despite their close bond, Eren and Historia diverged from their parents' paths, making independent choices. Ultimately, Eren secured transient peace for his comrades, while Historia became a mother in a Titan-free world.