Attack On Titan What If Eren Was A Marleyan Hero Fanfic
Have you ever wondered what would happen if Eren Yeager, the protagonist of Attack on Titan, was seen as a hero by Marley? This is the fascinating premise explored in numerous fanfictions within the Attack on Titan fandom. These stories often delve into alternate universes where Eren, for various reasons, finds himself in the position of pretending to be a Marleyan, or perhaps even genuinely believing in their cause at first. This twist in perspective opens up a wealth of narrative possibilities, allowing authors to explore themes of identity, propaganda, and the complexities of war from a fresh angle. Let's dive into the captivating world of Attack on Titan fanfiction where Eren becomes a Marleyan hero.
The Allure of Alternate Universes
Fanfiction, at its core, is about exploring "what if" scenarios. The Attack on Titan universe, with its intricate political landscape and morally grey characters, provides fertile ground for such explorations. The idea of Eren, the symbol of Paradis Island's rebellion, becoming a hero for Marley is inherently intriguing. It challenges our understanding of his character and forces us to consider the nuances of the conflict. Why would Eren do this? What are his motivations? How does this affect the other characters and the overall storyline? These are just some of the questions that these fanfics attempt to answer. For fans, these stories provide a compelling escape, allowing them to engage with their favorite characters in new and exciting ways, free from the constraints of the original canon. They also serve as a creative outlet for writers to explore complex themes and character dynamics, all within the established framework of the Attack on Titan world. The beauty of fanfiction lies in its limitless potential to reimagine familiar narratives, offering fresh perspectives and challenging pre-conceived notions about characters and plotlines.
Exploring the "What If" Scenarios
The appeal of this particular trope stems from several factors. Firstly, it provides a compelling character study of Eren. In the original story, Eren's motivations are often driven by a desire for freedom and revenge against the Titans. But what if his experiences and circumstances led him down a different path? What if he saw Marley as the victim, or believed that cooperating with them was the only way to achieve his goals? Secondly, these stories allow authors to explore the complexities of the Attack on Titan world from a different perspective. By placing Eren within Marleyan society, they can shed light on the motivations and ideologies of the Marleyans, humanizing them beyond their role as antagonists. This can lead to a more nuanced understanding of the conflict between Paradis and Marley, highlighting the cyclical nature of hatred and violence. Finally, these fanfics offer exciting opportunities for dramatic tension and plot twists. Eren's deception, or his genuine conversion to the Marleyan cause, creates inherent conflict and suspense. How long can he maintain his facade? Will his true identity be revealed? How will his former comrades react? These are the questions that keep readers hooked.
Common Themes and Tropes
Several recurring themes and tropes emerge in these types of Attack on Titan fanfics. One common trope is the amnesiac Eren, where he loses his memories and is found by Marleyan soldiers, who then raise him as one of their own. This allows for a gradual exploration of his character, as he grapples with his identity and the conflicting loyalties that arise when fragments of his past begin to resurface. Another popular trope involves Eren infiltrating Marley as a spy, tasked with gathering information or sabotaging their war efforts. This scenario often involves intricate plots, close calls, and the constant threat of exposure, creating a thrilling narrative. A darker variation explores the idea of Eren genuinely believing in the Marleyan cause, perhaps through indoctrination or a twisted sense of justice. This raises complex ethical questions about the nature of good and evil, and the dangers of propaganda. These fanfics often delve into the psychological toll on Eren, as he struggles to reconcile his beliefs with his past actions and relationships.
The Weight of Deception
The theme of deception is central to many of these stories. Eren, pretending to be someone he is not, carries a heavy burden. He must constantly be vigilant, careful not to reveal his true identity or intentions. This can lead to internal conflict and emotional strain, as he is forced to suppress his true feelings and betray the trust of those around him. The reader is often privy to Eren's inner thoughts, creating dramatic irony and suspense. We know his true allegiance, even if the characters in the story do not. This allows us to empathize with his struggles and anticipate the potential consequences of his actions. The question of whether the ends justify the means is often raised, as Eren's deception, even if intended for a greater good, can have devastating consequences for those he deceives. The ethical complexities of espionage and the psychological toll of living a lie are frequently explored, adding depth and nuance to the narrative.
Popular Fanfiction Examples
While I cannot provide specific examples of fanfiction due to the dynamic nature of online content and the potential for mature themes, a quick search on popular fanfiction websites using keywords like "Eren Marley" or "Eren Marleyan Hero" will yield a plethora of results. These stories range in length and tone, from short one-shots to epic multi-chapter sagas. Some are lighthearted and humorous, while others delve into darker and more complex themes. Readers can often find summaries or tags that indicate the content and tone of the story, allowing them to choose stories that align with their preferences. Remember to always be mindful of content warnings and ratings when exploring fanfiction, as some stories may contain mature themes or content that some readers may find disturbing.
Finding Your Next Read
To find your next favorite Attack on Titan fanfic where Eren is a Marleyan hero, start by exploring popular fanfiction platforms like Archive of Our Own (AO3) or Fanfiction.net. Use the search function and try variations of keywords like "Eren Marley," "Eren Marleyan," "Eren Jaeger Marley," or "Attack on Titan Marley AU." You can also filter your search by rating, word count, and language to narrow down the results. Pay attention to the summaries and tags provided by the authors, as they often give a good indication of the story's plot, themes, and potential trigger warnings. Don't be afraid to try different authors and stories to find the ones that resonate with you the most. Fanfiction is a vast and diverse landscape, and there's something for everyone.
Why This Trope Resonates with Fans
Ultimately, the popularity of this trope speaks to the complex nature of the Attack on Titan narrative. The series challenges viewers to question their allegiances and consider the perspectives of all sides in a conflict. By placing Eren, the series' protagonist, in the role of a Marleyan hero, these fanfics push those boundaries even further. They force us to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of war, the power of propaganda, and the complexities of identity. This exploration of moral ambiguity is what makes these stories so compelling. It's not just about good versus evil; it's about understanding the motivations and circumstances that drive individuals to make difficult choices. The Attack on Titan universe is not a black-and-white world, and these fanfics embrace that complexity, offering readers a richer and more nuanced understanding of the characters and the world they inhabit.
The Enduring Appeal of Character Exploration
Beyond the thematic depth, the appeal of this trope also lies in its potential for character development. Eren, in these scenarios, is often forced to confront his own biases and beliefs. He may develop genuine relationships with Marleyan characters, leading to internal conflict and difficult choices. His transformation into a Marleyan hero can be a catalyst for significant personal growth, as he learns to navigate a new culture and a different set of values. This exploration of character arcs and emotional journeys is a key element in the success of these fanfics. Readers become invested in Eren's journey, eager to see how he will evolve and what choices he will make. The emotional stakes are high, and the potential for both triumph and tragedy is ever-present, making these stories incredibly captivating.
In conclusion, the Attack on Titan fanfiction trope of Eren pretending to be a Marleyan and being seen as a hero is a fascinating exploration of identity, conflict, and the human condition. It allows authors and readers alike to delve deeper into the complexities of the Attack on Titan universe and challenge their own perspectives. So, if you're looking for a thought-provoking and engaging read, dive into the world of Eren the Marleyan hero – you might be surprised by what you discover!
