Gabi vs Eren: A Comparative Analysis of Determined Warriors in Attack on Titan

In the popular manga and anime series Attack on Titan, two of the most iconic characters, Gabi Braun and Eren Yeager, share several thematic and narrative parallels. However, their journeys and approaches to conflict markedly diverge. This article delves into the similarities and differences between these determined warriors.

Shared Themes: Strong Determination, Tragic Backgrounds, and Moral Ambiguity

Both Gabi and Eren Yeager exhibit strong determination and unwavering commitment to their beliefs. Their protagonism is driven by a desire to fight for what they believe in. However, their paths to this commitment, as well as the specific causes they fight for, highlight significant differences.

Strong Determination

Gabi Braun and Eren Yeager both demonstrate a relentless drive to achieve their goals. Gabi is fiercely committed to her duty as a warrior and the cause of Marley, much like Eren’s initial dedication to his mission to kill Titans. This shared determination is not only a result of their personalities but also of their experiences with loss and trauma.

Tragic Backgrounds

Both characters have experienced significant loss and trauma that influence their actions. Eren’s traumatic experiences with the Titans and the death of his mother shape his worldview, while Gabi’s involvement in the war and the loss of her friends drive her motivations.

Moral Ambiguity

Despite their strong convictions, both characters engage in morally complex actions that challenge traditional notions of right and wrong. As the series progresses, Eren’s choices become increasingly questionable, and Gabi, as well, grapples with the morality of her actions, especially after the tragic killing of Sasha.

Differences: Perspective, Growth, Motivation, and Role in the Story

While Gabi and Eren share some thematic elements in their stories, their character development and the ideologies they represent diverge significantly. These differences are nuanced and highlight their distinct journeys within the narrative.

Perspective and Growth

Eren’s character evolves from an idealistic youth to a more morally ambiguous figure, ultimately becoming a figure of contention for many. In contrast, Gabi is initially portrayed as a dedicated warrior but begins to question her beliefs and the cycle of hatred, hinting at a potential for growth and change. While Eren’s transformation is marked by a shift in his moral stance, Gabi’s journey reflects a struggle with the consequences of war and the desire to humanize those on the other side, particularly after interactions with characters like Falco and the surviving members of Paradis.

Motivation and Ideology

Eren's motivations become increasingly driven by a desire for freedom, often at any cost. His actions and choices are rooted in a more fundamental basis of respect for other people's freedoms. At the age of 8, Eren killed a Titan mercilessly, demonstrating a brutal understanding of the cost of freedom. He later comes to understand the complex nature of the conflict, empathizing with Marleyans and Marley-Eldians. Gabi, on the other hand, is fully indoctrinated and lacks empathy, seeing no issue with killing and viewing Marley as a good that justifies the genocidal cause.

Role in the Story

Eren is the protagonist and the driving force of the narrative. Gabi serves as a foil and a new generation's perspective on the ongoing conflict. Her character development is more reflective of the themes of understanding and reconciliation. Gabi’s role is to challenge the established narrative and add a layer of complexity to the moral ambiguity of the story.

Conclusion

While Gabi and Eren share thematic elements such as determination and the influence of tragic experiences, their paths to these qualities and their subsequent journeys are vastly different. Gabi, with her lack of empathy and indoctrination, represents a stark contrast to Eren's evolving moral perspective and the struggle for mutual understanding. Understanding these differences provides a deeper insight into the complex world of Attack on Titan.