Levi's Choice: The Revival of Armin Over Erwin in 'Attack on Titan'

Why did Levi choose to revive Armin over Erwin in 'Attack on Titan'? This question has puzzled many fans. The decision was not merely about which character had more potential for future storylines. It was a deeply personal and philosophical choice driven by multiple factors.

The Core Reasons Behind Levi's Decision

There were various factors at play, but the main reason Levi chose Armin over Erwin is easier to unpack:

Levi's Belief in Erwin's Right to Rest: Before Erwin's fateful battle with the Beast Titan, he talks with Levi about the countless souls he has lost for his dream. Levi recognizes the weight of Erwin's sacrifice and guilt. After Erwin smiles peacefully, resigned to his fate, Levi respects his choice and decides not to revive him. Levi's Ironically Flawed Decision-Making Process: Levi actually wanted to revive Erwin, but due to a misunderstanding, he believed Erwin had chosen Armin over him. This misunderstanding led to Armin being the first choice.

Season 4 Part 2: Justifying Levi's Decision

Attack on Titan''s Season 4, Part 2, justifies Levi's controversial decision to revive Armin over Erwin. During the climactic clash, both Armin Arlert and Survey Corps commander Erwin Smith were critically injured. With only one dose of transformation serum left, Levi had to decide:

Erwin's Brazen Attempt: Erwin, having a memory from his school days, slaps the syringe out of Levi's hand, attempting to save himself. This scene highlights Erwin's determination and loyalty. Levi's choice of Intellect Over Leadership: Levi chose Armin, valuing his intellect and importance to the future. Armin's role as a scholar and thinker is crucial to the group's success.

Levi's decision was not without controversy. Many characters, including Armin himself, questioned the wisdom of this choice. Since the fateful battle, the Survey Corps has struggled without their fearless leader. Levi's choice to place more value on Armin and the future rather than Erwin's leadership and determination made sense in the grand scheme of things.

The Aftermath: A New Paradis

When Attack on Titan's Season 4, Part 2 commences, the Paradis Islands military has been usurped by Eren Jaegerists, and Armin and his friends are imprisoned. Meanwhile, Eren runs rampant outside, fending off a Marleyan invasion. This scenario underscores why Levi chose Armin: In a world of chaos, Armin's intellect and strategic thinking are more critical than Erwin's leadership.

Levi's decision to revive Armin over Erwin, while unconventional, was deeply thoughtful and reflective of the complex moral and strategic considerations at play in the world of 'Attack on Titan'. Levi's choice demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the characters' roles and the future needs of the Survey Corps.