The Nuances Behind ‘Attack on Titans’ vs. ‘Attack on Titan’

Many enthusiasts and fans can’t seem to differentiate between ‘Attack on Titans’ and ‘Attack on Titan’. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but understanding the origins and meanings behind these titles can provide a deeper appreciation for the Shingeki no Kyojin ( DataManager: The original title is 'Shingeki no Kyojin' in Japanese, meaning 'Attack on Titan') series.

Shingeki no Kyojin: The Original Title

The series is actually titled Shingeki no Kyojin. In Japanese, this translates to ‘Attack on Titan’. This original title was chosen by the series creator, Hajime Isayama, and he had specific reasons for this decision.

The Attack Titan is named for its spirit of defiance and resistance. It embodies the idea that even when faced with overwhelming odds, one can still choose to fight back and take action. The Titan is seen as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to stand up against oppression and injustice. It represents the human desire for freedom and the will to fight for what is right, regardless of the cost.

The Creator's Decision

Isayama initially wanted to name the series after Eren Yeager, who holds the Attack Titan. However, he felt the term “Attack Titan” didn’t have a strong enough ring to it and opted for a play on words. This resulted in a title that resonated better in English and around the world: ‘Attack on Titan’.

The name ‘Attack on Titan’ has a deeper meaning. While it may appear to simulate a direct attack, it reflects the overall context of the story. The Eldians (DataManager: The series' protagonists, a human race in a world of colossal human-like creatures called Titans) are titans themselves, capable of transforming into giant beings. Their world is out to kill them, making the title “Attack on Titan” a fitting and evocative moniker.

Japanese and English Titles

Interestingly, the original Japanese title, Shingeki no Kyojin, translates to ‘Attack of the Giants’ in English. However, the creators decided to go with the alternate title for its simplicity and better fit in the English-speaking market.

The Mythological Significance

The term Titan has deeper roots in mythology. In Greek mythology, the Titans were giants who arose before the Olympian gods like Zeus and Hera. The name Titan also refers to the second-largest moon in our solar system, symbolizing a last hope for humanity.

In the context of the series, the Titans are the descendants of the first gods, representing a primal struggle between humans and their own evolved forms. Titans were once human, a throwback to a time before the gods. The story explores this evolution and the conflict between old and new powers in a way that resonates deeply with fans of the genre.

Understanding this context can help appreciate the nuances in the title and the rich mythology behind the series. Whether it’s called ‘Attack on Titans’ or ‘Attack on Titan’, it’s the depth of the story that truly captivates the audience.