The Royal Line and the First King's Ideology: Why Can't They Save Humanity from the Titans?

The ability of the royal line to control the Founding Titan is a central theme in The Governance of Regal Powers. Yet, despite this power, the royal line often fails to act against the Titans and save humanity from their threat. This essay explores the ideological reasons behind this inaction, particularly focusing on the will of the First King, Karl Fritz.

The Royal Line and the Founding Titan's Power

Members of the royal family possess the Founding Titan, a powerful ability that grants them control over Titans and manipulate memories. However, the full potential of this power is constrained by the will of the First King. The First King, Karl Fritz, made significant ideological decisions that have shaped the actions of the royal line and Paradis Island.

The Will of the First King

Driven by a desire to end the cycle of hatred and suffering caused by conflict, Karl Fritz chose to isolate and protect the Eldians. His belief was rooted in the idea that war and suffering could only be ended by renouncing conflict and living in peace, even if it meant sacrificing their freedom. This decision reflects the First King's unwavering commitment to peace over all else.

Inability to Save Humanity

Because of the First King's philosophy, members of the royal line, particularly those who inherit the Founding Titan, are often unable or unwilling to actively fight against the Titans or risk extending their protection beyond Paradis Island. The power of the Founding Titan can only be fully utilized by individuals of royal blood, and their actions are heavily influenced by the First King's will, which promotes passivity. The royal line's preference for peace aligns closely with the First King's vision of isolation and non-involvement.

Characters Challenging the Ideology

Characters such as Eren Yeager challenge the first king's ideology by seeking to break free from the constraints imposed by the Founding Titan's limitations. Eren's actions represent a desire to change the fate of the Eldians and confront the world rather than remain in isolation. His actions reflect a different vision of destiny—one that embraces conflict and change.

Philosophical and Ideological Foundations

The ideological foundation laid by the First King has significant implications for the future of the Eldians and their relationship with the rest of humanity. By prioritizing peace over all else, the royal line may have indirectly ensured their own safety but at the cost of the Eldians' progress and development. The consequences of this decision, particularly in the face of external threats, raise important questions about the price of peace and the importance of remaining passive in the face of adversity.

Theories and Interpretations

Some theories suggest that the First King, Karl Fritz, had a deeper understanding of the future. He may have possessed the Attack Titan and foresaw the impending conflict with Marley. This insight could have led him to accept the fate of his people, believing that the only way to end the cycle of violence was to prepare for the inevitable war. Eren Yeager may have prevented Fritz from remembering these memories, further deepening the tension between the royal line and the broader narrative.

Ultimately, the central theme of this essay is the ideological conflict between peace and action. While the royal line's inaction is rooted in a desire to protect their people and end suffering, it also limits their ability to address the growing threat of the Titans and the wider world's hostility towards the Eldians.