Was Marcel’s Fate Inevitable in Attack on Titan?

Introduction

In Attack on Titan, Marcel's sequence of events leading up to his fate is a complex blend of strategic focus, unexpected circumstances, and personal morality. While one might wonder why Marcel did not transform into a Titan to avoid being devoured by Ymir, the intricate plot and character motivations offer a unique insight into the decisions made during this crucial moment.

Strategic Focus and Surprise Attack

One of the primary reasons Marcel did not instantly transform into a Titan was his strategic focus. During the surprise attack, Marcel and his comrades, like Reiner, Bertholdt, and Annie, were entirely focused on their mission and the gravity of their responsibilities. Unfortunately, they were taken off guard by Ymir's sudden transformation into a Titan, which caught them in a moment of unexpected chaos. This surprise element made it difficult for Marcel to quickly respond and utilize his Titan powers.

Inability to Transform Instantly

Transforming into a Titan requires a specific trigger, usually a strong emotional response or a conscious decision. The intense and chaotic nature of the battle left Marcel with very little time to react. In the heat of the moment, summoning the will to transform might have been challenging. Ymir's rapid transformation provided a compelling and urgent situation that caught Marcel off-guard, leaving him with a split-second decision.

Ymir’s Unique Motivations

Ymir's transformation and subsequent actions were driven by her own motivations, which were significantly different from those of the other Titans. As an individual who had spent many years as a Titan, Ymir's actions were influenced by her own desires and experiences. Her preoccupation with transforming shifters back into humans had left a lasting psychological impact, even after being buried for 60 years. This unique situation meant that Marcel could not have anticipated Ymir's actions, further complicating his ability to react.

Friendship and Morality

Integrating his personal morality and friendship also played a significant role in marcel’s decision. Marcel's bond with Reiner was strong, and he understood the risks of transforming and taking the others with him. If he had transformed, he might have inadvertently killed his comrades or severely injured them with his Titan form. This risk was not something Marcel could or would willingly take. Additionally, Marcel felt a deep sense of guilt for inadvertently making Reiner’s induction into the three-year plan possible, ultimately dooming his friend to a shortened lifespan.

Conclusion

Marcel's fate in Attack on Titan was a culmination of various factors, including strategic focus, the chaotic nature of battle, and his own personal morality. The inability to instantly transform into a Titan and the unforeseen actions of Ymir made his fate almost inevitable. While it may seem harsh or unjust from a modern perspective, the intricate plot and character motivations in the series provide a rich and compelling narrative for why Marcel did not avoid his fate.