Eren Yeager’s Most Painful Deception to Mikasa in Attack on Titan Revealed

Attack on Titan has reached a shocking climax in its final season, particularly with the actions of Eren Yeager, which have sparked significant controversy. During this pivotal time, Eren finds himself involved in some truly devastating events, but perhaps his most profound betrayal is his treatment of Mikasa. As the series progresses, Eren’s character takes a dark turn, becoming fixated on achieving a singular, destructive goal.

Once cherished and indulged by those around him, Eren’s former warmth and loyalty transform into cold calculating hostility towards his loved ones, including close friends. This drastic shift leads to one of the most damaging lies he tells Mikasa, a moment that leaves an indelible emotional scar and creates a deep rift between them.

Disclaimer: This article represents the author’s opinion and contains spoilers from the ‘Attack on Titan’ final season.

How Eren Yeager’s Most Painful Lie to Mikasa in Attack on Titan Was More Heartbreaking Than Fans Realized

The most painful lie Eren Yeager ever told Mikasa in Attack on Titan occurs when he claims that he has always hated her. This moment unfolds during the most intense part of the Final Season, as Eren, Mikasa, and Armin confront each other.

Eren argues that Mikasa’s unwavering dedication to him is not an act of free will but rather a result of her Ackerman bloodline, suggesting that she is compelled to protect him. He even asserts that her actions stem not from love, but from instinctive programming.

Eren’s admission devastates the bond they shared, leading Mikasa to question the authenticity of their relationship. However, the true weight of this lie lies not just in its cruelty, but in its calculation.

Understanding that he must sever ties with his closest friends to pursue his plan, Eren’s lie serves a dual purpose. Not only does he aim to eliminate his enemies, but he also intends to ensure that those close to him can take the difficult step of killing him if needed.

Mikasa as seen in anime (Image via MAPPA)

By declaring that he hated Mikasa, Eren sought to dismantle her attachment so that she could cope with the prospect of having to kill him. He recognized that his feelings for her would complicate this necessity, and thus, he resorted to this lie to create the emotional distance required.

This episode is heart-wrenching because, despite its supposed necessity, it cuts deeply into the essence of their once-beautiful relationship. Mikasa had always stood as Eren’s protector, willing to sacrifice herself for him. To be told abruptly that her care was unwanted and meaningless inflicted severe emotional harm on her, yet it also empowered her with the strength needed to fulfill her grim duty at the appropriate moment.

Had Eren not told this lie, Mikasa might not have been able to carry out her fateful actions, potentially jeopardizing humanity’s future. The lie posited by Eren is both tragic and essential for his ultimate end.

Final Thoughts

Eren and Mikasa as seen in anime (Image via MAPPA)

Of all the hurtful lies Eren Yeager told Mikasa in the concluding chapters of Attack on Titan, the most significant is undoubtedly the one where he claimed to hate her. This deliberate deception was not only emotionally devastating for Mikasa, who had protected Eren from the very start, but it was also crucial for ensuring the success of Eren’s plan. It tragically transformed their profound connection into a painful conflict, where love was sacrificed in the name of survival.

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