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Overview of Attack on Titan Before the Fall
Background and Creation
Attack on Titan Before the Fall was first published in 2012 as a light novel series, later adapted into a manga. It is set approximately 70 years prior to the events of the original Attack on Titan series, during a time when humanity was struggling to survive against the threat of the Titans but had not yet faced the catastrophic breaches of the walls. The story was created to fill in the historical gaps and add depth to the universe introduced by Hajime Isayama.
The manga was authored by Ryo Suzukaze, based on the original concept by Hajime Isayama, with illustrations by Satoshi Shiki. Its primary aim was to explore the early days of the Titan threat, the development of military technology, and the societal upheavals that led to the formation of the current world order.
Setting and Time Period
The series is set in the same world as Attack on Titan but focuses on a different era characterized by political instability, technological advancements, and the emergence of the first Ackerman and other notable characters. It predates the walls' construction and depicts a world where humanity's defenses are still in their infancy.
The era covers the period when the Eldian Empire, which later becomes Marley, was still a dominant power, and the origins of the military divisions—including the Survey Corps, Garrison, and Military Police—are being established. The story also delves into the societal stratification, with Eldians and Marleyans playing pivotal roles.
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Key Themes and Elements in Before the Fall
The Origins of the Titans
One of the central themes of Before the Fall is the exploration of how Titans first appeared and the nature of their existence. Unlike the main series, which treats Titans as mindless monsters, this prequel offers insights into their origins, including the role of the mysterious “Coordinate” and the potential connection to Eldian bloodlines.
The series presents the idea that certain individuals possess the ability to transform into Titans, a trait linked to the Eldian race. It also examines the early experiments and research conducted to understand and control this phenomenon.
Development of Military Technologies
Before the Fall showcases the technological innovations that contributed to humanity’s defense against the Titans. It introduces early versions of the Three-Dimensional Maneuver Gear and other weaponry that would later become standard.
The series highlights the struggles faced by engineers and soldiers trying to develop effective means to combat the Titans, emphasizing the importance of innovation and adaptation in warfare.
Political and Societal Structures
The prequel explores the political landscape of the time, revealing the power struggles, alliances, and conflicts between different factions. It depicts a society rife with corruption, class disparities, and imperial ambitions.
The Eldian Empire, which heavily influences the story, is shown as a superpower with a complex history of conquest and oppression, setting the groundwork for the later Marleyan dominance.
Emergence of Key Characters
Several characters introduced in Before the Fall play crucial roles in the overall story. Notable among them are:
- Kenny Ackerman: A skilled soldier with a mysterious past, whose story intertwines with the origins of the Ackerman clan.
- Jill: A young girl with a connection to the Titans, representing the human side of the conflict.
- Dot Pixis: A military officer whose strategic mind influences early decisions regarding Titan research and defense.
Their backgrounds and motivations add depth to the narrative, illustrating the diverse perspectives within the world of Attack on Titan.
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Major Plot Points in Attack on Titan Before the Fall
The Discovery of the Coordinate
The series traces the discovery of the “Coordinate,” a mysterious power that allows its wielder to control Titans. This power is linked to the royal bloodline of Eldia and becomes a focal point for various factions vying for control.
The story explores how the Coordinate was first identified and the implications it had for the future of humanity and Titan research.
Early Conflicts and Battles
Before the Fall depicts several early skirmishes between human factions and Titan attacks. These conflicts showcase the bravery and ingenuity of early soldiers, as well as the limitations of their technology.
The battles serve to illustrate the escalating arms race and the urgency to develop more effective weapons and strategies.
The Rise of the Military Factions
The series details the origins of the key military divisions:
- Survey Corps: The exploratory force aiming to understand Titans and seek new territories.
- Garrison: Responsible for defending the walls and maintaining order within human settlements.
- Military Police: Enforcing law and order within the inner city and royal court.
The formation and evolution of these factions reflect the societal priorities and strategic needs of the time.
The Role of Eldians and Marleyans
The complex relationship between Eldians and Marleyans is explored in depth. Eldians, possessing the power to transform into Titans, are often persecuted or exploited by Marleyans, who seek to control and suppress their abilities.
The series examines the origins of this conflict, setting the stage for the later Marleyan imperialism seen in the main series.
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Impact and Significance of Attack on Titan Before the Fall
Enriching the Lore of Attack on Titan
Before the Fall provides fans with an expanded universe, shedding light on the mysterious origins of the Titans and the early history of the civilization. It offers context for the main story’s events and helps explain the deep-rooted conflicts that persist.
Understanding the Characters and Their Motivations
The prequel introduces characters whose actions and backgrounds influence the broader narrative. Understanding their motives enhances the emotional depth of the original series and gives fans a more nuanced view of the world.
Implications for the Main Series
The insights gained from Before the Fall have significant implications for understanding:
- The origin of Titan powers
- The political alliances and betrayals
- The societal structures that perpetuate conflict
This background enriches the reader’s appreciation of the main story’s complexity.
Conclusion
Attack on Titan Before the Fall is an essential addition to the Attack on Titan universe, offering a detailed look into the early days of humanity’s struggle against the Titans. By exploring the origins of the Titans, the development of military technology, and the political machinations of the time, it deepens the understanding of the world Hajime Isayama created. For fans seeking to grasp the full scope of the series' lore, Before the Fall provides invaluable insights, character backgrounds, and historical context that enhance the overall narrative. Its intricate storytelling and compelling characters make it a must-read for anyone interested in the origins of one of the most compelling manga universes of our time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall'?
'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall' is a manga series set in the same universe as the original 'Attack on Titan' manga, focusing on events that occur before the fall of Wall Maria and exploring the history of the Titans and humanity's fight for survival.
Who are the main characters in 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall'?
The series primarily follows Kuklo, a boy born from a Titan, and Lilin, a young woman who aims to develop new military technology. It also features characters like Garrison Troopers and other military figures involved in the early days of Titan research.
How does 'Before the Fall' connect to the original 'Attack on Titan' series?
'Before the Fall' is set approximately 70 years before the events of the main series and provides background on the origins of the vertical maneuvering equipment, early Titan research, and the societal dynamics leading up to the fall of Wall Maria.
What are the main themes explored in 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall'?
The series explores themes such as the ethics of Titan research, the struggle for power, human innovation versus primal instincts, and the origins of the conflict between humans and Titans.
Is 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall' considered canon in the 'Attack on Titan' universe?
Yes, 'Before the Fall' is considered canon as it was officially published by the creators and provides important background information that enriches the main story.
Where can I read 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall'?
You can read 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall' through official manga publishers' platforms, such as Kodansha's digital services, or through licensed print editions available online and in bookstores.
How does 'Before the Fall' expand on the lore of Titans?
'Before the Fall' delves into the origins of Titans, the development of the first vertical maneuvering equipment, and the early attempts by humans to combat Titan threats, adding depth to the series' mythology.
Are there any anime adaptations of 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall'?
As of now, 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall' has not received an official anime adaptation, but fans can enjoy the manga and related media.
What is the significance of Kuklo in 'Before the Fall'?
Kuklo is a central character whose unique background as a boy born from a Titan provides insight into Titan biology and plays a key role in the story's exploration of human-Titan relationships.
How does 'Attack on Titan: Before the Fall' enhance the understanding of the main series' plot?
It offers crucial historical context, character backstories, and technological developments that help fans better understand the origins of the conflict, the world-building, and the circumstances leading up to the fall of Wall Maria.
