What is it: Attack on Titan: Before the Fall
Attack on Titan: Before the Fall is a light novel and manga series that serves as a prequel to the famous Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin) series. Written by Ryō Suzukaze and illustrated by Thores Shibamoto, the light novel series was first published in 2011, while the manga adaptation, illustrated by Satoshi Shiki, began serialization in 2013. Set decades before the events of the main series, Before the Fall explores the origin of the Titans and the development of the technologies and tactics humans use to combat them. The series is an essential addition for fans who want to better understand the Attack on Titan universe, offering deeper and more detailed context on the events that led to the desperate situation faced by the characters in the main series.
Central Characters in Attack on Titan: Before the Fall
The characters in Attack on Titan: Before the Fall are fundamental to the narrative and help build the complexity of the Attack on Titan universe. One of the main characters is Kuklo, a young man who was found inside the stomach of a Titan and is therefore called the “Titan's Child”. Kuklo faces prejudice and discrimination due to his mysterious origin, but he becomes a determined warrior to fight the Titans. Another important character is Sharle Inocencio, a young noblewoman who becomes Kuklo's friend and ally. She is a strong and independent character who defies the social norms of her time. In addition to them, Jorge Pikale, a talented engineer, plays a crucial role in the development of three-dimensional maneuvering equipment, a vital technology for the fight against the Titans. These characters, with their unique stories and motivations, enrich the plot and offer a broader perspective on the world of Attack on Titan.
The Development of Three-Dimensional Maneuvering Equipment
One of the most fascinating aspects of Attack on Titan: Before the Fall is its exploration of the development of three-dimensional maneuvering equipment, a technology crucial to the fight against the Titans. In the Attack on Titan universe, this technology allows humans to move quickly in three dimensions, giving them a fighting chance against the gigantic Titans. Before the development of this equipment, humans were at a great disadvantage. The Before the Fall series details the challenges and innovations that led to the creation of this technology. Jorge Pikale, a brilliant engineer, is one of the main people responsible for this invention. He faces numerous technical and financial obstacles, but his determination and ingenuity result in a tool that changes the course of the war against the Titans. The story of the development of three-dimensional maneuvering equipment is a testament to human resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.
The Role of Society and Politics in Before the Fall
Attack on Titan: Before the Fall also offers in-depth insight into the society and politics within the walls. The series explores the social divisions and political tensions that exist between different segments of the population. The nobility and military play dominant roles, often making decisions that affect the lives of everyone within the walls. Discrimination and prejudice are recurring themes, especially in the case of Kuklo, who is treated as an outcast due to his origins. The series also addresses corruption and the struggle for power within military and government structures. These social and political dynamics add layers of complexity to the narrative, showing that the fight against the Titans is not just physical, but also moral and ethical. The Before the Fall series, therefore, is not only an action and adventure story, but also a reflection on human nature and power structures.
The Impact of the Titans on Everyday Life
In Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, Titans aren't just monsters to be defeated; they have a profound impact on the everyday lives of people within the walls. The constant threat of the Titans shapes culture, the economy, and even personal relationships. People live in constant fear, and this fear influences their decisions and behaviors. The series shows how the Titans' presence affects everything from the architecture of cities to the professions people choose. For example, the construction of gigantic walls and the creation of military garrisons are direct responses to the threat of the Titans. Furthermore, the economy is heavily influenced by the need for resources to build and maintain these defenses. The series also explores how fear of the Titans affects personal relationships, creating an environment of distrust and paranoia. In short, Before the Fall offers a detailed look at how the Titans' presence permeates every aspect of life within the walls.
The Exploration of the Origins of the Titans
Another intriguing aspect of Attack on Titan: Before the Fall is the exploration of the Titans' origins. While the main Attack on Titan series focuses more on fighting the Titans and survival strategies, Before the Fall takes the time to investigate where these monsters came from and how they became such a threat. The series suggests several theories and clues about the origin of the Titans, including scientific experiments and historical events that may have led to their creation. This exploration adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the narrative, encouraging readers to question and investigate deeper into the Attack on Titan universe. The search for the Titans' origins also raises ethical and moral questions, especially when it comes to scientific experiments and their consequences. In short, Before the Fall offers a broader, more investigative perspective on the Titans, enriching readers' understanding of these enigmatic monsters.
Battles and Strategies in Before the Fall
The battles and strategies in Attack on Titan: Before the Fall are crucial elements that keep readers engaged and excited. The series details several epic battles between humans and Titans, showing the tactics and strategies used to face these gigantic creatures. Unlike the main series, where the characters already have a certain level of skill and technology, Before the Fall shows the initial development of these tactics and technologies. Characters need to be creative and innovative to survive, and this results in some of the most intense and exciting battles in the series. The introduction of three-dimensional maneuvering equipment, for example, completely changes the dynamics of battles, allowing humans to fight the Titans more effectively. In addition to the physical battles, the series also explores the psychological and emotional battles that the characters face, adding extra depth to the narrative. In short, the battles and strategies in Before the Fall are one of the high points of the series, offering action and emotion in equal measure.
The Role of Women in Attack on Titan: Before the Fall
Attack on Titan: Before the Fall also stands out for its portrayal of women in a world dominated by constant threats and challenges. Sharle Inocencio, one of the main characters, is an example of strength and resilience. She challenges the social norms of her time, showing that women can be as brave and determined as men. The series doesn't just portray women as supportive figures; they are active and play crucial roles in the fight against the Titans. In addition to Sharle, other female characters are also portrayed as warriors, engineers and leaders, contributing significantly to the narrative. This focus on women adds a layer of diversity and inclusion to the series, showing that the fight against the Titans is a collective battle that involves all members of society, regardless of gender. In short, Before the Fall offers a balanced and empowering representation of women, further enriching the Attack on Titan universe.
The Importance of Friendship and Loyalty
In Attack on Titan: Before the Fall, friendship and loyalty are central themes that permeate the narrative. The relationships between the characters are complex and multifaceted, showing that, in a world full of danger and uncertainty, friendship and loyalty are essential for survival. Kuklo and Sharle, for example, develop a deep friendship that helps them overcome countless challenges. This friendship is based on mutual trust and respect, showing that, even in times of despair, human bonds can be a source of strength and hope. Furthermore, loyalty among members of military garrisons is crucial to the effectiveness of operations against the Titans. The series shows that loyalty is not just a matter of duty, but also of personal choice and conviction. In short, Before the Fall highlights the importance of friendship and loyalty, showing that these values are fundamental to facing adversity and building a better future.
The Legacy of Attack on Titan: Before the Fall
Attack on Titan: Before the Fall leaves a lasting legacy on the Attack on Titan universe, offering a deeper, richer understanding of the events and characters that shape the main series. The series serves as a prequel that not only expands the lore but also adds new layers of complexity and nuance to the narrative. Fans of the main series will find in Before the Fall answers to many of the questions that remained open, as well as new questions that further enrich the Attack on Titan universe. The series also highlights the importance of innovation, resilience and courage, showing that, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable threats, humanity has the ability to adapt and survive. In short, Before the Fall is a worthy addition to the Attack on Titan universe, offering a rich and engaging narrative that complements and expands on the main series in significant ways.
