Grisha Yeager’s impact on the unfolding events in Hajime Isayama’s *Attack on Titan* is extraordinary, despite his early exit from the series. As the former holder of the Attack Titan and the Founding Titan, Grisha played an indispensable role in determining his son Eren’s destiny. Driven by a desire to restore Eldia and avenge his sister Faye, Grisha’s actions leave a lasting ripple effect throughout the story.
The Intricacies of Free Will
The Attack Titan’s power to transmit memories from future holders to the past muddies the waters of free will in Grisha’s decisions. Eren’s perception of self and cause and effect become increasingly unclear after unlocking the full potential of the Founding Titan. Even so, Eren’s manipulation of Grisha proved critical to his strategy for safeguarding Paradis Island.
The Owl’s Apprentice
Grisha’s journey commenced with the Eldian Restorationists in Liberio, where he rose to prominence and married Dina Fritz, a member of the Eldian royal family. The Restorationists received financial support from a spy known as the Owl, who was later unmasked as Eren Kruger, the holder of the Attack Titan. Grisha’s connection to Kruger and the Restorationists ultimately culminated in him inheriting the Attack Titan.
Pursuit of the Founding Titan
Upon reaching the Eldian society within the Walls, Grisha adopted the persona of a physician. Following the obliteration of Wall Maria and the death of his wife Carla, a grief-stricken Grisha set his sights on the Founding Titan. Despite his pleas to Frieda Reiss, the current possessor of the Founding Titan, Grisha encountered resistance from the will of Karl Fritz. Incapable of bringing himself to kill the Reiss family, Grisha wavered.
Eren’s Path Forged
Eren’s intervention through the Attack Titan’s memories reminded Grisha of his mission. Grisha ultimately transformed, overcame Frieda, and seized the Founding Titan. This pivotal moment enabled Eren to inherit both Titans, paving the way for the Rumbling. Grisha later willingly allowed himself to be devoured by Eren, transferring his Titan powers as directed by the future version of his son.
In summary, Grisha Yeager’s actions, molded by the intricate interplay of will and the influence of the Attack Titan’s memories, provided the groundwork for Eren’s crusade to liberate the world from Titans.
