The Mystery of the Colossal Titan's Demise
For fans of the hit anime and manga series Attack on Titan, one of the most enduring questions revolves around the fate of the colossal, lumbering giants that threaten humanity's survival. Specifically, many are curious: Who kills the Colossal Titan? This question, while seemingly straightforward, delves into a complex web of betrayals, strategic maneuvers, and the devastating evolution of the series' characters and narrative.
To understand who ultimately defeats the Colossal Titan, we need to trace its appearances and the pivotal moments that led to its downfall. The Colossal Titan is not just any Titan; it's a unique and terrifying entity, known for its immense size, its ability to generate steam, and its role in the initial breach of Wall Maria, a catastrophic event that set the stage for the entire story.
The Colossal Titan's Early Encounters
The Colossal Titan first makes its dramatic entrance at the beginning of the series, appearing over the Wall Maria. Its sheer size is overwhelming, and its actions directly lead to the destruction of Shiganshina district and the loss of countless lives. During these initial encounters, the Colossal Titan's primary objective appears to be destruction and intimidation. It is a force of nature, seemingly without individual will or a discernible combatant behind it.
However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that the Titans are not mere mindless beasts. They are wielded by intelligent beings known as Titan Shifters, individuals with the ability to transform into Titans. The question then shifts from "What kills the Colossal Titan?" to "Who is the Colossal Titan, and who defeats them?"
The Identity of the Colossal Titan Revealed
The true identity of the Colossal Titan is one of the series' most significant plot twists. It is revealed to be **Bertolt Hoover**. Bertolt, a seemingly quiet and unassuming member of the 104th Training Corps, was a spy and a traitor working for Marley, the nation at war with Eldia. His mission was to infiltrate Paradis Island and facilitate its eventual destruction.
Bertolt, as the Colossal Titan, was responsible for multiple devastating attacks. His most notable actions include:
- Breaching Wall Maria, allowing Titans to flood Shiganshina.
- Breaching Wall Rose, causing widespread panic and a desperate struggle for survival.
The Decisive Battle: Eren Yeager vs. Bertolt Hoover
The ultimate confrontation that leads to the Colossal Titan's defeat occurs during the Battle of Shiganshina. After years of planning and gathering intelligence, the Survey Corps launches a daring operation to reclaim their homeland and uncover the secrets of the Titans.
In this climactic battle, **Eren Yeager**, the protagonist and a powerful Titan Shifter himself (the Attack Titan and later the Founding Titan), faces off against Bertolt Hoover in his Colossal Titan form. The fight is brutal and a testament to the immense power wielded by both individuals.
Eren, fueled by his rage and determination to protect his friends and his people, engages the Colossal Titan in a desperate struggle. While Eren initially suffers significant damage, he is ultimately able to gain the upper hand.
"The Colossal Titan's immense steam output and its ability to regenerate were formidable, but Eren's relentless assault and strategic adaptation proved to be the turning point."
The specific moment of the Colossal Titan's defeat comes when Eren, in his Attack Titan form, manages to rip Bertolt out of his Titan body. However, Eren doesn't personally deliver the final blow that kills Bertolt in his human form. Instead, the crucial act of finishing off Bertolt is carried out by another key character:
Armin Arlert's Pivotal Role
In a devastating twist of fate, it is **Armin Arlert** who ultimately consumes Bertolt Hoover, thus inheriting the Colossal Titan's power. This happens after Bertolt, severely weakened and on the verge of death from his battle with Eren, is left exposed. Erwin Smith, the Commander of the Survey Corps, sacrifices himself to draw the attention of the Beast Titan, creating an opening for Eren and Armin.
Armin, having been gravely injured himself, is given the option to inherit the Colossal Titan's power through the injection of Titan serum. With Eren's encouragement and the knowledge that this is the only way to ensure the Colossal Titan's threat is neutralized and its power secured for Paradis, Armin makes the agonizing choice to consume Bertolt.
Therefore, while Eren Yeager directly battles and incapacitates the Colossal Titan, it is **Armin Arlert who, by consuming Bertolt Hoover, is the one who effectively "kills" the Colossal Titan and inherits its power.** This act is a profound moment, highlighting the immense sacrifices and moral complexities that define Attack on Titan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did Armin inherit the Colossal Titan's power?
Armin inherited the Colossal Titan's power by consuming the spinal fluid of Bertolt Hoover after Bertolt had been severely weakened and rendered helpless following his battle with Eren Yeager. This is the established method for inheriting Titan powers in the world of Attack on Titan.
Why did Bertolt Hoover become the Colossal Titan?
Bertolt Hoover was a Marleyan warrior sent to Paradis Island as part of a mission to destabilize Eldia and reclaim the Founding Titan. He and other warriors, like Reiner Braun (Armored Titan) and Annie Leonhart (Female Titan), were indoctrinated from a young age to serve Marley's agenda.
What was the significance of the Colossal Titan's steam?
The Colossal Titan's immense size allowed it to generate vast amounts of heat and steam. This steam served as a defensive mechanism, burning anything that came too close, and also made it incredibly difficult to get near enough to attack its nape, the only vulnerable spot.
What happened to Eren Yeager after the battle at Shiganshina?
After the battle at Shiganshina, Eren Yeager gained the Founding Titan's power in addition to the Attack Titan. This was a crucial turning point, as it gave Paradis Island a significant advantage in the ongoing conflict and set Eren on a path toward his ultimate, world-altering decisions.
Who is the strongest Titan Shifter?
The strength of Titan Shifters can vary greatly depending on their individual abilities, combat skills, and the specific Titan they wield. However, Eren Yeager, in his later forms (especially with the Founding Titan and the powers of all Nine Titans), is arguably the most powerful and influential Titan Shifter in the series due to his unique circumstances and ultimate goals.
