Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama presents a unique and fascinating narrative that delves into a world where humans are no longer at the top of the hierarchy. The story imagines a species, the Titans, which stands above humans in both physical stature and threat, leading humanity to live in constant fear and confinement. In response, humans erect enormous walls to protect themselves from these seemingly unintelligent, yet destructive giants. However, beyond this thrilling plot lies a deeper exploration of human curiosity, growth, and the drive to break through self-imposed limits.
A World of Giants and Walls
In Attack on Titan, humanity lives in walled cities to defend against Titans—massive creatures that prey on humans. These towering beings, some over 50 meters tall, represent a force that far surpasses humanity in strength. The walls serve as a symbol of safety but also of limitation, confining humans within known boundaries. Despite the perceived security, many humans desire to venture beyond these walls, driven by a need to discover the unknown. The Survey Corps, a group formed to explore the world outside, represents this desire for exploration and knowledge. In a world filled with danger, the quest for answers becomes central to the story.
The Role of Curiosity
Attack on Titan quickly immerses readers in a world full of questions and mysteries, drawing us into its story through our own curiosity. The manga’s intrigue is one of its key strengths, compelling readers to seek answers to the many uncertainties presented. This curiosity reflects a fundamental human trait—the drive to learn and explore. In real life, curiosity is essential for personal growth. Without it, we become stagnant, limiting our potential for learning new skills, discovering new interests, or challenging our current beliefs.
Many people feel constrained by self-doubt or limiting beliefs about their abilities, thinking they have reached their full potential. Yet, this is not the case. Adopting a growth mindset—the belief that one can improve and develop through effort and perseverance—can drastically change one’s perspective. Attack on Titan demonstrates this mindset through its characters, who are constantly striving to grow, learn, and overcome obstacles.
Growth Mindset in the Characters
The characters in Attack on Titan exemplify the growth mindset in different ways. Armin, for instance, dreams of seeing the sea, inspired by a book he read in his youth. Despite the seemingly impossible odds of surviving outside the walls, he holds onto his curiosity and desire for exploration. Similarly, Eren, the protagonist, is driven by a burning desire to defeat the Titans. While his initial motivation is rooted in anger and revenge, his journey evolves into one of discovery—seeking to understand the truth behind the Titans and their origins. These characters show that even in the face of insurmountable challenges, they maintain a belief that they can grow and achieve their goals.
Curiosity and Technology in Modern Society
In today’s world, humans are generally at the top of the food chain, surrounded by advanced technologies that make our lives easier. However, this position of comfort can often lead to complacency. Many of us use technology every day without understanding how it works, and while it’s not necessary to become experts in every field, maintaining a sense of curiosity is crucial. Curiosity encourages us to question the status quo, explore new ideas, and engage more actively with the world around us.
By fostering a curious mindset, we can develop a greater awareness of the systems, technologies, and cultures that shape our lives. This awareness ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our society, pushing us toward progress and personal growth.
Attack on Titan is more than just a thrilling manga about a fight for survival; it serves as a reflection on the importance of curiosity and a growth mindset. Through the story’s characters and themes, it reminds us that seeking knowledge and embracing the unknown are essential to personal development. Whether in a world dominated by Titans or in our own daily lives, the desire to grow and challenge our limitations is what drives progress, allowing us to break free from the walls that confine us.
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