Would Erwin Be A Yeagerist

Would Erwin Smith Be a Yeagerist? Exploring the Complexities of the Survey Corps Commander

The question of whether Erwin Smith, the revered commander of the Survey Corps in Attack on Titan, would align himself with Eren Yeager's radical Yeagerist faction is a complex one, sparking endless debate among fans. Understanding Erwin's unwavering dedication to humanity's survival, his strategic brilliance, and his morally grey decision-making is crucial to forming a well-informed opinion. This article delves deep into Erwin's character, examining his motivations, methods, and ultimate goals to determine the likelihood of his allegiance to Eren's cause.

Understanding Erwin Smith: A Pragmatic Idealist

Erwin Smith was not a man driven by blind faith or unwavering idealism. He was a pragmatist, a strategist who prioritized the survival of humanity above all else. His unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth about the Titans and finding a way to defeat them stemmed from a deep-seated belief in the value of human life. This wasn't naive optimism; it was a cold, calculated assessment of the situation. He understood the brutal reality of their world and the sacrifices necessary to achieve victory.

He often sacrificed individual lives for the greater good, a characteristic that both draws admiration and criticism. His famous words, "If I die here, then everything will be over," highlight his willingness to gamble everything for a chance at success. He was willing to manipulate and even deceive to achieve his goals, proving himself a master manipulator when necessary. This pragmatism, however, doesn't negate his inherent belief in the value of humanity and the importance of fighting for its survival.

Analyzing the Yeagerist Ideology: Freedom at All Costs

Eren Yeager's Yeagerist ideology is predicated on the premise that humanity's only chance for survival lies in eradicating all Eldians outside Paradis Island and eliminating the threat of Marley once and for all. This extreme measure prioritizes the survival of the Paradisian Eldians at the expense of all others. It’s a scorched-earth approach that eschews diplomacy and embraces total war. The Yeagerists believe in achieving freedom through absolute power and the annihilation of their enemies, no matter the cost.

The core of Yeagerism is a desperate, almost nihilistic, embrace of survival. It's a rebellion born from centuries of oppression and fueled by the immense pain and loss experienced by those living on Paradis Island. However, its methods are undoubtedly brutal and disregard the lives of countless individuals.

The Clash of Ideologies: Erwin's Measured Approach vs. Eren's Radicalism

Erwin's approach to survival, while ruthless at times, was significantly different from Eren's. Erwin valued information and strategic planning. He meticulously analyzed every situation, carefully considering all possible outcomes before making a decision. He prioritized minimizing casualties, even if it meant a slower, more methodical approach. While willing to sacrifice some to save many, he never embraced the wanton destruction advocated by the Yeagerists.

Erwin's ambition wasn't about eliminating all external threats; it was about understanding them. He relentlessly pursued knowledge about the Titans, hoping to uncover their origins and find a way to defeat them. His vision extended beyond immediate survival; he sought a future where humanity could live in peace, not a future built on the ashes of global conflict.

This fundamental difference in approach presents a significant obstacle to imagining Erwin as a Yeagerist. While he shared Eren's desire for the survival of Paradis Island, his methods and ultimate goals diverged drastically. Erwin would likely see Eren's plan as reckless, unnecessarily destructive, and ultimately counterproductive in achieving long-term security.

Strategic Considerations: The Impracticality of Yeagerism for Erwin

Erwin was a master strategist, renowned for his ability to analyze complex situations and devise effective plans. He would undoubtedly recognize the significant flaws in Eren's plan. The Rumbling, while undeniably powerful, carries immense risk. It eliminates the threat of external enemies, but it also decimates the global population and risks creating an even greater enemy in the future.

The potential for international retribution and the long-term consequences of such a devastating act would likely weigh heavily on Erwin's mind. He'd likely view the Rumbling not as a solution but as a desperate gamble with disastrous long-term implications. His preference for calculated, long-term strategies would clash violently with Eren's impulsive, apocalyptic approach.

Furthermore, Erwin would likely question the morality of sacrificing countless lives to save a select few. His commitment to humanity's survival was not limited to the people of Paradis Island. He believed in the inherent value of all human life, regardless of their origin or ideology. The Yeagerist's disregard for non-Paradisian lives would be a critical point of contention for him.

Emotional Factors: Loyalty vs. Ideological Conviction

Beyond strategy and pragmatism, emotional factors also play a role. Erwin was a leader who inspired unwavering loyalty in his subordinates. He commanded respect not through fear, but through his unwavering dedication and his willingness to shoulder the burden of leadership. He instilled in his soldiers a sense of purpose and a belief in the possibility of a better future.

Would this loyalty translate to supporting Eren's radical ideology? It's unlikely. While Erwin valued loyalty fiercely, his commitment to his beliefs was even stronger. He would likely struggle with supporting an ideology that directly contradicted his core values and strategic judgment. The conflict between loyalty to his former comrades and his unwavering commitment to his principles would make this a deeply agonizing internal struggle.

The Role of Information and Knowledge: Erwin's Need for Truth

Erwin's insatiable hunger for knowledge is a defining characteristic. His relentless pursuit of the truth about the Titans stemmed from a belief that understanding the enemy was crucial to defeating them. Eren's actions, in contrast, were often driven by emotion and a desperate need to act. He valued immediate action over careful consideration.

Erwin would likely find Eren's secretive and unilateral actions unacceptable. He would struggle with the lack of transparency and the lack of a broader strategic vision. His inherent need to understand the full picture, to weigh all the potential consequences, would clash with Eren's impulsive decision-making.

Conclusion: Erwin Would Likely Oppose the Yeagerists

Considering all aspects of Erwin Smith’s character – his pragmatism, his strategic brilliance, his moral compass, and his deep-seated commitment to truth – it’s highly improbable that he would align himself with the Yeagerists. His belief in the value of human life extended beyond the boundaries of Paradis Island. His calculated approach to strategy would find Eren's methods recklessly destructive. And his unwavering commitment to truth and knowledge would clash with Eren's secretive and often ruthless tactics. While he undeniably shared the Yeagerists' desire to protect Paradis Island, his methods and ultimate goals were fundamentally different. Erwin would likely see Eren's path as a road to destruction, not salvation. He would fight against the Rumbling, not for it. His conflict wouldn't stem from a lack of loyalty or a misunderstanding of the threat; it would be a fundamental clash of ideologies and strategic approaches. The survival of humanity, in Erwin's eyes, would not be achieved through the annihilation of others, but through understanding, strategy, and a measured approach to conflict resolution.