Attack on Titan is one of the most popular and acclaimed anime and manga series of all time. The story follows the struggle of humanity against the monstrous Titans that have nearly wiped them out. Among the many intriguing characters and mysteries in the series, one of the most fascinating is the relationship between Mikasa Ackerman and Levi Ackerman, two of the strongest and most skilled fighters in the Survey Corps.
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Who are Mikasa and Levi Ackerman?
Mikasa Ackerman is the adoptive sister of Eren Yeager, the main protagonist of the series. She was born in Shiganshina District, a town located in Wall Maria, the outermost of the three circular walls that protect humanity from the Titans. She is the last known descendant of the Asian clan, a minority group that was persecuted by the royal government. She also carries the surname Ackerman, which belongs to another oppressed family that rebelled against the king’s ideology.
Levi Ackerman is the captain of the Survey Corps’ Special Operations Squad, an elite team that is entrusted with the most dangerous missions. He is widely regarded as humanity’s strongest soldier and has earned the nickname “Humanity’s Strongest”. He was born in the Underground City, a subterranean slum where criminals and outcasts live. He was raised by Kenny Ackerman, a notorious serial killer who was also his uncle.
The exact nature of the relationship between Mikasa and Levi is not explicitly stated in the series, but there are clues that suggest that they are distant cousins. The first hint is their shared surname, Ackerman, which is not a common name in the world of Attack on Titan. The second hint is their extraordinary physical abilities, which surpass those of normal humans. They both possess a power that awakens in them when they face a life-threatening situation, granting them enhanced strength, speed, reflexes, and intuition. This power is inherited from their ancestors, who were once loyal protectors of the royal family.
The third hint is their family history, which reveals that they both descend from a branch of the Ackerman clan that separated from the main family. According to Kenny’s grandfather, who told him about their past, a part of the Ackerman family moved to Shiganshina District, where Mikasa’s father was born. This implies that Mikasa’s father was related to Kenny’s grandfather, who was also Levi’s grandfather. Therefore, Mikasa and Levi are likely third cousins, or at least share some common ancestors.
What is their relationship like?
Mikasa and Levi have a complicated relationship that evolves throughout the series. They first meet during Eren’s military trial, where Levi brutally beats him up to prove that he can be controlled. Mikasa despises Levi for hurting Eren and vows to kill him if he ever does it again. However, Levi understands Mikasa’s feelings and does not hold a grudge against her.
Later, they work together to rescue Eren from the Female Titan, who turns out to be Annie Leonhart, one of their comrades. During this mission, Mikasa disobeys Levi’s orders and tries to kill Annie out of revenge, putting herself in danger. Levi saves her life twice, but injures his leg in the process. He scolds her for being reckless and emotional, but also praises her for being strong.
As they learn more about each other’s backgrounds and abilities, they develop a mutual respect and trust. They also discover their shared surname and bloodline, which makes them curious about their connection. They bond over their common goal of protecting Eren and fighting for humanity’s freedom. They also share some moments of humor and compassion, such as when Levi comforts Mikasa after Eren’s apparent death or when Mikasa teases Levi about his height.
Why are they so popular among fans?
Mikasa and Levi are two of the most beloved characters in Attack on Titan for many reasons. They are both badass warriors who can take down multiple Titans with ease. They are also loyal friends who care deeply about their comrades and will do anything to save them. They have complex personalities and backgrounds that make them interesting and relatable. They have overcome many hardships and tragedies in their lives, but they never give up hope or courage.
Many fans also ship them romantically, despite their lack of romantic interactions in the series. Some fans find their similarities and differences attractive and appealing. Some fans enjoy their dynamic of rivalry and cooperation. Some fans imagine what kind of relationship they could have if they were not living in such a cruel world.
Whatever the reason, Mikasa and Levi are undoubtedly two of the most iconic characters in Attack on Titan and anime history.
Conclusion
Mikasa Ackerman and Levi Ackerman are two remarkable characters who share more than just a name. They are distant relatives who belong to a special clan that has a mysterious power and a tragic past. They are also formidable fighters who have dedicated their lives to defending humanity from the Titans. They have a complex relationship that ranges from hatred to friendship, from conflict to cooperation, from curiosity to respect. They are both heroes who inspire fans with their strength, skill, and spirit.
This article was written based on the information from the following sources:
- Attack on Titan: Are Mikasa And Levi Related? (& 9 Other Facts About Their Relationship) by Bailey Jo Josie on CBR
- Attack On Titan: Are Mikasa And Levi Ackerman Related? by Margarida Bastos on Looper
- Are Levi and Mikasa Related in Attack on Titan? by Fiction Horizon
- Is Levi Ackerman Related To Mikasa Ackerman In Attack on Titan? by Comic Bento
