Why Can Mikasa and Captain Levi Not Be a Couple?

The complex bond between Mikasa Ackerman and Captain Levi Ackerman in Attack on Titan has captured the imagination of numerous fans. Many speculate about the possibility of a romantic relationship between the characters, but a closer look at the narrative, character arcs, and thematic elements reveals several reasons why their pairing is unlikely.

The Character Arc

Mikasa's character arc is deeply rooted in her unrequited love and loyalty towards Eren Yeager. Her entire development is centered around her unwavering dedication to Eren, which defines her actions and emotions throughout the series. While Mikasa has a high level of respect and admiration for Levi, her emotional attachment is predominantly towards Eren. This is evident in how she prioritizes Eren's well-being and even at one point says, "I belong with Eren, not anyone else." This suggests that Mikasa is unlikely to seek or desire a romantic relationship with Captain Levi.

Age and Experience

Another significant factor that prevents Mikasa and Levi from becoming a couple is their age and life experiences. Levi is notably older than Mikasa, which adds a layer of maturity and worldliness to his character. His past and experiences have shaped him into a seasoned soldier, with a cynical and pragmatic worldview. In contrast, Mikasa is still navigating her identity and emotional landscape. This difference in age and experience further underscores the gap between them, making a romantic relationship implausible.

Narrative Purpose

The dynamics between Mikasa and Levi serve different narrative purposes. Levi's role as a mentor and protector to Mikasa is central to her growth and development. He guides her in battle and strategy, instilling discipline and combat skills that are crucial for her survival in the world of Attack on Titan. In this context, Levi's mentorship is pivotal to Mikasa's success, and a romantic relationship would risk overshadowing the essential aspects of their relationship.

Emotional Distance

Levi is known for his emotionally distant and reserved demeanor. He often prioritizes his duties and responsibilities over personal relationships. This emotional distance is a defining characteristic of his personality, and it contrasts starkly with Mikasa's more passionate and emotional nature. Despite their strong bond, their differing emotional temperaments make a romantic relationship less likely. Mikasa's passion and intensity are counterbalanced by Levi's stoicism and pragmatism, potentially leading to unresolved tension in a romantic scenario.

Moreover, in the series, Mikasa often finds herself in situations that require absolute focus and unquestionable allegiance. Levi, with his cadre, is integral to her success in these moments. Their relationship is built on trust, loyalty, and mutual respect, which further complicates the prospect of romantic feelings developing between them.

For instance, when Mikasa and Levi work together, their relationship is characterized by a deep understanding and mutual respect. This does not preclude the possibility of developing a romantic relationship, but it would need to overcome the significant emotional and narrative barriers that exist within the story.

Themes of the Series

Attack on Titan explores profound themes such as sacrifice, duty, and the harsh realities of war. Personal relationships are often in conflict with these core themes. A romantic relationship between Mikasa and Levi might detract from the series' overall tone and message. The focus on sacrifice and duty means that personal narratives must sometimes take a backseat to the broader, more impactful storylines.

The narrative structure of Attack on Titan prioritizes the survival of the titans and the protection of humanity over individual romantic relationships. Mikasa and Levi's bond, while strong, is aligned with their shared mission rather than personal desires. This alignment is crucial to the series' central themes and the resolution of its overarching conflicts.

Conclusion

While fans may enjoy the idea of a romantic relationship between Mikasa and Captain Levi, the narrative, character dynamics, and thematic elements of Attack on Titan suggest that such a relationship is unlikely. However, it would be dishonest to completely rule out the possibility. One should remember that the anime and manga offer different perspectives, and the manga provides deeper insights into the characters' parallelism and personal development. Ultimately, whether Mikasa and Levi could or should form a romantic relationship depends on the interpretation of the story and individual preference.

So, while we may not see a romantic relationship between Mikasa and Levi in the series, their mentor-student dynamic is one that fans and critics alike can appreciate. As the series progresses, the parallels and development between Mikasa and Levi continue to add depth and complexity to their characters, making them fascinating to follow.

Peace out!