Why Didn’t Rod Reiss Just Eat Eren? Understanding His Choices and Needs

The strategic decisions made by Rod Reiss in the world of Attack on Titan delve deep into the complex plot and unique lore of this acclaimed series. One pivotal question that often arises is why Reiss didn’t just settle for Eren Yeager, a powerful and seemingly fitting candidate for the Founding Titan. This article explores the rationale behind his choice of Historia and the multifaceted motivations at play.

The Royal Blood Requirement

One of the key factors that drove Reiss’s decision to consume Historia rather than Eren was the fundamental requirement of royal blood. In the series, it is established that only individuals with royal blood can fully harness the power of the Founding Titan. Eren Yeager, despite possessing tremendous Titan-shifting abilities, is not of royal lineage. Reiss, as a Titan-shifter himself, faced the necessity of consuming a member of the royal family to unlock the Founding Titan's full potential. Historia, being the last known member of the royal family, became the crucial link to Reiss's ultimate goal.

Eren’s Independent Will

Apart from the biological requirement, Reiss recognized the complexity posed by Eren’s independent will. Eren was not just a regular Titan-shifter; he possessed unique consciousness and intentions. The idea of forcibly consuming Eren, thus potentially suppressing his will, was deemed risky. Through Historia, Reiss could ensure that he would have full control over the Founding Titan's abilities without the potential interference of Eren’s consciousness. This strategic move would solidify Reiss's claim to power and control over the Eldian fate.

A Vision for the Future

Reiss's long-term plans for the Eldians played a critical role in his decision. His vision entailed using the Founding Titan to create a new world, a utopia that aligned with his ideals. By consuming Historia, Reiss could pave the way for his plans without the unpredictability of relying solely on Eren. Eren may not always be in line with Reiss's objectives, making him a less reliable partner for achieving Reiss’s grand ambitions.

A Selfish and Desperate Descent

Driven by his insatiable desire for power and unwillingness to undertake the arduous path of shifting, Reiss employed a series of unconventional and desperate measures. His initial intention was to use Historia to fulfill his plans, but his desperation ultimately led him to a fork in the road. Recognizing the futility of his situation, Reiss resorted to extreme measures, even turning to a transformation serum to become a Titan. However, his plans were thwarted, leading to his ultimate downfall. The Serena Despair saga highlights the extent of his desperation, as he abandoned his original plan and instead consumed the serum, making his attempts futile.

Conclusion

Reiss's choice to consume Historia rather than Eren was rooted in strategic necessity, personal ambition, and a deep-seated desire for control. His actions reflect the spiraling descent of a character driven by power and a willingness to take drastic measures, even at the cost of his own life. While Eren’s role in the grand scheme of the series is pivotal, Reiss’s journey serves as a cautionary tale of the potential consequences of such an insatiable hunger for power.