While trying to calm myself over the craziness of Chapter 53 of Attack on Titan, I want to point out a statement made by everyone’s favorite character, Levi, that has a lot of meaning. 

After the beginning events of the chapter, the Survey Corps discuss training Eren Jaeger to rebuilt Wall Maria using his Titan form. Hange Zoe talks about the progress they made, which is pretty much none. Eren feels disappointed and Levi expressed his frustration over the situation. Mikasa Ackerman and Hange are telling Levi that Eren did his best and he responds with this.

“Hold on…All I’m doing is being an asshole. I’m not blaming him.”

Hearing him say this makes me think back about a book I once skimmed through about the benefits of being an asshole. There was a small paragraph about why you should be one rather than be a douchebag. The author stated that assholes have some traits that are admirable (confidence, etc.), while douchebags have no redeeming qualities whatsoever. 

I know many of us have seen our fair share of both types of people. Assholes, for the most part, do not give a damn about how others feel and say/do things just for the hell of it. They could care less, but they do have empathy. Levi is appreciated by his peers despite appearing unlikable. What makes the Napoleon-like captain a beloved individual to the eyes of those close to him? 

The one thing I noticed about Levi is that he has a grasp of people’s inner feelings despite not understanding them completely at times. His interactions with Mikasa about Eren show this skill. While Mikasa has expressed her dislike of his treatment towards Eren, she sees that he’s doing what he thinks is right for the future of humanity, even if it comes off harsh.

Though if you think about it, sometimes in life, you gotta be an asshole. Nothing comes without some sort of confidence. Nice guys may finish last, but nice guys with no fear of getting what they want are far from the end of the line. Douchebags tend to get freaked out if they aren’t getting attention. You can call the Survey Corps a bunch of eccentric assholes since they aren’t focused on fame and want to bring permanent, meaningful change to society, all while not giving a single crap about what authority says to them. 

Guess this is another reason to fangirl over our Heichou, isn’t it?

(c) Manga Therapy – Where Psychology & Manga Meet – Read entire story here.