Attack on Titan, a popular Japanese manga and anime series, has managed to captivate audiences worldwide with its gripping narrative, intricate world-building, and vivid characters. As educators, it’s essential to utilize relevant and engaging materials to keep students interested, which is where Attack on Titan can prove useful. In this article, we will explore methods to weave the complex and thought-provoking themes of Attack on Titan into classroom discussions to inspire critical thinking skills and foster creativity.
1. Begin by Introducing the Series
To engage students in a new topic or medium effectively, it’s necessary first to provide a comprehensive introduction. Start by explaining the basic premise of Attack on Titan – a dystopian world where humanity lives inside walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures (Titans) that prey on them. From there, you can introduce key characters and provide insight into the series’ background. Be mindful that some content in the series may be graphic for younger audiences.
2. Analyze the Moral Ambiguity of Characters
One central aspect of Attack on Titan is its morally complex characters. This enables fruitful discussions about morality, decision-making, and human nature. For example, teachers could assign particular episodes or chapters from the anime or manga and examine how different characters navigate ethically challenging situations.
3. Encourage Comparative Discussions Between Real-life History and Attack on Titan’s World
Attack on Titan has drawn inspiration from war history, politics, and social issues. Instead of teaching these subjects in isolation, educators can use this series as a starting point for meaningful discussion about historical events that parallel those depicted in the show.
4. Utilize Symbolism within the Series
The use of symbolism throughout Attack on Titan encourages students to engage with deeper meanings behind certain scenes or events, such as the Walls representing societal divisions or Titans symbolizing humanity’s primal instincts. By dissecting the symbolism and encouraging students to draw connections between the series and their own lives, teachers can promote introspection and critical thinking.
5. Debate the Societal Implications of Attack on Titan
Throughout Attack on Titan, multiple themes emerge that create an excellent environment for classroom debates. Topics such as authoritarianism, oppression, manipulation of information, and the concept of freedom can inspire students to think critically about how these issues manifest within their own society.
6. Inspire Creative Writing Assignments
Finally, Attack on Titan’s rich characters, complex plotlines, and compelling narrative devices provide fertile ground for creative writing assignments. Encourage students to craft alternative scenarios in the universe or even create original characters responding to the series’ unique challenges.
Incorporating works such as Attack on Titan into a classroom setting is crucial to capturing student interest while simultaneously encouraging critical thinking and creativity. The multifaceted nature of this series allows for engaging discussions about morality and politics while also providing opportunities for creative expression and deep analysis of symbolism. Embracing these themes may boost your students’ intellectual curiosity and their eagerness to participate in future lessons.
