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1. We have been introduced to the parents of almost every significant AOT character (see below). Yet, we know very little about Armin's family. This is strange, given he is one of the 3 main characters.
2. The AOT guidebook confirms that Armin's parents were killed trying to escape the walls in a hot air balloon. However, this leaves us with two questions: 1) Why were his parents trying to escape? 2) How did Armin get that book on the outside world?
3. If Armin and his parents are instead members of the Tybur family, this would explain everything.
4. Quick recap: The Tybur's aided King Fritz in ending the Great Titan War some years ago. From the Marleyan POV, the Tybur's were the first Eldian noble family (possessing the WHT) to 'side' with them. Bc of this, they became the true 'rulers' of Marley.
5. The Tybur family also kept in regular contact w a select few people behind the walls of Paradis. If Armin's family is of Tybur descent, this connection with their relatives could be maintained, hence why Armin had access to a book on the outside world.
6. It would also explain why Armin's parents wanted to leave to the outside world. Most ppl behind the Wall feared ever leaving (considering the Titans). However, if Armin's parents knew that their family was in a (safe) neighbouring nation, this could explain their motivation.
7. Isayama also stated that Armin's most 'distinguisable' feature is his nose. When you compare the noses of Armin and Willy Tybur, the resemblance is uncanny.
8. Interestingly, there are also many personality similarities between Armin and Willy Tybur. Firstly, they both have similar ideologies; using communication as a means for peace.
9. Secondly, both Armin and Willy Tybur are self-sacrificing. Willy knew he would die during his infamous speech, but did so to ensure the world would heed his words. Armin has similarly sacrificed himself on multiple occasions.
10. If we know Isayama is the master of foreshadowing, then perhaps it's no coincidence that Armin is seen holding a shell multiple times, just as the Tybur family crest is also a shell?
11. I also want to cast your minds back to the Season 3 Anime scene where Armin sacrificed himself to defeat the Colossal Titan.
12. During this moment, the song 'ThanksAT' played, presumably to thank Armin for his sacrifice. Many people guessed that the AT meant Armin arlerT, or Armin Titan.
13. However, if we know OST's have predicted plot twists before; what if instead, ThanksAT means Thanks Armin Tybur?
14. Further, remember how the fandom predicted Zeke and Eren were related because both of their titans had pointy ears (as did Grisha's?) Well, then perhaps it is no coincidence that both Armin and Lara Tybur's titan form LACK obvious ears?
15. Importantly, as of Chapter 136, Armin and Zeke are in Paths together. If Armin is a Tybur, and Zeke is a Fritz; this could parallel with the ending of the past Titan War, where the Fritz and Tybur's teamed up to devise a solution.
16. Interestingly, the Fritz and Tybur's solution to end the past Titan War was to sacrifice their own people... (Chapter 137 leaks anyone?)
17. There are many possibilities as to where the manga could go from here. However, if Armin happens to survive (as he has been foreshadowed to be the 'saviour' of humanity, as well as the 'last one standing')...
18. Then considering Willy Tybur's death, this would make him the true Ruler of Marley. With Historia as queen, perhaps this would be a way to unite the two nations, once and for all?
19. In this outcome, Armin would be able to carry on Willy Tybur's legacy of changing the world's opinion of Eldian people. Finally, Armin's voice will be heard.
I first posted this theory on my tik tok (dedicated to AOT theories). You can see it here: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSoQ1Xyu/
