Ymir’s Astonishing Ability to Read: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Her Perceptiveness

In the Attack on Titan series, a pivotal moment occurs where Ymir reads the label on a can of food, a feat that others cannot comprehend. This ability symbolizes her unique connection to the past and her profound understanding of the history and culture of the Eldians. Let's delve deeper into the significance of this scene and the layers of complexity that surround it.

Ymir: A Pivotal Figure in Eldian History

Ymir, born as a street orphan among the Eldian people, was discovered by a cult leader and eventually became the cult's figurehead and spiritual leader. Being from Marley, a region outside the protective walls of Paradis, Ymir's background is marked by a different set of experiences and knowledge. Specifically, she was familiar with saltwater fish, which suggests her connection to the sea and coastal regions of Marley.

Rather than being just another member of the cult, Ymir's unique abilities set her apart. One of the most notable is her ability to read scripts that others, even those from Marley, cannot understand. This ability is not just a random curiosity but a significant narrative device that emphasizes themes of memory, legacy, and the burden of history.

The Language on the Can of Food

The episode where Ymir deciphers the contents of the can is particularly symbolic. The can is labeled with a script that others, including those supposedly from Marley, cannot read. This could be a form of ancient Marleyan script or even a script from an even older civilization. The fact that Ymir can read it underscores her profound connection to the past and her unique position in the narrative.

The can mentioned is labeled with 'herring,' a common saltwater fish. This detail is not just random; it ties directly to the type of fish previously discussed as familiar to Ymir. This further reinforces her background and the unique perspective she brings to the story.

Ymir’s Origins and the Outside World

Ymir’s origins are not within the walls of Paradis as many might assume. Instead, she hails from a time and place that is outside the direct influence of the walls. This places her at the intersection of the Eldian people and the outside world, making her an invaluable bridge between the past and the present.

The scenes from Chapter 38 provide additional context. Inside Utgard Castle, there are various artifacts and items that are not native to the people within the walls. These include a bottle of alcohol, a coffee grinder, and cups, all with labels in a script that others cannot read. Through piecing together evidence from these scenes, it becomes clear that Ymir is indeed from the outside world, having learned to read from an older civilization, possibly an ancient version of Marley or another civilization outside the walls.

Ymir’s Role in the Conflict

Beyond her linguistic abilities, Ymir’s role in the conflict is significant. She is not just a figurehead but a conduit between the Eldians and outside knowledge. Her understanding of the scripts and her past experiences within the cult make her a key element in the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the story.

It's worth noting that other characters, such as Reiner Braun, also exhibit the ability to read the outside world's scripts. However, Reiner's ability seems to have been suppressed for reasons of identity and avoidance of suspicion. This further underscores the unique and crucial role Ymir plays in the story.

Conclusion

Ymir’s ability to read the can of herring is more than just a curiosity; it is a powerful narrative device that emphasizes her connection to the past and her role as a bridge between the Eldians and the outside world. This ability not only provides critical insights into the history and culture of the Eldians but also highlights her unique position in the conflict and her significant contributions to the overarching story of Attack on Titan.