Levi is one of the most popular characters in the Attack on Titan anime and manga series. He is known for his cold, serious demeanor and his incredible skills as a soldier. However, some fans have questioned whether “Levi” is actually his real name, or if his true name is “Rivaille.” In this article, we’ll examine the evidence behind this theory and try to determine if Levi’s real name is indeed Rivaille.
The Case for Rivaille
There are a few key pieces of evidence that suggest Levi’s real name could be Rivaille:
Different Spellings in Anime/Manga
In the original Japanese anime and manga, Levi’s name is sometimes spelled as “Rivaille” instead of “Levi.” The katakana used is リヴァイ (rivuai). This alternate spelling has led some fans to believe his true name is meant to be Rivaille.
Name Meanings
The name “Levi” is typically interpreted as meaning “joined, attached” in Hebrew. However, the name “Rivaille” seems to be derived from the French surname “Rivaille” which means “of the riverbank.” This meaning seems to fit better with Levi’s backstory of growing up near an underground river in the capital.
Character Bios
Some official character bios and guidebooks list Levi’s name as “Rivaille.” While most refer to him as simply “Levi,” the fact that some reputable sources use “Rivaille” lends credence to the idea that it could be his real name.
The Case for Levi
However, there are also several reasons to believe his canon name really is Levi:
Overwhelming Majority Uses “Levi”
While there are select instances of his name being listed as “Rivaille,” the vast majority of official Attack on Titan media and references use the spelling “Levi.” In both the manga and anime, he is primarily referred to as simply “Levi.”
Intentional Alternative Spelling
Some argue that the instances of “Rivaille” are intentional alternate spellings meant to give insight into the character’s origins and background. Just as many characters have alternate names in their native languages, “Rivaille” could be an alternative French spelling while “Levi” is the common spelling.
Creator Comments
Attack on Titan creator Hajime Isayama has directly addressed this subject and stated that “Levi” is the character’s name. In a Q&A, when asked about the different spellings, Isayama confirmed that Levi is the official spelling.
Evidence Overview
Here is an overview of the key evidence on both sides of the debate:
| Evidence for Rivaille | Evidence for Levi |
|---|---|
| – Alternate anime/manga spellings | – Primary spelling used in manga/anime |
| – Name meaning connections | – Intentional alternate spelling |
| – Some character bios use Rivaille | – Creator confirmation of Levi |
Conclusion
After looking at all the evidence from both sides, it seems clear that Levi’s canon and official name is indeed “Levi” – even though some interesting alternative spellings like “Rivaille” exist.
The strongest pieces of evidence are the fact that the creator himself has confirmed “Levi” is his name and the overwhelming majority of references use this spelling. While the connections of “Rivaille” to his backstory are intriguing, these seem to be purposeful alternate spellings or translations, not proof his name is actually Rivaille.
There may never be a definitive answer, but the consensus agrees that Levi is his intended name. The instances of “Rivaille” likely exist to provide some symbolic insight into his character rather than to suggest it is his true name. So in conclusion – while not impossible, it seems highly unlikely that Levi’s real name is actually “Rivaille.” In all likelihood, Levi really is his canonical name.
Levi’s Background
Since this article focuses so heavily on Levi’s name, it’s also worth providing some background on Levi’s history for those less familiar with Attack on Titan. Here are some key facts about his character background:
Grew Up in Capital Underground
– Levi grew up in the underground districts beneath the capital city. He had a difficult childhood as an orphan living in poverty.
Recruited by Erwin
– Erwin Smith recognized Levi’s potential and convinced him to join the Survey Corps. This gave Levi a purpose in helping humanity fight the titans.
Gained Reputation as a Soldier
– Levi quickly established himself as humanity’s strongest soldier, known for his elite skills in using vertical maneuvering gear and blades. He gained acclaim and respect.
Made Captain of Special Operations Squad
– Due to his reputation, Levi was appointed as captain of the Special Operations Squad, an elite group of hand-picked soldiers.
Levi in Attack on Titan Story
Levi plays a pivotal role throughout the Attack on Titan story. Here are some of his key actions and story arcs:
Battle of Trost District Arc
– Levi helps lead the Survey Corps in the effort to plug the broken gate and retake Trost district from the titans.
Female Titan Arc
– Along with his Special Operations squad, Levi battles against the mysterious Female Titan who is targeting Eren.
Uprising Arc
– Levi helps fight to overthrow the corrupt royal government and helps install Historia as the new Queen.
Return to Shiganshina Arc
– Levi accompanies the Survey Corps on the vital mission to reach Eren’s basement and learn the truth about the titans, humanity, and the world.
Marley Arc
– After the time skip, Levi plays a key role in the attack on Marley and battles the Beast Titan once more.
Levi’s actions and choices have significant influence on the events of the story. He is one of the most skilled and important members of the Survey Corps.
Levi’s Popularity
One final topic worth exploring is the reason for Levi’s immense popularity among Attack on Titan fans. Here are some of the major factors behind why he is such a beloved character:
Cool, Calm Demeanor
– Levi has a blunt, detached, and cool persona that many fans find appealing. He often appears nonchalant.
Master Swordsman
– His graceful and lethal swordsmanship make him one of the most stylish fighters. Fans love watching him battle.
Mysterious Backstory
– His criminal past and life in the underground leave much to the imagination, intriguing many viewers.
Top Soldier Reputation
– Being known as humanity’s strongest soldier, Levi represents hope and skill in the war against the titans.
Leadership Abilities
– As captain, Levi shows tactical thinking and leadership even in dire situations, earning respect.
Dry Sense of Humor
– Levi has amusing deadpan quips, comebacks, and insults that give him an entertaining personality behind his very serious exterior.
There are many layers and attributes to Levi’s character that make him stand out as a unique and memorable character loved by Attack on Titan fans.
Summary
To summarize key points:
– While some instances use the spelling “Rivaille,” the evidence suggests Levi is definitely his official name intended by the creator.
– Levi has a compelling backstory growing up in the underground before joining the Survey Corps.
– He is regarded as a master soldier and plays a pivotal role in the Attack on Titan story arcs.
– Characteristics like his calm skill, leadership, mysterious aura, and dry wit make Levi a fan-favorite character.
So in conclusion, while the theory of his name being “Rivaille” is interesting, the beloved character fans know as Levi remains Levi. That is his true name in Attack on Titan canon. Hope this analysis helps provide clarity on this ambiguity over Levi’s name!