Hitch Dreyse: The Ordinary Soldier in an Extraordinary World
Introduction
Hitch Dreyse. In the sprawling epic of *Attack on Titan*, amidst titans, political intrigue, and world-altering revelations, she’s a character who often gets relegated to the sidelines. She’s not a titan shifter, she doesn’t possess Ackerman blood, and she’s certainly not spearheading any grand revolutions. Initially introduced as a somewhat cynical and seemingly lazy member of the Military Police Brigade, Hitch could easily be dismissed as a minor, comedic relief character. However, beneath the sarcastic remarks and apparent apathy lies a character of surprising depth and relatability. Hitch Dreyse, often overlooked, provides a vital grounded perspective within the apocalyptic landscape of *Attack on Titan*, representing the everyday struggles and relatable desires of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. She is a window into how most people would likely react to the horrors that surround them.
Initial Impression: Lazy or Realistic?
When we first encounter Hitch, she comes across as, well, unmotivated. She seems far more interested in securing a comfortable desk job within the Military Police than facing the dangers outside the walls. Her primary ambition appears to be avoiding hardship and enjoying the perks of her position. This initial portrayal often leads viewers to label her as lazy or self-serving. But is that a fair assessment? Perhaps a more nuanced interpretation is required.
Consider the world in which Hitch lives. For generations, humanity has been confined within walls, living in fear of being devoured by grotesque giants. The military is constantly understaffed, the political situation is fragile, and the future is bleak. In this context, is it truly “lazy” to prioritize self-preservation and a comfortable existence? Is it unreasonable to seek refuge in a system that, while flawed, at least offers a semblance of security?
Hitch’s pragmatism stands in stark contrast to the unwavering idealism of characters like Eren Yeager, with his burning desire for freedom, or Mikasa Ackerman, fiercely devoted to protecting Eren. While their motivations are admirable, they are also exceptional. The average person isn’t driven by such intense passions. The average person seeks safety, stability, and a modicum of happiness. Hitch embodies that average person, and in doing so, she provides a vital counterpoint to the more fantastical elements of the series. She questions the blind devotion to a cause that has brought little reward. She represents the weary acceptance of a world that offers little hope. She is the personification of survival instinct, not in the heat of battle, but in the everyday grind of a hopeless situation.
Hitch’s Relationship with Marlowe Freudenberg
The dynamic between Hitch and Marlowe Freudenberg is crucial to understanding her character development. Marlowe, a cadet brimming with righteous indignation and a fervent belief in justice, initially clashes with Hitch’s seemingly apathetic demeanor. He is disgusted by the corruption within the Military Police and determined to reform it from within, even if it means sacrificing his own comfort and safety.
Marlowe’s idealism serves as a constant challenge to Hitch’s pragmatism. He sees her potential and tries to ignite a similar spark of conviction within her. While Hitch often mocks Marlowe’s naivete, his unwavering belief in doing what’s right subtly influences her. She witnesses his genuine desire to make a difference, and even though she doesn’t fully embrace his idealism, she begins to question her own complacency.
Tragically, Marlowe’s idealism ultimately leads to his demise. He is killed during a mission outside the walls, leaving Hitch devastated. Marlowe’s death acts as a catalyst for change within Hitch, adding significant depth to her previously nonchalant attitude. The loss of someone who cared so deeply about justice forces her to confront the consequences of her own apathy and consider the value of fighting for something greater than herself. It is a turning point in her character arc.
Hitch’s Loyalty and Duty (Post-Marlowe)
Following Marlowe’s death, Hitch demonstrates a newfound commitment to her duties. While she doesn’t suddenly transform into a paragon of virtue, she begins to take her responsibilities more seriously. She actively participates in investigations, works to solve problems, and shows a surprising level of dedication to upholding the law, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. She does so in part to honor Marlowe’s memory, carrying on the pursuit of justice that he so passionately believed in.
While she still retains her sarcastic wit and dry humor, there’s a newfound seriousness beneath the surface. She may not be a frontline soldier battling titans, but she is a valuable member of the Military Police, working diligently to maintain order and protect the citizens within the walls. She demonstrates bravery not through grand gestures of heroism, but through her willingness to confront corruption, investigate crimes, and uphold her oath, even when it’s personally challenging. Her loyalty extends not just to the institution of the military, but also to the ideals of justice and fairness that Marlowe embodied.
Hitch’s Humor as a Coping Mechanism
One of Hitch’s most defining characteristics is her use of humor and sarcasm. In a world filled with death, destruction, and despair, humor serves as a crucial coping mechanism. It allows her to distance herself from the trauma and find moments of levity in the face of overwhelming darkness.
Her witty remarks and cynical observations often provide comedic relief in otherwise tense situations. They also serve as a way to express her frustration and disillusionment with the world around her. By making light of the absurdity of their circumstances, she can maintain a sense of control and avoid succumbing to despair.
Furthermore, Hitch’s humor can be surprisingly insightful. Her sarcastic comments often reveal uncomfortable truths about the political situation, the corruption within the military, and the hypocrisy of those in power. She uses humor to expose the flaws in the system and to challenge the prevailing narratives. Her humor is a mask, but behind it is a keen observer who sees the world for what it is.
Hitch’s Role in the Larger Narrative
While Hitch Dreyse may not be a central protagonist, her role in the larger narrative of *Attack on Titan* is significant. She provides a crucial human perspective amidst the epic battles and political machinations. She reminds us that even in the face of apocalyptic threats, ordinary people are still struggling to survive, find meaning, and make a difference in their own small ways.
She serves as a valuable source of information and support for the main characters. Her position within the Military Police allows her access to intelligence and resources that would otherwise be unavailable. She often provides crucial insights and assistance to the Survey Corps, helping them in their fight against the titans.
Moreover, Hitch’s presence enriches the world of *Attack on Titan*. She helps to create a more realistic and believable setting, by showcasing the day to day reality of someone not directly involved in the central conflict. She reminds us that not everyone is a hero, and not everyone is destined for greatness. Some people are simply trying to survive and make the best of a bad situation. And that, in itself, is a worthy goal.
Conclusion
Hitch Dreyse is a character who defies easy categorization. She’s not a hero, she’s not a villain, and she’s certainly not a stereotype. She’s a complex and multifaceted individual who embodies the struggles and desires of ordinary people living in extraordinary times. She is a vital, relatable character who offers a unique and necessary perspective within *Attack on Titan*.
Her initial cynicism and apparent apathy mask a deep-seated sense of loyalty, duty, and a growing belief in justice. Her relationship with Marlowe Freudenberg serves as a catalyst for change, pushing her to confront her own complacency and take responsibility for her actions. Her humor is a coping mechanism, a defense against the trauma and despair that surround her. She isn’t the main hero of this story, but she is the ordinary soldier who is forced to make hard choices in a difficult world.
In conclusion, while the world focuses on titan shifters, complicated family lineages, and political conspiracies, Hitch Dreyse should not be overlooked. Her character arc highlights the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of finding meaning in the face of adversity, and the enduring power of ordinary individuals to make a difference, even in the most extraordinary of circumstances. Hitch Dreyse is not just comic relief; she’s a reflection of ourselves, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.
