Kratos’s Revelation: What Did He See After Atreus’s Departure in God of War Ragnarök?
After the emotionally charged departure of his son, Atreus, Kratos is left with the poignant task of reflecting on his journey. This moment of solitude in God of War Ragnarök reveals a profound and unexpected truth about Kratos’s destiny and legacy. Following Atreus’s exit, Kratos turns his attention to the shrine initially used to reveal the prophecy of Ragnarök. He discovers that this shrine, previously used to depict the Giants’ prophecy about him as the hero of Ragnarök, has another side. It’s on this hidden panel that Kratos witnesses a recap of his own life. However, this recap wasn’t about his past in Greece, the one filled with violence and vengeance, but rather a powerful illustration of his more recent past: his transformation in the Norse universe. He sees himself leaving the Greek pantheon behind and his efforts to raise his son in this new environment. But more significantly, he sees a large depiction of himself, not as the feared and hated Ghost of Sparta, but as a god being worshipped. This reveal is an overwhelmingly emotional experience for Kratos.
A Path He Never Imagined
This image of Kratos as an object of reverence and adoration stands in stark contrast to the life he has always known. Throughout his existence, Kratos has been either feared or despised; this new vision is far removed from his perceived character. He isn’t seeing a history of destruction and death, but a path of purpose and, dare it be said, a form of salvation. This visual confirmation is a dramatic shift in the perception of his existence, and it profoundly affects Kratos. Overcome with emotion, he breaks down in tears, confessing to Mimir and Freya that he has seen “a path he never imagined.”
This moment is not just about Kratos seeing the new mural. It is about the culmination of his journey throughout the Norse saga and his internal changes. This revelation brings immense joy and relief to Kratos, allowing him to accept the path he has forged for himself and his son. He now sees that he has transcended his past as a vengeful god and has found redemption by becoming a better father to Atreus.
The Significance of the Shrine
The shrine itself is critical to this revelation. It acts not merely as a display of prophecy but also as a mirror reflecting Kratos’s evolution. The Giants, often considered figures of wisdom and vision in Norse mythology, depicted a future where Kratos was not merely a pawn of fate but a figure of significance and respect. This portrayal highlights that Kratos wasn’t just changing his actions but his very destiny. He was evolving from a God of War, known for carnage, into a new type of deity, one capable of love, responsibility, and even admiration. It signifies the profound transformation he has undergone, a path of redemption built on his sacrifices and love for Atreus.
Kratos’s Emotional Response
The fact that Kratos, a character typically associated with stoicism and violence, breaks down in tears underscores the magnitude of this moment. This is not just sorrow or despair; it is a release of years of repressed emotions, a catharsis brought on by seeing himself in a completely new light. It’s the validation that his transformation and redemption are real, tangible, and recognized by the ancient forces that shape the world. This vulnerability showcases his growth and serves as a testament to the depth of his character development.
The scene is further emphasized by the presence of Mimir and Freya, who also bear witness to this emotional shift. Their reactions add a layer of validation and acceptance, confirming that Kratos is indeed on a different path. For Mimir, this is perhaps the culmination of his hope, as he has guided Kratos throughout this journey, witnessing the change first hand. For Freya, this is a sign of hope for the future and a validation of the trust she placed in him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding Kratos and Atreus, which provide further details and context to the story:
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What happens to Kratos after Atreus leaves?
After Atreus embarks on his solo journey, Kratos, along with Freya, is tasked with cleanup duty across the Nine Realms, which involves completing missed side quests and missions. -
Was Kratos crying when Atreus left?
No, Kratos does not cry when Atreus leaves, although it is an emotionally charged scene. Kratos states, “Loki will go, but Atreus remains.” It is after discovering the mural depicting his own worship that he breaks down in tears. -
What happened after Atreus pushed Kratos?
After Freyr’s sacrifice, Atreus pushes Kratos through a rift, though he eventually reunites with Kratos and Angrboda in Midgard. The reasons for his initial stay are unclear. -
Does Sindri forgive Atreus?
No, Sindri does not forgive Atreus for the foreseeable future. He distances himself from Atreus after the bear attack, considering Atreus’ actions deeply hurtful. -
Why does Kratos cry at the end of Ragnarök?
Kratos cries because he sees himself worshipped as a god, symbolizing his redemption and transformation. This contrasts with his previous image as a feared figure, and it signifies a fundamental change in how he’s perceived. -
Will Kratos see Atreus again?
Yes, although Atreus leaves on his journey, he eventually returns to Midgard to reunite with Kratos and Angrboda. -
What is Kratos’s final prophecy?
The initial prophecy hinted at Kratos’s death during Ragnarök and Atreus joining Odin. This is something that they both actively work to subvert during the game. However, the ending showcases a revised and much brighter future for Kratos. -
Did Kratos stop calling Atreus “boy?”
Yes, Kratos no longer calls Atreus “boy” in God of War Ragnarök, a departure from the previous game where this became a signature phrase. -
Why is Atreus called Loki?
Atreus’s true name is Loki, which was chosen by his mother, Faye. The name holds greater significance to the audience than to either Kratos or Atreus. -
What is next for Atreus?
The next phase of Atreus’s journey is to find the Giants and possibly establish a new life for them. The next God of War game may feature Atreus as a man, facing new challenges and threats. -
Where is the real Tyr?
The real Tyr can be found in the Aesir Prison Wreckage area of Niflheim after the main story as part of the “Broken Prison” favor. -
Where did Atreus go at the end of Ragnarök?
Atreus initially departs to fulfill his destiny and is later shown to be back in Midgard. It’s important to note he was shown alive and well in Midgard despite some of the story suggesting he could have been hurt. -
Who does Kratos regret killing?
It is largely implied that Kratos particularly regrets killing his father, Zeus. This regret seems to weigh heavily upon him throughout the saga. -
Will the next God of War game be about Atreus?
The end of God of War Ragnarök leaves the franchise open to many new directions. A future installment could very well be centered on Atreus, as he continues on his own path. -
Did Kratos ever change his fate?
Yes, Kratos manages to change his prophesized fate by choosing a more peaceful path, avoiding his death during Ragnarök. This change is heavily influenced by Faye and Atreus.