Why Did Kratos Cry at the End of God of War Ragnarök?
Kratos’s tears at the end of God of War Ragnarök weren’t just about sadness; they were a complex mixture of relief, acceptance, and a profound sense of hope for the future. Throughout his life, Kratos had been defined by violence, vengeance, and the fear of his own destructive potential. In the original prophecy, he was destined to die, perceived only as a harbinger of doom. He was seen as a symbol of war, and his fate was predetermined by the Gods. At the conclusion of God of War Ragnarök, he cries because he sees that he has defied his fate, and is seen as a beneficial leader and protector, not an instrument of death. This represents a monumental shift in his identity and legacy. He finally becomes the father and protector he always wanted to be, and Atreus is able to make his own decision regarding his path.
Understanding Kratos’s Journey
To truly understand the weight of this moment, one must consider Kratos’s tumultuous past. He carried the burden of his past mistakes. The Ghost of Sparta was a relentless warrior, driven by rage and a thirst for vengeance against the gods of Olympus. His actions led to countless deaths and widespread destruction, leaving him haunted by guilt and regret. After years of being only the “Ghost of Sparta”, he is seen as a leader and protector.
A Shift in Prophecy and Perception
The pivotal moment comes when Kratos witnesses the altered prophecy—a vision of himself being revered and worshipped as a benevolent god. It signifies that he’s broken free from the cycle of violence that had defined him. Throughout the game, Kratos actively works to change the future. This revelation allows him to see the impact he has had on others. He is no longer bound by the chains of his past, and he can finally embrace a future filled with possibilities.
The Weight of Regret and Redemption
Kratos’s emotional reaction is also fueled by the realization that his efforts to be a better father and mentor to Atreus have been successful. This new path proves that Kratos has learned from his mistakes and seeks to prevent Atreus from repeating them. He has become the father and protector he always wanted to be.
A New Legacy
The tears are a release of years of pent-up emotions, a cathartic acknowledgment of the profound transformation he has undergone. He has evolved from a god of war feared by all to a god respected and admired. The vision is an appreciation of Kratos, not a reflection of the Ghost of Sparta. It’s a symbol of hope that his legacy will be one of wisdom, protection, and guidance, rather than destruction and despair. His journey is one of change and redemption. The games delve into themes of parental love, forgiveness, and the ability to shape one’s destiny, a story that resonates with many.
Further Exploration of Themes in God of War
God of War as a series is a unique way to examine the human condition. These characters and the story as a whole examine the themes of legacy and what impact actions have on others. Exploring video games and these themes can enhance learning by fostering skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. For further information on how games enhance learning and provide educational experiences, please visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kratos
Why was Kratos crying when Atreus left?
Atreus leaving the Norse realm to seek out other giants was a bittersweet moment for Kratos. While he supported Atreus’s decision to follow his own path, it was still painful for him to say goodbye. The tears reflect Kratos’s love for his son and his understanding that Atreus needed to forge his own destiny. They also suggest Kratos’s fear of being alone again after having built such a strong bond with Atreus.
What mental disorders does Kratos have?
While not explicitly stated, Kratos’s behavior suggests characteristics of antisocial personality disorder stemming from trauma. This is evident from his early life as a spartan, and later in life as the Ghost of Sparta. These experiences lead to his destructive behavior. However, the God of War series emphasizes the possibility of change and redemption.
Why did Kratos cry when he saw his future?
As detailed in the article, Kratos cried when he saw his future because the prophecy depicted him as a revered figure rather than a bringer of death. This was an emotionally overwhelming moment of validation for his efforts to change his ways.
What is Kratos’s final prophecy?
Initially, Kratos’s prophecy foretold his death at Ragnarök and Atreus siding with Odin. However, Kratos and Atreus actively worked to change this future. The altered prophecy showed Kratos being honored and worshipped, signifying a break from his past and a future filled with hope.
Will Atreus see Kratos again?
The ending of God of War Ragnarök implies that Atreus will eventually return to Kratos. While he needs to explore his own path and reconnect with his Giant heritage, the bond between father and son suggests that they will reunite in the future.
Why was Atreus sick but not Kratos?
Atreus’s sickness stemmed from the conflict between his godlike nature and his belief that he was mortal. Kratos, unaware of his own divine heritage until later in life, did not experience the same conflict.
Did Kratos regret killing?
Yes, Kratos deeply regretted the killings he committed in his past, both those that he felt were deserved and those that were not. This regret fuels his desire for redemption and his commitment to protecting Atreus from repeating his mistakes.
Does Kratos feel regret killing Zeus?
Yes, Kratos seemed to regret killing Zeus. Though Zeus was a destructive force, Kratos’s act was an act of revenge. The games show how Kratos deeply regrets his past.
What was Kratos afraid of?
Kratos was primarily afraid of his own nature and how it would impact Atreus. He feared that his past deeds would come back to haunt him and that Atreus would learn to despise him for his violent history.
Has Kratos forgiven himself?
By the end of God of War Ragnarök, Kratos has begun to forgive himself. It’s an ongoing process but throughout his journey, he learns to move forward and embrace his new destiny.
Is Kratos depressed in God of War?
Kratos displays many symptoms of depression, including a lack of emotion, regret, sadness, and guilt. These emotions stem from the numerous losses and traumatic experiences he has suffered throughout his life.
What if Atreus put on the mask?
If Atreus had succumbed to fear and used the Mask as Odin intended, it would have empowered Odin to defeat Kratos, fulfilling the original prophecy. Kratos’s guidance helped Atreus make the right choice, ensuring that he would not repeat the errors of the past.
How old is Kratos?
In God of War Ragnarök, Kratos is estimated to be around 1,055 years old. As a demigod, he ages far slower than humans, allowing him to remain a formidable warrior.
Is there a secret ending in God of War Ragnarök?
Yes, God of War Ragnarök has a secret ending. After completing the main story, returning to Sindri’s House triggers an additional scene that provides closure and hints at future events.
Why didn’t Thor heal from Kratos?
Thor’s wound festered because of the Eitr imbued in the Leviathan Axe, Kratos’s primary weapon. The Eitr, combined with the World Serpent’s venom from when Kratos threw the axe into the Lake of Nine, made the wound incurable.