Summary
WhileMy Hero Academiawas believed at first to be only a series that largely emulates the style and action used in superhero comics where the extraordinary characters just save the day and often lack depth when it comes to their ideals,Kohei Horikoshi’s story stands out from others for its reflection about what it means to be a hero.
My Hero Academiahas resonated with fans, showing the story of howIzuku Midoriya and his friends became the greatest heroes, and this was only possible thanks to its author’s vision of what heroism is.
In a recent interview,My Hero Academia’s author revealed his unique perspective and definition of what makes a true hero, proving why the series is so special.
My Hero Academia Revealed the True Reason Villains Are Born With One Subtle Final Hint
A subtle callback in chapter 427 of My Hero Academia reminds fans that villains aren’t just created out of nothing, and that they can be stopped.
My Hero Academia’s Creator Believes Anyone Can Be a Hero
MHA’s Author Thinks That People That Offer Their Support to Others Are Heroes
My Hero Academia’s creatorrevealed ina recent interview with VIZ Mediawhen asked what being a hero means to him, that his initial concept of heroism has changed with the years.Horikoshi first believed that a hero consisted of those people who seemed to be capable of feats that were unattainable by others, such as characters like Goku and remarkable people like One Piece’s creator, Eiichiro Oda. However, Horikoshi later began to appreciate a completely different idea of what a “hero” was: those who support, extend a helping hand or offer encouragement to others.
“As I entered my 30s, I began to appreciate those people nearby who offer support, which ties into the current story of My Hero Academia. My appreciation has been growing toward the people who extend a helping hand or offer encouragement. For example, Imamura-san, my editor, has been a huge supporter. I’ve grown to see these everyday helpers like him as heroes too. So now, I think anyone can be a hero, including those who support me closely”. - Kohei Horikoshi
Horikoshi’s words express that he believes that everyone can be a hero, showing that his concept of heroism goes far beyond someone who represents something purely fantastic to seeing them in people who are willing to help others in everyday life. The author also shared that his perspective is reflected inMy Hero Academia’s story.
My Hero AcademiaHas Always Challenged the Concept of a True Hero
Characters Like Stain and All Might Have Opened up Debate About the Figure of Hero in the Story.
Not only hasMy Hero Academiaquestioned what makes some characters good or bad,but it has also challenged the true definition of a hero in a society where they constitute a typical job and something taught in school. This is seen in characters like Stain, who finds most pro-heroes fake and undeserving of their title, seeing them as idols who are only interested in money or status, so he takes it upon himself to judge them and later has a change of heart.
Also,My Hero Academia’s story first presented All Might as the true hero, the most powerful symbol of peace, and someone who, even when putting his life at risk, does it with a smile, who without fear stands up and faces the threat alone. But later it was shown throughout the story that his mentality of shouldering everything alone wasn’t right, proving how accepting help from others is the way to win.
My Hero Academia’s Message Is What Makes the Series So Special
A Quote by All Might Summarize the Essence of a Hero
The core of the story ofMy Hero Academiais how heroes help others without being asked; this was a quote said by All Might in the U.A. Sports Festival Arc, after Deku lost the fight against Todoroki for helping him to accept his own power:
Giving help that’s not asked for is part of what makes a true hero—All Might, chapter 40.
This quote is constantly reminded throughout the story; Deku says it to Ida when he goes to save him in his fight against Stain inMHAchapter 52. Later, Ida repeats the quote to Deku when trying to reach him inthe Dark Hero Arcchapter 321. This showcases that being a true hero is not about strength but having a genuine desire to help others. Just as Deku tried to save Tenko, heroes are often involved in other people’s affairs because of their compassion; they are upstanders, people who help others in need.
My Hero Academiashows Deku’s journey after All Might told him he could become a hero even without a quirk. But the story and the words of its author, Horikoshi, have confirmed that Deku was a hero from the start, as he was willing to risk himself to save Bakugo from the Sludge Villain, even after he told him to go away.
My Hero Academiateaches that everyone can be a hero, influencing the viewers to be considered to other people and offer a helping hand to those in need, even if they haven’t asked for it.My Hero Academia’s message is that giving support to others makes heroes and a better world, and that’s what makes the story so special.
My Hero Academia
Cast
Anime series My Hero Academia follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world where most have them. Despite his lack of abilities, he enrolls in a prestigious hero academy, striving to learn the true essence of heroism and fulfill his dream of becoming a hero.
