My Hero Academia’s Kohei Horikoshi: As My Hero Academia approaches its conclusion after a decade-long journey, creator Kohei Horikoshi reflects on the nature of heroism and the realistic portrayal of his characters. Despite being framed within the fantastical world of superheroes, the series stands out for its commitment to depicting the nuanced and often gritty realities of its characters’ lives.
The Essence of Heroism According to Kohei Horikoshi
Kohei Horikoshi’s vision of a hero extends beyond the grandiose and idealized figures often seen in superhero lore. As the manga nears its finale, Horikoshi has shared his evolving perspective on what it means to be a hero. In an exclusive interview with Viz Media, Horikoshi expressed that his definition of heroism has become more inclusive and grounded in everyday experiences.
Reflecting on his journey, Horikoshi mused, “If I could articulate it clearly, I probably wouldn’t be drawing manga. Initially, heroes were those on a different level from me—like [One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda] or fictional characters like Goku from Dragon Ball.” This sentiment underscores the shift in his understanding of heroism from distant, larger-than-life figures to recognizing the contributions of those around him in his personal and professional life.
Horikoshi noted a significant change in his perspective as he entered his thirties, which is mirrored in the narrative of My Hero Academia. “As I entered my 30s, I began to appreciate those people nearby who offer support,” he explained. This appreciation extends to everyday individuals who provide encouragement and assistance, such as Imamura-san, his editor. “I’ve grown to see these everyday helpers like him as heroes too,” Horikoshi added. This broader definition of heroism reflects the series’ current storyline, where the focus shifts to the aftermath of a long and tumultuous battle, illustrating the idea that heroism can manifest in many forms, including the quiet acts of support from those closest to us.
A Realistic Portrayal of Struggle and Imperfection
My Hero Academia distinguishes itself from many other shonen series by embracing the harsher realities of its world. Rather than presenting a consistently triumphant narrative, Horikoshi ensures that the story remains grounded by depicting the physical and emotional toll on its characters.
In a conversation shared on the BokuNoHeroAcademia subreddit, Horikoshi emphasized, “It’s actually not a really glorious story at all, as All Might grows weaker every day and Izuku gets injured every now and then.” This candid portrayal of struggle is a deliberate choice, reflecting the real-life difficulties and imperfections that define the human experience.
The series does not shy away from showing the costs of heroism. The protagonists, All Might and Izuku Midoriya (Deku), are portrayed as vulnerable and flawed. All Might’s gradual decline and Deku’s frequent injuries serve as reminders that even heroes are not immune to the physical and mental burdens of their duties. These depictions enhance the relatability of the characters, making their victories all the more meaningful. Their heroism is not defined by invulnerability but by their resilience and willingness to face adversity head-on.
The Human Side of Heroes: All Might and Deku
In My Hero Academia, All Might’s transformation from a symbol of ultimate power to a frail mentor underscores a key thematic element of the series: the inevitable decline that accompanies age. Unlike many anime heroes who retain their strength into old age, All Might’s struggle with physical decline and his eventual decision to pass on his Quirk, One for All, to Deku provides a poignant commentary on the impermanence of power.
Despite his legendary status, All Might’s journey is marked by significant challenges. His inability to use One for All for extended periods without experiencing exhaustion and weakness contrasts sharply with the typically unassailable heroes of the genre. This vulnerability not only humanizes him but also amplifies the impact of his eventual retirement and the transition of his legacy to Deku.
Deku’s own journey is marked by intense physical strain and injury, reflecting the series’ commitment to portraying the costs of heroism. Unlike many anime heroes who are born with innate powers, Deku must undergo rigorous training and endure repeated harm to master his inherited Quirk. His perseverance despite these hardships underscores the central theme of the series: true heroism involves not only overcoming external challenges but also confronting and managing one’s own limitations and vulnerabilities.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Realism and Depth
As My Hero Academia nears its conclusion, Kohei Horikoshi’s commitment to realism and character depth stands out as a defining feature of the series. By presenting a nuanced view of heroism and depicting the genuine struggles faced by its characters, the manga offers a compelling and relatable narrative that resonates with readers. The final chapters promise to explore the aftermath of the conflict and the ongoing journey of its heroes, providing a thoughtful and profound reflection on the nature of heroism and the human condition.
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