Deku’s Ending in My Hero Academia: Why Fans Misinterpret It as Tragic When It’s Truly Inspiring

The conclusion of My Hero Academia‘s manga has stirred up mixed feelings among fans, particularly regarding the decision to remove Deku’s One For All Quirk and his new role as a teacher. While some fans may express dissatisfaction, I argue that Deku’s Quirklessness is a positive development, and he should have remained Quirkless throughout his journey. In fact, inheriting One For All was never a requisite for his evolution into a hero.

Many fans may disagree, but Deku’s relentless motivation and unwavering spirit demonstrate clearly that a Quirk was never essential for him to fulfill his dream of becoming a hero. Although the One For All Quirk certainly amplified his abilities, Deku possessed the creativity and resourcefulness to succeed at U.A. High without it. This approach would have sent an inspiring message: that individuals without Quirks can also embody heroism.

The Role of All Might’s One For All Quirk in Deku’s Journey

Deku’s Resilience and Creativity Were Key

Before acquiring One For All, Deku grappled with feelings of inadequacy due to his physical limitations. At a low point in his journey, All Might recognized Deku’s innate potential and chose him as a successor, despite others believing he should select a more naturally gifted candidate. The characteristics that define heroism—unwavering values and a yearning to save others—were evident in Deku from the very start, and All Might identified these admirable traits almost immediately.

It is commendable that All Might’s Quirk was transferal, but I contend that even without it, his decision to pass it to Deku would have remained justified due to the latter’s inherent potential. For ten months, Deku committed himself to intense training, developing a strong physique in preparation for One For All. His readiness to train rigorously and improve himself is a clear testament that he could thrive as a hero, regardless of having a Quirk.

Leveraging Support Equipment: A Viable Path for a Quirkless Deku

The Utilization of Support Items by Heroes

Numerous Quirkless and temporarily Quirkless characters, as well as those with Quirks, have effectively utilized support items during battles. This trend exemplifies that it would be entirely plausible for Deku to rely on such innovations in his hero pursuits. For instance, when All Might faced great vulnerability during his final confrontation, he donned an advanced supersuit called Armored All Might, which he later allowed Bakugo to utilize. Had Deku chosen to remain Quirkless, he could have created a similar suit to enhance his combat capabilities.

Deku is no stranger to leveraging support items, frequently brainstorming new ideas at the Department of Support. When the ramifications of One For All threatened his physical integrity, he designed a protective wristband called Full Gauntlet to prevent severe injuries. Given his inventive flair, it’s reasonable to believe he could have excelled as a Quirkless hero using the right tools, alongside the insights gleaned from his extensive study of hero techniques and abilities.

Inspiration for the Quirkless: A Path to Heroism

Deku as a Beacon of Hope for the 20%

One of the most compelling reasons for Deku to remain Quirkless is his potential to serve as a source of inspiration for others without powers. Becoming a hero devoid of a Quirk would communicate that achievements are attainable regardless of one’s limitations. Deku, who already resonates with many as the series’ most relatable character, could have further solidified his status by demonstrating that superpowers do not define heroism.

Although the majority (80%) of the populace in My Hero Academia possesses Quirks, Deku’s journey as a Quirkless individual could have profoundly influenced the 20% like himself, most of whom harbor dreams of heroism yet believe such aspirations are out of reach. By confronting formidable foes such as Stain, Overhaul, Shigaraki, and All For One without a Quirk, Deku could have served as a powerful testament that Quirks are not necessary to achieve greatness and safeguard society.

Intrinsic Heroism Beyond Quirks

Authentic Heroism Flows from Character

The essence of what renders Deku a hero in My Hero Academia lies not in his Quirk, but rather in his steadfast commitment to justice, remarkable work ethic, and unfaltering creativity. His relatability is what earmarks him as one of anime’s most inspiring protagonists, and remaining Quirkless would have only amplified this virtue—pressuring him to draw upon his tenacity and intellect to achieve success. Certainly, the journey toward heroism would have posed additional challenges for Deku had he forwent One For All, yet I firmly believe he would have still realized his aspirations.

Though some fans express disappointment at Deku’s character arc—transitioning from a Pro Hero to a teacher after the loss of his Quirk—this conclusion wonderfully encapsulates his potential. My perspective is that Deku should have embraced a Quirkless path from the outset. While many viewers might contend that his heroic journey has reached its conclusion, that view is mistaken. Deku maintains access to essential support items and the unwavering determination that distinguished his earlier days in My Hero Academia.

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