Reader’s Question:
Isn’t the premise of My Hero Academia problematic? In the world of MHA, whether someone has a strong or weak Quirk is determined by their birth, and there’s no way to change that through hard work. It seems like a society where those who are simply born with better
abilities are the ones who succeed, and the idea that effort can’t overcome one’s origins feels frustrating. When we see Deku, who has no Quirk, receiving the incredible One For All, it seems to suggest that the author believes that without a strong Quirk, hard work doesn’t matter. It’s almost like they’re admitting that a story can’t be told without a powerful Quirk. Saying that the setting of MHA is amazing feels like saying that a society where effort is less important than birthright is something to be praised, doesn’t it?
Is My Hero Academia Really Problematic?
I’ve been thinking a lot about the questions surrounding My Hero Academia (MHA) and whether its premise is truly problematic. You know, that idea that your abilities—your Quirk—are determined by your birth and that hard work can’t change that. It’s a frustrating thought, isn’t it? It’s almost like the story is saying that if you aren’t born with a powerful Quirk, your efforts don’t matter. That’s a heavy message to carry. But then, I came across some user comments that got me reflecting. One pointed out that if you read the entire series, you’ll see that the story is all about growth, perseverance, and the idea that you can change both yourself and society. It’s like this journey where even Deku, who starts with nothing, proves that hard work can lead to significant change. I remember the first time I watched Deku struggle, and I felt a mix of frustration and inspiration. It’s that classic underdog story, right? The moments when he trains so hard that he nearly breaks himself, and yet he still keeps pushing forward, fueled by his dreams of becoming a hero. It’s inspiring! I mean, who hasn’t felt like they were at the bottom of the pile at some point, trying to reach for something greater? There’s this one scene where Deku faces off against Bakugo, and it’s packed with tension. You can practically feel the air crackling with their rivalry. The emotional stakes are so high, and it just hits home—how our efforts, friendships, and challenges shape who we become. It’s not just about the Quirks; it’s about the heart behind them. And let’s not forget about “Vigilante,” which some fans mentioned as a counter-narrative to MHA. It showcases characters with ordinary Quirks who find their own ways to shine, proving that you don’t necessarily need to be born with a powerful ability to make a difference. That’s a fantastic twist, don’t you think? It’s like MHA creates this rich tapestry of different perspectives on heroism. But I get it—some people feel like the series sometimes leans too heavily on the idea of birthright being a determinant of success. It’s a common trope in storytelling, and while it can be frustrating, it also reflects real-world issues of privilege and opportunity. It’s a conversation starter, at the very least. As I reflect on all this, I realize my own experiences play a part in how I view these stories. Like that time I tried to impress my kid by showing off some dad jokes, only to realize they were more cringey than funny. But hey, it’s all about trying, right? Just like Deku, we might not always hit the mark, but the effort counts for something. So, what do you think? Have you ever felt like you were fighting against your own limitations? Or maybe you’ve found inspiration in unexpected places? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Let’s keep the conversation going!
