Did Deku Give Up on Being a Hero in My Hero Academia?

Last Updated on 7 August 2024 by Arman Deep Sharma

The final chapter of My Hero Academia was released on August 5, 2024, stirring a whirlwind of emotions among its dedicated fanbase.

While some fans were sentimental about the conclusion of this epic saga, many were left bewildered by how the story wrapped up, especially regarding the fate of Izuku Midoriya, known to most as Deku.

The series finale presented a surprising twist: Deku ended his journey not as the number one hero, but as a teacher at U.A. High School.

This unexpected development raises a critical question: did Deku give up on his dream of becoming the greatest hero?

Let’s delve into the final chapter and examine the factors that might have influenced Deku’s ultimate decision.

The Surprising Conclusion

The final chapter opened with a startling revelation. Izuku Midoriya, once a passionate and aspiring hero, was shown addressing Shouta, a student, about their next class location.

This scene was set eight years after the climactic events that had defined the hero world.

Fans were left with a glimmer of hope that perhaps this time skip meant Deku would return to the heroics they loved him for.

However, as the story unfolded, it became clear that Deku had settled into his role as an educator, while his former classmates continued their heroic endeavors.

The Journey of His Peers

While Deku chose the path of teaching, his peers pursued their dreams within the hero society.

Characters like Uraraka, Iida, Tsuyu, and Momo devoted their lives to spreading awareness about the awakening of quirks.

Shouji championed the rights of heteromorphs, and Hatsume, the inventive genius, founded her own company supporting heroes with her technological innovations.

Significantly, Deku’s childhood rivals, Bakugo and Todoroki, ascended to the pinnacle of heroism, vying for the coveted position of the number one hero.

Even Aoyama, who had faced tremendous suffering, found his way back to the Hero Society, overcoming his past traumas.

Deku’s New Role

Deku’s transition to teaching came as a shock to many fans who had followed his arduous journey.

As a student, Deku was portrayed as a beacon of determination and courage, a quirkless boy who inherited the powerful One For All from All Might.

This quirk gave him the strength to stand against formidable foes and protect those in need.

However, the final chapter hints that Deku might have needed persuasion to continue his heroics, much like how All Might had once inspired him.

This crucial moment suggests that without a guiding force, Deku might have relinquished his dream of becoming the number one hero.

The series leaves the exact reasons for his decision ambiguous, allowing fans to speculate on what might have led Deku to choose a quieter life as a teacher.

Possible Reasons for Deku’s Decision

Fear and Insecurity

One plausible explanation for Deku’s decision could be fear and insecurity.

Despite mastering One For All, Deku’s journey was fraught with immense challenges and near-death experiences.

The burden of carrying such a powerful quirk, coupled with the constant threat from villains, might have taken a toll on his psyche.

The final embers of One For All within him could have felt insufficient to match the prowess of other top heroes, leading him to opt for a safer, more stable role.

The Desire to Inspire

Another interpretation could be Deku’s deep-rooted desire to inspire the next generation.

As a teacher at U.A. High School, Deku had the opportunity to shape young minds and guide future heroes.

This role allowed him to impart the values and lessons he had learned throughout his tumultuous journey, ensuring that his legacy lived on through his students.

By stepping into All Might’s shoes as a mentor, Deku might have found a way to contribute to society in a more impactful and lasting manner.

Avoiding Discouragement for the Quirkless

Deku’s unique position as a formerly quirkless hero might have influenced his decision as well.

He could have felt a sense of responsibility to not discourage those without quirks from pursuing their dreams.

By choosing to become a teacher, Deku showed that heroism could take many forms and that one didn’t necessarily need to be on the front lines to make a difference.

This decision could have been a conscious effort to provide hope and inspiration to those who felt powerless in a world dominated by quirks.

The Complex Nature of Deku

Izuku Midoriya, or Deku, was a flawed character from the very beginning. Introduced as a quirkless child with a burning desire to become a hero, he faced immense adversity.

His early years were marked by bullying and self-doubt, yet his determination never wavered. Instead of wallowing in his misfortune, Deku studied the heroes he admired, meticulously analyzing their moves and strategies.

However, one could argue that he should have focused more on physical training to prepare himself for the harsh realities of the hero world.

Had Deku not received One For All from All Might, he might have remained a local hero, making a difference in smaller, yet significant ways.

This hypothetical path underscores the notion that heroism is not solely defined by superpowers but by the willingness to help others, regardless of one’s abilities.

The Influence of All Might

All Might’s influence on Deku cannot be understated.

As the Symbol of Peace, All Might embodied the pinnacle of heroism, and his belief in Deku was a catalyst for the latter’s transformation.

All Might’s mentorship provided Deku with the confidence and resources to pursue his dream.

In the final chapter, it’s implied that Deku’s continued heroics might have required similar encouragement, suggesting that without such external validation, he might have chosen a different path.

Final Words

The final chapter of My Hero Academia left fans with mixed emotions and unanswered questions.

Deku’s choice to become a teacher instead of the number one hero was a poignant and thought-provoking conclusion to his journey.

It highlighted the multifaceted nature of heroism and the different ways one can contribute to society.

While some fans might feel disappointed by this ending, it’s essential to recognize the underlying message: heroism isn’t confined to the battlefield.

By becoming a teacher, Deku embraced a role that allowed him to nurture the next generation of heroes, ensuring that the values he cherished would endure.

In the end, Deku’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of heroism, a reminder that anyone, regardless of their abilities, can make a significant impact.

Whether on the front lines or in a classroom, Deku’s journey continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world.