The conclusion of the My Hero Academia manga has sparked intense debate among its dedicated fans. The unexpected fate of the protagonist, Deku, particularly his decision to retire from heroics, left many feeling dissatisfied. Chapter #430 has been seen as a departure from the manga’s central theme: the belief that anyone has the potential to become a hero.
A Shared Disappointment Among Fans
While some might argue that the final chapter is far from the worst anime ending, it nevertheless diminished the excitement surrounding its release. This sentiment can be likened to the anticipation surrounding the conclusion of Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece. Imagine the uproar if Luffy were to retire from his ambition of becoming the King of the Pirates in the series’ finale.
Deku’s Final Chapter: The Weight of Expectations
Chapter #430 marks a pivotal moment as readers see an adult Deku for the first time. In a surprising twist, it is revealed that Midoriya, having lost the Quirks within One For All, decided to abandon his hero dreams to take on a teaching role at U.A. High School. Although he remained committed to helping others, the conclusion left many fans feeling shortchanged. The narrative transitioned from celebrating the notion that anyone could be a hero to placing limitations on Deku’s aspirations.
Comparison to the Pirate King
What If Luffy Gave Up His Dream?
The disappointment surrounding Deku’s fate mirrors the potential outrage fans would express if Luffy’s journey ended without him reclaiming the title of King of the Pirates. Such an outcome would signify a betrayal of everything promised throughout the series, ultimately depriving fans of the finale they had eagerly anticipated.
Themes of Freedom in One Piece
Imagining Luffy Losing His Freedom
Freedom is a central theme in One Piece, with Luffy embodying this trait throughout the series. The narrative has repeatedly showcased that Luffy’s motivations stem from his desire for liberty, a concept that resonates deeply with fans. Imagine a scenario where Luffy is forced to relinquish his freedom and revert to his previous life: this notion encapsulates the disheartening conclusion presented in My Hero Academia. When Deku is stripped of his Quirks, it suggests that heroism is contingent upon possessing power, starkly contradicting the manga’s initial message.
The Epilogue: A Ray of Hope
Chapter #431: A Redemptive Closure
Fortunately for fans, Kohei Horikoshi provided a glimmer of optimism through what is now affectionately known as chapter #431, featured in volume #42 of My Hero Academia. This epilogue reconciles many of the lingering issues from chapter #430, highlighting Deku as a hero once more and confirming that his aspirations have not been forsaken. Most fans view this addition as a salvaged resolution, restoring some fulfillment to Deku’s narrative arc.
Despite the dissatisfaction stemming from the final chapter of My Hero Academia, Horikoshi’s storytelling remains celebrated and influential. Deku’s journey continues to resonate with readers, inspiring them with the timeless message that they, too, can be the heroes of their own stories.
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