All Might in My Hero Academia is portrayed as an anti-hero

All Might, the revered symbol of peace in the world of My Hero Academia, may appear as the epitome of heroism and righteousness, but a closer examination reveals a complex and nuanced character that aligns with the archetype of an anti-hero. While he embodies many qualities of a traditional hero, All Might’s treatment of Izuku Midoriya, his protégé and successor, unveils a manipulative side that adds layers of depth to his character.

In the early arcs of My Hero Academia, All Might was presented as the embodiment of justice and the shining beacon of hope. His charismatic persona and unwavering dedication to protecting society from evil earned him the admiration of many, including Izuku. However, beneath this façade of heroism lies a striking antihero streak, particularly in his relationship with Izuku. Rather than viewing Izuku as a foster son or a student, All Might often perceives him more as a means to an end, a tool to fulfill his own ambitions.

Antiheroes, as a narrative archetype, deviate from the conventional heroic mold. They possess a mixture of noble and morally ambiguous traits that set them apart from traditional heroes. All Might can be considered a “near-hero antihero,” as he demonstrates most of the characteristics associated with heroism but falls short in certain crucial aspects. While he risks his life to defend society and possesses the power to inspire others with his words and actions, his treatment of Izuku reveals a disregard for his well-being, ultimately leading to a complex and manipulative dynamic.

All Might’s primary concern is preserving the concept of the symbol of peace at any cost, even if it means making Izuku pay the price. Izuku’s journey as the successor of One For All comes with immense physical and psychological strain, which All Might knowingly imposes upon him. The toll of using One For All damages Izuku’s body, leaving permanent scars and nearly depriving him of the use of his arms. While All Might displays some level of concern for Izuku’s plight, it is clear that he foresaw these consequences. This calculated approach positions All Might as an antihero who subjects Izuku to great hardships for the sake of maintaining his own dream.

In contrast to other heroes who prioritize the well-being and growth of their students, All Might, along with his rival Endeavor, takes a different approach. They prioritize the mission and recognize that certain individuals, like Izuku, will suffer as a result. This morally ambiguous behavior challenges the societal expectations placed upon heroes, as they are typically depicted as valuing the development and protection of their students above all else. Endeavor’s similar treatment of his son Shoto has faced heavy criticism from society, suggesting that if All Might’s manipulative actions were exposed, he would face similar scrutiny for scarring and manipulating an idealistic and vulnerable boy to create a new symbol of peace, regardless of the cost.

Through All Might’s portrayal as a manipulative antihero, My Hero Academia delves into the complexities of heroism, showcasing that even those we perceive as paragons of justice may have darker shades to their character. All Might’s actions and their consequences invite contemplation on the ethical dilemmas heroes face and the potential moral compromises they make in their pursuit of maintaining peace and order in a world teeming with villains and chaos.

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Bakugo, Izuku, Mineta, Yaoyorozu, Awase, Kaibara