My Hero Academia: Why Endeavor Is the Series’ Most Divisive Character - July 2024

My Hero Academia: Why Endeavor Is the Series' Most Divisive Character

Highlights

Endeavor’s controversial past and questionable actions have left fans divided over his redemption arc in My Hero Academia.
Despite his efforts at atonement, fans are hesitant to forgive Endeavor for his history of abuse and manipulation towards his family.
Endeavor’s character, shrouded in moral ambiguity, stands out among other divisive characters in the series due to the gravity of his past offenses.

As a fan of My Hero Academia, I find Endeavor’s character to be one of the most intriguing and complex in the series. However, his past actions have left a deep scar that makes it difficult for fans to forgive him easily. The instances of domestic violence, coerced quirk marriages, and psychological torment inflicted on his own family are crimes that cannot be dismissed lightly.

The character cast of My Hero Academia is richly layered, but some complexities have sparked intense debates among fans. Characters like Dabi and Himiko Toga, who are inherently villainous, naturally ignite strong opinions. However, one hero stands out for his controversial past and the ongoing discussion about his redemption.

As a dedicated fan of “My Hero Academia,” I’ve seen quite a stir surrounding the enigmatic Endeavor. His past actions, such as being coerced into marriage for his quirk and allegations of domestic violence, have left many questioning his morality. Yet, season 6 brought about a significant transformation in his character, taking charge of Japan’s hero scene during its darkest hour. However, this change doesn’t erase the doubts cast upon him. Despite his efforts to make amends, fans remain divided over this complex and controversial character.

A Past Laced With Controversy

Endeavor Has Committed Several Atrocities in the Past

The intricacies of Endeavor’s past are shrouded in controversy, with numerous versions circulating regarding his violent history towards his own kin. His single-minded determination to outshine All Might propelled him to commit the first of many questionable acts: manipulating Rei’s family into an arranged marriage, solely for her Ice quirk.

In the beginning, this was the initial transgression of his actions, leading Toya to adopt his fixation with power. However, when his quirk posed a risk to her health, he could not persuade Toya to abandon her training. Instead, he channeled his wrath and discontent towards Rei, resulting in numerous episodes of domestic abuse. The accumulated stress pushed Rei to the brink of psychological collapse, ultimately causing her to throw boiling water on their son’s face.

Whenever I looked at my children, it was your eyes I saw staring back at me.

Despite his oversight, Endeavor persisted in separating Shoto from his loved ones for training purposes, designating him as his heir. Consequently, his decision caused irreparable damage to the family unit and significantly impacted the lives of Toya, Rei, Shoto, as well as Natsuo and Fuyumi. The consequences of child abuse, domestic violence, and emotional distress are not insignificant matters, leaving fans debating the moral complexity of Endeavor’s character.

A Chance At Redemption

Endeavor Walks a Path Of Atonement

My Hero Academia: Why Endeavor Is the Series' Most Divisive Character

The retirement of All Might marked a pivotal moment in Endeavor’s persona, as he came to terms with the fact that his long-held ambition to exceed All Might as the Symbol of Peace was no longer attainable. This revelation made him aware of the harm he had inflicted on his family. However, it wasn’t until Dabi unveiled himself as Toya, Endeavor’s firstborn son, that he fully grasped the severity of his actions. It was in that instant that Endeavor sought atonement.

The responsibility is not yours to bear alone.

After that pivotal point, Endeavor has steadfastly pursued the righteous path in both his role as a hero and a father. In his capacity as a hero, he brought Japan’s fragmented hero community back together to establish a unified force aimed at addressing the nation’s lawlessness. As a father, Endeavor mended relationships with his family and asked for their forgiveness, acknowledging the error of forcing his own aspirations upon his children.

Why Is the Fandom Split Over Endeavor’s Character?

Fans Refuse to Dismiss His Crimes

The series features a diverse cast of morally questionable and contentious characters, but none provoke as much controversy as Endeavor. Even though there are criminals like Toga and Dabi with records of violent crimes, fans can sympathize with their backgrounds and motives to some degree. However, this leniency does not apply to Endeavor.

Endeavor’s behaviors were driven solely by jealousy and self-serving motives, leading his children along a treacherous and difficult path. Some viewers believe that these actions make Endeavor appear more villainous than the acknowledged antagonists in the story, an assessment that holds merit. The fact that this abusive character has seemingly faced few consequences is another point of contention among fans.

Does Endeavor Deserve Redemption?

Endeavor’s Offenses Might Be Far Too Great For Redemption

In “My Hero Academia,” there are debates among fans about whether Endeavor should be forgiven for his past misdeeds. A significant portion of the fanbase strongly supports him, as demonstrated by his ranking as the sixth favorite character in a recent popularity survey.

You and I will work to stop Toya together.

From a gamer’s perspective, I can understand why some fans are hesitant about Endeavor’s redemption, given the severity of his past mistakes. Despite his fame, wealth, and heroic deeds, he hasn’t fully faced the consequences of his actions. The fandom is currently split on this issue, but with new developments in season 7, opinions may shift.

My Hero Academia is available to stream on Prime Video.

2024-07-13 20:04