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Deku's double standards: saving shigaraki vs other villains

Debunking Deku's Alleged Double Standards | Fans React to Controversial Defenses

By

Fatima El-Sayed

Jul 22, 2025, 01:35 AM

Edited By

Liam O'Reilly

3 minutes (approx.)

Deku looks conflicted while reaching out to Shigaraki, who appears hurt and confused.
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In an ongoing debate within the fandom, many are questioning Deku's treatment of villains, particularly regarding his connection to Shigaraki. The discussion gained traction on forums, igniting differing opinions on whether Deku's actions display double standards when saving Shigaraki compared to other villains.

The Heart of the Debate

Dekuโ€™s relationship with Shigaraki is complex. According to fans, the bond stems from Deku's ability to empathize with Shigarakiโ€™s pain. One commenter noted, "Deku knows he wants to be saved, he just doesnโ€™t know why.โ€ This perspective sets Shigaraki apart from other villains like Muscular, who are seen merely as threats.

Another theme emerged around Deku's evolution as a hero. Before gaining a comprehensive view of villains, he approached situations with a mindset solely focused on fighting. However, after the encounter with Shigaraki, his understanding shifted. A fan pointed out, "Deku now sees that even villains may need saving." This is a significant moment in his character arc, indicating growth and a more nuanced approach.

Mixed Reactions From the Community

While some support Deku's actions, others express frustration. One commentator stated, "Peiple just want to complain about everything these days," reflecting a sentiment that some critiques are unfounded. Another lamented about the danger posed to lives during Dekuโ€™s attempts to save Shigaraki, suggesting that it might have been a miscalculation on his part.

Interestingly, another fan remarked on the media portrayal of different villains, contrasting Shigaraki with Dabi, by stating, "Dabi is a bitch end of discussion," showcasing extreme frustration towards some characters.

"This is about more than saving villainsโ€”it's about redemption," a comment highlighted, showcasing a deeper concern about character development in the narrative.

Key Points to Consider

  • Dekuโ€™s Empathy for Shigaraki: Many argue that his understanding of Shigaraki's background drives his will to save him.

  • Evolving Perspective: Deku's character growth suggests a shift in heroism, from fighting to empathizing with potential villains.

  • Community Division: Discussions reveal a split between fans supporting his heroics and those calling out perceived hypocrisy.

Takeaway Highlights

  • โ–ณ Empathy Matters: Deku's connection to Shigaraki showcases his emotional intelligence.

  • โ–ฝ Character Growth: Many note Deku's evolution since first encountering Gentle Criminal, now focusing on saving.

  • โ€ป "Is it really a double standard if the motivations are different?"โ€”A popular question within the discourse.

The ongoing dialogue hints at deeper layers in My Hero Academia, prompting fans to reflect on the nature of heroism in their beloved series. As debates continue, one thing is for sure: the conversations around Deku are far from over.

What Lies Ahead for Deku and Shigaraki

Thereโ€™s a strong chance the ongoing debates surrounding Deku's treatment of Shigaraki will continue to evolve. As the storyline progresses, experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that more revelations about Shigaraki's past will emerge, enriching fans' understanding of his motivations and perhaps even swaying more of them to empathize with him. This shift could lead to Deku taking further risks in trying to save other villains, potentially alienating some of his supporters who feel heโ€™s straying from traditional heroism. Additionally, the discourse within the fandom might spark new theories about how redemption can be portrayed in hero narratives, shaping future arcs significantly.

A Reflection on Historical Complexity

A lesser-known parallel can be drawn between the situation of Deku and Shigaraki and the dynamics of famous literary antiheroes, like Victor Hugoโ€™s Jean Valjean from Les Misรฉrables. Valjean's journey from a hardened criminal to a loving philanthropist mirrors the complexities of redemption explored in Deku's arc. Just as Valjean's past raises questions about morality and justice, Dekuโ€™s attempts to save villains like Shigaraki challenge conventional notions of heroism. This exploration creates a narrative space where understanding and humanity take precedence over traditional definitions of right and wrong, encouraging a dialogue about the nature of good and evil that echoes through time.