Horikoshi's treatment of Gentle and La Brava in My Hero Academia highlights the series' major theme

Modified Sep 10, 2024 23:30 GMT

Gentle and La Brava in My Hero Academia reiterates the series — Gentle and La Brava in My Hero Academia reiterate the series' major theme (Image via Studio Bones)

The story arcs of Gentle and La Brava in My Hero Academia are noteworthy for their moving interpretations of the show's central themes. Kohei Horikoshi, the mangaka, is known to skillfully weave complex characters and storylines that delve into the essence of heroism and redemption in the series.

Gentle and La Brava's transformation from misunderstood villains to redeemed individuals serves as a powerful reminder that everyone has the capacity to change. In addition, it also showcases that society frequently has a significant influence on shaping one’s path.

Disclaimer: The article contains spoilers from the My Hero Academia manga series and reflects the author's opinions.

From villains to heroes: Gentle and La Brava find redemption in My Hero Academia

Gentle and La Brava when they are apprehended (Image via Studio Bones)

Gentle Criminal, whose real name is Danjuro Tobita, and his partner La Brava, or Manami Aiba, initially appear as minor antagonists in My Hero Academia. They may be criminals, but their true motivation is not hate but a need for affection and acceptance.

Danjuro's past is one of social rejection and repeated failure. Gentle was once an aspiring hero, but his hopes were dashed after several failed attempts to save others, which resulted in his expulsion from hero school and subsequent social exclusion. He was driven to a life of crime by this rejection, not out of malice but rather as a way to get the attention he so badly wanted.

Gentle after he stops prison inmates from escaping (Image via Studio Bones)

La Brava, on the other hand, was alone because of her unfulfilled love and hacking abilities, as she was cast out as a child for coming off as a stalker. Meeting with Gentle gave her a sense of purpose and belonging, and she became an unwavering endorser of his actions.

Gentle's battle with Deku forces him to face the flaws in his philosophy and the consequences of his actions. This confrontation keeps Gentle and La Brava from going down a darker path and starts them on a path toward redemption.

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Horikoshi highlights through this narrative that understanding and genuine connections can lead to redemption. Gentle and La Brava's choice to risk their lives in order to protect others and assist the heroes during the Final War demonstrates how they transformed from villains to independent heroes.

Gentle’s willingness to protect the students and La Brava’s hacking skills, which she uses to aid the heroes, earn them a second chance. Their redemption arc is a testament to the power of love, loyalty, and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance.

My Hero Academia: Shigaraki's tragic path

Shigaraki battling Deku as seen in season 7 episode 13 (Image via Studio Bones)

Tomura Shigaraki, born Tenko Shimura, represents a more tragic narrative in My Hero Academia. His descent into villainy is marked by a traumatic childhood and manipulation by his adoptive father All For One. In contrast to Gentle and La Brava, Shigaraki's journey is primarily driven by his internal resentment and battle against All For One's influence.

Shigaraki's fate, on the other hand, serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of neglect and the darker side of heroism. While he is freed from All For One’s control, he ultimately dies, leaving behind a legacy of tragedy.

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His change of heart comes too late to save his life, but it serves as a moving reminder of the potential for redemption even in the most tragic circumstances. Shigaraki's tale highlights the need to make an effort to comprehend and sympathize with others, no matter how late it is.

Final thoughts

Horikoshi frequently examines how a person's treatment by society can shape their destiny toward heroism or villainy. Along with Shigaraki, the mangaka's treatment of Gentle and La Brava enhances the examination of heroism, atonement, and the social influences that mold people in My Hero Academia.

While Shigaraki's tragic end emphasizes the effects of neglect and the complexity of redemption, Gentle and La Brava find redemption through understanding and connection. Collectively, these stories reaffirm the central themes of the series and offer an insightful perspective on our broad capacity for change.

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Edited by Janhavi Chauhan