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Émile Durkheim

Izuku Midoriya

Izuku Midoriya(緑谷出久,Midoriya Izuku), also known asDeku(デク,Deku), is the protagonist of theMy Hero Academiamanga and anime series created by Kohei Horikoshi. Although he was born without a Quirk in a world where nearly everyone has superpowers, Izuku’s determination to become a hero caught the attention of All Might, the world’s grea hero, who chose him as the successor of the powerful QuirkOne For All.

Izuku is a student at U.A. High School, where he trains to become a Pro Hero alongside his classmates in Class 1-A. As the ninth and final wielder ofOne For All, he strives to live up to All Might’s legacy and protect society from powerful villains.

Émile Durkheim
Born
David Émile Durkheim

(1858-04-15)15 April 1858

Épinal, France
Died 15 November 1917(1917-11-15)(aged 59)

Paris,France
Nationality French
Alma mater École Normale Supérieure
Known for Sacred–profane dichotomy
Collective consciousness
Social fact
Social integration
Anomie
Collective effervescence
Scientific career
Fields Philosophy, sociology, education, anthropology, religious studies
Institutions University of Paris, University of Bordeaux
Influences Immanuel Kant, René Descartes,Plato, Herbert Spencer,Aristotle, Montesquieu, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Auguste Comte. William James, John Dewey, Fustel de Coulanges, Jean-Marie Guyau, Charles Bernard Renouvier, John Stuart Mill
Influenced Marcel Mauss,Claude Lévi-Strauss, Talcott Parsons, Maurice Halbwachs, Jonathan Haidt, Lucien Lévy-Bruhl,Bronisław Malinowski, Fernand Braudel, Pierre Bourdieu, Charles Taylor, Henri Bergson, Emmanuel Levinas, Steven Lukes, Alfred Radcliffe-Brown, E. E. Evans-Pritchard, Mary Douglas, Paul Fauconnet, Robert N. Bellah, Ziya Gökalp, David Bloor, Randall Collins, Neil Smelser[1]

Appearance

Izuku Midoriyais somewhat shorter than average for his age, with a round face framed by dark green hair that tends to stick up in fluffy tufts. His large, round eyes are the same shade of green as his hair, and his innocent, energetic expression often gives him a youthful appearance. Izuku also has four distinct freckles arranged in a diamond shape on each cheek. Despite his rather plain looks, his heroism makes him stand out.

Initially, Izuku had a skinny physique, but his intense training with All Might helped him build significant muscle, which becomes more defined as he grows stronger throughout the series. After his battles with powerful opponents, such as Shoto Todoroki and Muscular, Izuku’s right hand and arm bear visible scars, which he covers with a black compression sleeve to protect the damage.

Clothing

During his time at Aldera Junior High, Izuku wore a standard black gakuran uniform with bright red sneakers. At U.A. High School, he dons the typical male student uniform—a gray blazer with turquoise trim, a white shirt, and a red tie. However, he continues to wear his signature red shoes instead of the usual brown dress shoes.

Hero Costumes

A collection of Durkheim's courses on the origins of socialism (1896), edited and published by his nephew, Marcel Mauss, in 1928

In this pivotal moment, Izuku Midoriya taps into the full potential of One For All, showcasing the strength and determination that define him as a hero. His unwavering spirit and growth as a character are exemplified in this climactic display of power, symbolizing his journey from a quirkless boy to a formidable hero.

Costume Alpha: Izuku’s first hero costume was made by his mother and featured a green jumpsuit, red boots, and a mask resembling All Might’s hairstyle. This costume was damaged in his first fight with Katsuki Bakugo.

Costume Beta: This version introduced sturdier materials and a more combat-ready look, featuring a darker teal color and improved protective padding. The design became sleeker, and Izuku started wearing arm braces to support his damaged arms.

Costume Gamma: This upgrade was made to accommodate Izuku’s “Shoot Style,” adding iron soles to his boots for stronger kicks, alongside additional straps and armor to support his movements.

Costume Delta: His fourth costume included special gloves designed by Mei Hatsume to enhance long-range attacks. The design became more streamlined, focusing on both offense and defense.

Costume Epsilon: After the Paranormal Liberation War, Izuku’s costume took on a darker, more worn-out look. He began wearing Gran Torino’s cape as a tribute to his mentor and frequently concealed his identity using his mask.

Costume Zeta: Following his recovery, Izuku’s costume was rebuilt, with new upgrades from Mei Hatsume, including enhanced gloves and gauntlets. The design returned to a darker green and gold color scheme, with Gran Torino’s cape now worn as a scarf.

Post-War Changes

Émile Durkheim's grave in Montparnasse Cemetery

In this intense scene, Izuku Midoriya gathers energy to unleash the full force of One For All. The determination on his face reflects his dedication to becoming a true hero, as he prepares to overcome any obstacle in his path. This moment highlights his growth and the immense responsibility he carries as the successor of the legendary All Might.

After his battle with Tomura Shigaraki, Izuku’s costume became heavily damaged, with his respirator and gloves torn, and his appearance taking on a more monstrous look due to the use of Blackwhip. Despite this, he continued to fight, using his powers at full capacity.

After the Final War, Izuku bears new scars on his face and hands, along with an undercut hairstyle. In the years following the war, Izuku grows taller and more mature, adopting a teacher’s role at U.A. High School, where he wears a formal black suit.

Personality

Izuku Midoriyais known for his kind-hearted, diligent, and selfless personality. Initially timid and insecure due to being born Quirkless, Izuku spent much of his childhood feeling inferior, especially under the constant teasing of his childhood friend,Katsuki Bakugo. His lack of confidence made him appear vulnerable, tearful, and socially reserved. However, after enrolling at U.A. High School and receiving the power ofOne For AllfromAll Might, Izuku gradually matured into a more determined and confident hero-in-training.

Izuku is highly analytical and thoughtful, with a habit of writing extensive notes about heroes, their Quirks, and combat strategies. This has helped him develop a sharp tactical mind, enabling him to quickly assess situations and come up with complex battle plans. Despite his strategic nature, Izuku is also impulsive, often rushing to help others in danger without concern for his own safety. His instinct to save others, even at the cost of his well-being, reflects his deep desire to be a hero in the truest sense of the word.

Though he initially struggled with confidence, Izuku’s strong sense of justice and empathy have earned him respect among his peers. His willingness to help others, even when it isn’t his responsibility, has led him to form bonds with those who were once antagonistic, such asShoto TodorokiandHitoshi Shinso.

Throughout his journey, Izuku shows a deep reverence forAll Might, his idol and mentor, and strives to live up to his legacy. His admiration for All Might fuels his relentless drive to become stronger and protect others. However, Izuku is not without flaws—his tendency to overexert himself and his lack of self-preservation often lead to serious injuries, which he eventually learns to mitigate as he adapts his fighting style.

Izuku’s compassion extends even to villains. After learning aboutTomura Shigaraki’stragic past, Izuku begins to believe in saving people, including villains, from their pain rather than defeating them outright. This mindset highlights his deep empathy and belief in the potential for redemption, even for those lost in darkness.

After theParanormal Liberation War, Izuku’s personality undergoes a temporary shift as he becomes more isolated and burdened by the weight of his responsibilities, driven by a desire to protect those he cares about. His time as a solo hero reflects a darker, more serious side of his character, but with the support of his friends and classmates, Izuku eventually returns to his compassionate and determined self, ready to face challenges alongside his allies.

In the years following the final battle againstAll For OneandTomura Shigaraki, Izuku becomes a teacher atU.A. High School, where he uses his experience to inspire the next generation of heroes. Though he eventually loses the remaining embers ofOne For All, Izuku continues to embody the heart of a true hero, driven by his unwavering desire to help others.

Abilities

Izuku Midoriya, originally Quirkless, possesses extensive knowledge of hero skills and tactics, having studied Pro Heroes for years before inheritingOne For AllfromAll Might. His understanding of combat fundamentals allows him to apply his knowledge in practical situations, even before gaining his Quirk. His natural bravery and strong desire to protect others caught the attention of All Might, who chose him as the successor of One For All.

Quirk: One For All

After inheriting One For All, Izuku gained the ability to harness immense energy, granting him superhuman strength, speed, and durability. Initially, using the Quirk came with severe drawbacks, often causing Izuku to break his bones. However, over time, Izuku developed techniques likeFull Cowl, which allowed him to use smaller percentages of One For All without injuring himself, significantly improving his combat abilities.

Combat Skills

Cover of the French edition of The Rules of Sociological Method (1919)

After a grueling confrontation, Izuku Midoriya’s smile embodies the resilience and hope that define his journey. This moment captures the relief and triumph that come from overcoming challenges, reflecting his unwavering belief in the power of friendship and teamwork. Despite the hardships faced, Midoriya remains committed to his dream of being a true hero.

Izuku has shown impressive combat skills, capable of holding his own against both fellow students and formidable villains. His analytical mindset and adaptability allow him to quickly devise strategies in battle, leveraging both his own Quirk and those of his allies. Izuku’s leadership and tactical abilities have earned him respect from his classmates, making him one of the key figures inClass 1-A.

Mastery of One For All

Izuku’s mastery of One For All has grown significantly throughout the series. He learned to control higher percentages of the Quirk, which increased his strength, speed, and endurance. In theParanormal Liberation War, Izuku demonstrated his ability to fight alongside Pro Heroes likeEndeavorandGran Torino. His grea feat was standing up againstTomura Shigaraki, holding his own against the enhanced villain who had inheritedAll For One.

Quirks Unlocked

Cover of the French edition of The Division of Labour in Society

Dressed in his signature hero uniform, Izuku Midoriya radiates determination and optimism. His smile reflects his passion for heroism and the dedication he brings to his training at U.A. High School. This image captures his unwavering spirit as he strives to become a symbol of peace, inspired by All Might and his friends.

Over time, Izuku unlocked additional abilities from previous One For All users, includingBlackwhip,Danger Sense, andGearshift. These abilities enhanced his versatility in battle, allowing him to outmaneuver enemies, detect danger, and increase his speed and power. He combined these Quirks to develop unique moves likeFaux 100%, making him even more formidable in combat.

Strength and Speed

Izuku’s physical strength has evolved to superhuman levels. Using One For All at full power, he can destroy massive objects and cause powerful shockwaves with a single punch. His speed has similarly increased, enabling him to move faster than the eye can see and dodge attacks from powerful opponents. At 100%, Izuku’s abilities rival those of All Might at his peak.

Endurance and Durability

Izuku possesses immense stamina and pain tolerance, often fighting through serious injuries. Even after breaking his limbs, he continues to push himself in battle. His training with All Might and later with Endeavor has made his body more resilient, allowing him to withstand the physical toll of One For All without being instantly incapacitated.

Leadership and Tactical Mind

Izuku’s quick thinking and ability to strategize in the heat of battle have made him a respected leader among his peers. He often devises plans that take advantage of his allies’ Quirks and opponents’ weaknesses, leading to victories in difficult situations. His ability to adapt in battle has allowed him to face stronger enemies, even under overwhelming odds.

Izuku’s grea strength lies in his determination. He refuses to give up, no matter the challenge or the personal cost. This trait has allowed him to overcome the immense pressure of inheriting One For All and inspires those around him to keep fighting. Even in the most dangerous situations, Izuku stands firm in his belief that a true hero is someone who saves others, not just defeats villains.

Former Quirks

One For All(ワン・フォー・オール,Wan Fō Ōru): Transferred fromToshinori Yagi(All Might), One For All allowed Izuku to store and unleash immense power, greatly enhancing his physical abilities. Izuku could focus this power on specific body parts or distribute it evenly, gaining superhuman strength, speed, and agility. However, due to his body initially being unprepared for such power, he suffered severe physical strain. Over time, with extensive training, Izuku mastered up to 45% of One For All’s power without injury, while 30% became his standard output.

Additionally, Izuku accessed theVestige World, where the consciousnesses of previous One For All users reside. He eventually gained the ability to communicate with these vestiges, learning from their experiences and harnessing their Quirks. However, during the final battle withTomura Shigaraki, Izuku transferred all of the remaining Quirks and One For All’s power to Tomura, leaving him with only the residual embers of the Quirk.

Former Quirks from One For All:

  • Gearshift(変速,Hensoku): The Quirk of the second user,Kudo, allowed Izuku to change the speed and velocity of any object or person he touched, enhancing his own speed and the force of his attacks. Evolved within One For All, it became a powerful ability used as a last resort. Izuku transferred this Quirk to Tomura during the Final War.

  • Fa Jin(発勁,Hakkei): The third user’s Quirk,Bruce, enabled Izuku to build and store kinetic energy through repetitive movements, which could be unleashed as bursts of power and speed. Izuku also transferred this Quirk to Tomura.

  • Danger Sense(危機感知,Kiki Kanchi): From the fourth user,Hikage Shinomori, this Quirk allowed Izuku to sense danger, manifesting as a sharp, painful sensation in his head. This ability took a toll on his body and was eventually stolen by Tomura.

  • Blackwhip(黒鞭,Kuro Muchi): The Quirk of the fifth user,Daigoro Banjo, generated tendrils of black energy, useful for grappling, mobility, and capturing opponents. Izuku transferred this power to Tomura.

  • Smokescreen(煙幕,Enmaku): The sixth user,En Tayutai, possessed the ability to produce thick clouds of smoke to obscure vision. This Quirk was also transferred to Tomura.

  • Float(浮遊,Fuyū): The seventh user,Nana Shimura, had the ability to float and suspend herself in the air, effectively granting her flight. Izuku transferred this Quirk to Tomura during their final confrontation.

Ultimate Moves

  • Detroit Smash(デトロイトスマッシュ,Detoroito Sumasshu): A powerful punch, inspired by All Might’s signature move. Izuku can perform it either as an uppercut or a straight punch.

  • Detroit Smash: Quintuple(デトロイトスマッシュ 五クイン重ティプル,Detoroito Sumasshu Kuintipuru): Enhanced by Gearshift, Izuku delivers five Detroit Smashes in quick succession.

  • Delaware Smash(デラウェアスマッシュ,Derawea Sumasshu): A flick of his finger generates a powerful shockwave of wind pressure, capable of breaking large obstacles.

  • United States of World Smash(ユナイテッド ステイツ オブ ワールド スマッシュ,Yunaiteddo Suteitsu Obu Wārudo Sumasshu): A move combining 100% One For All and a series of rapid punches followed by a powerful kick, generating immense force and air pressure.

  • Full Cowl(フルカウル,Furu Kauru): Izuku spreads One For All’s power throughout his body, improving his strength, speed, and agility without damaging his body. Over time, Izuku has increased the percentage of One For All he can safely use in this form, reaching up to 45%.

  • Delaware Smash Air Force(デラウェアスマッシュエアフォース,Derawea Sumasshu Eafosu): Using special gloves, Izuku fires compressed air blasts capable of stunning opponents mid-air.

  • One For All – 100%: Izuku channels the full power of One For All into specific parts of his body for massive attacks, but this can result in severe injuries to his limbs.

  • 1,000,000% Delaware Detroit Smash(1000000% デトロイトデラウェアスマッシュ,Hyaku-man Pāsento Derawea Detoroito Sumasshu): A powerful attack using adrenaline-fueled strength, combining Delaware and Detroit Smash to overpower his opponent.

  • Texas Smash(テキサススマッシュ,Tekisasu Sumasshu): A punch that creates wind pressure to blow away targets.

  • Wyoming Smash(ワイオミング スマッシュ,Waiomingu Sumasshu): A downward smash used to spike his opponent into the ground, creating a powerful shockwave.

  • Shoot Style(フルカウル シュートスタイル,Furu Kauru Shūto Sutairu): A combat style focusing on Izuku’s legs, allowing him to use One For All’s power in his legs for powerful kicks.

  • Manchester Smash(マンチェスタースマッシュ,Manchesutā Sumasshu): Izuku performs an aerial flip and delivers an axe kick to his opponent, pulverizing the ground beneath them.

  • Faux 100%(疑似 100%パーセント,Giji Hyaku-pāsento): By combining One For All at 45% with Fa Jin, Izuku can simulate 100% power without the typical recoil.

  • Faux 100%: Manchester Smash(疑似 100%パーセント マンチェスタースマッシュ,Giji Hyaku-pāsento Manchesutā Sumasshu): A powerful axe kick delivered with Faux 100% speed and power.

  • Blackchain(黒鎖,Kokusa): A combination of Blackwhip and Fa Jin, forming a chain to ensnare and launch opponents.

  • Overdrive(五速オーバードライブ,Ōbādoraibu): Izuku enhances his speed and power using Gearshift and Fa Jin, achieving a 120% output of One For All.

  • Deku Overlay(デク・オーバーレイ,Deku Ōbārei): Izuku uses Blackwhip to pull his muscles and tendons, simulating movement when immobilized, creating visible dark lines under his skin.

Equipment

  • Costume Zeta(コスチュームZゼータ,Kosuchūmu Zēta): The sixth version of Izuku’s hero costume, introduced after his previous outfit was severely damaged. This version retains the essential features of earlier iterations, including improved arm bracers and iron soles. Notably, the hood is removed, replaced by Gran Torino’s cape, which he now wears as a scarf. The mask, though damaged, remains part of the ensemble.

  • Iron Soles(アイアンソール,Aiansōru): These are special soles designed by Mei Hatsume to enhance Izuku’s kicking power. They absorb the impact of his kicks and redistribute the kinetic energy, amplifying the strength of each strike. Izuku requested these as part of his transition to a kick-focused fighting style.

  • Air Force Gloves: Designed by Mei, these gloves allow Izuku to channel pressurized air blasts by flicking his fingers, enabling him to perform long-range attacks with One For All. After being destroyed in the fight against Tomura Shigaraki, Izuku later receives an upgraded version from Mei.

  • Mid-Gauntlet(ミッドガントレット,Middo Gantoretto): Created after the Paranormal Liberation War, this device allows Izuku to safely use higher percentages of One For All without damaging his body. The gauntlet can handle significant power output, but breaks under 100% usage. It was partially destroyed in the battle with Lady Nagant but was later replaced with new replicas.

  • Full Gauntlet(フルガントレット,Furu Gantoretto): Originally created by Melissa Shield, the Full Gauntlet was designed to help Izuku safely utilize One For All’s power at higher percentages without self-injury. It was destroyed during the fight against Wolfram at the I-Island Expo.

Trivia

  • Early Concept: In the initial concept ofMy Hero Academia, Izuku was namedMikumo Akatani, featuring longer, curlier hair and an orange, more intimidating hero costume. He was originally Quirkless, relying on gadgets and luck to overcome obstacles. Kohei Horikoshi, dissatisfied with Mikumo’s design, reworked him into Izuku with shorter hair and eventually decided to give him a Quirk after suggestions from his editors.

  • Design and Personal Details:

    • Izuku’s surname (緑谷Midoriya) contains the kanji for “green” (緑midori) and “valley” (谷ya), while his given name (出久Izuku) includes “coming out” (出izu) and “long ago” (久ku). The kanji for “久” can also be read as “nine” (九), referencing him being the ninth holder ofOne For All.
    • His nicknameDeku(デク), originally an insult from Katsuki Bakugo, is derived from his given name and can mean “wooden puppet” (木偶deku), implying someone who is useless. However, Ochaco Uraraka sees it as empowering, interpretingDekuto mean “I can do it!” (できるdekiru).
    • His favorite food is Katsudon.
    • Izuku’s hero costume in its alpha version cost ¥40,380 ($370.53 USD) to make.
  • School and Academic Performance:

    • Student No. 18 in Class 1-A.
    • Ranked seventh in the U.A. Entrance Exam and fourth in mid-term grades.
    • Ranked twentieth (last) in the Quirk Apprehension .
    • Ranked in the Top 8 at the U.A. Sports Festival.
    • Scored seventy-one in the Provisional Hero License Exam.
    • Initially voted Class 1-A’s representative but passed the role to Tenya Iida.
  • Hero Stats:

    • His fifty-meter dash record is 7.02 seconds (previously 7.49 seconds in middle school).
    • His grip strength is 56 kg (previously 40 kg in middle school).
    • He threw a softball 705.3 meters using his Quirk (without it, 46 meters).
  • Popularity and Voice Actors:

    • Izuku ranked first in the series’ first popularity poll and ranked second in most of the following polls.
    • His child version is voiced by Akeno Watanabe, who also voices Mika Jiro and Midnight.
    • Izuku shares his birthday with Mirio Togata and Rapt Tokage.
  • Miscellaneous:

    • Izuku is listed in public records as having a Quirk namedSuper-Powerto protect the secret ofOne For All.
    • His later costumes were designed by the same creator who made Shoto Todoroki’s hero gear.
    • Izuku is one of the few characters in the series to wield multiple Quirks, possessing a total of seven at one point.

Quotes

  • To All Might:
    “I have to work harder than anyone else to make it! I’ll never catch up otherwise…! I want to be like you…! Like you. The strongest hero.”

  • To Katsuki Bakugo:
    “I’m not gonna be your worthless punching bag Deku forever… Kacchan. I’m… I’m the Deku who always does his best!”

  • To Shoto Todoroki:
    “Just trying to meet expectations! A smiling… dependable… cool hero… That’s what I wanna be! That’s why I’m giving it everything! For everyone! Your experiences… your determination… I can’t even begin to imagine what all that’s like… but… If you become number one without giving it your all… Then I don’t think you’re serious… about denying him everything! That’s why I have to win! I have to surpass you!”

  • To Tenya Iida:
    “I-I’ve got a lot to say to you, but… That’ll have to come later…! Because it’s like All Might said… Giving help that’s not asked for… is what makes a true hero!”

  • To All Might:
    “I’ll do my best! Whatever you say, All Might… I’ll step up to the challenge! As long as you’re by my side, I can do anything… That’s how I feel, anyway!”

  • To Kota:
    “If all the villains attacking tonight are on his level… everyone’s in trouble. And they might be after us students. I need to tell Mr. Aizawa and the Wild, Wild Pussycats what I know. If my actions can save any of them… Then I’ve gotta do something.”

  • To Overhaul:
    “If I can’t save one little girl right in front of me… Then how can I ever hope to be a hero who saves everyone?!”

  • To Nana Shimura:
    “I don’t know what I should do next, that’s true, and I get that the only way to stop him might be to kill him but… I wanna save that little kid!”

  • To Lady Nagant:
    “It’s not all black-and-white. Most things in this world are in shades of gray. A blend of fear and anger. Which is exactly why… I’ve gotta extend a helping hand!”