The latest chapter of My Hero Academia, Chapter 393, “A Girl’s Ego,” is yet another powerhouse from the beloved manga. Whether it be the fast-paced action or character drama that pulls on fans’ heartstrings, Chapter 393 delivers — and unlike its predecessor chapter, fleshes out the drama and character development for more satisfying results.
In My Hero Academia Chapter 393, Ochako and Himiko continue their duel from previous chapters. Within a series of flashbacks, the readers learn that Himiko was oonce offered a villain name, but rejected the notion and decided to use her real name, so she could live life on her own terms. During the battle, Himiko grows in power as Ochako does the best she can to try and reason with the girl she can attempt to save not only the city, but save Himiko as well.
The most striking aspect of My Hero Academia Chapter 393 is just how much of a punch to the gut it is. While the typical battle sequences expected from My Hero Academia are still present in this chapter, it’s ultimately more focused on the heart than it is on the fight that is unfolding in front of readers.
As Ochako pleads with the emotionally distraught and mentally disturbed Himiko, the word that comes to mind the most is “touching.” Ochako, one of the most sincere characters in the story, proves once again that there are several times when acting as a compassionate negotiator can be more effective than being a brawler.
The artwork, while being less in-your-face thanthe previous chapter, is gorgeous. Because the page count is higher, there’s more time devoted to character and plot development than Chapter 392. An interesting bit of world-building is also introduced in this chapter regarding why Himiko chose to reject the offer by the League of Villains to have her own villain name. To some of the villains, Himiko included, hero and villain names are propping up the hypocrisy that — as far as they’re concerned — professional heroes are known for, and the villains want to break free from the constraints of society.
The whole flashback is an intriguing way of showing that the world of heroes is not as squeaky clean as it appears to be and maybe the League of Villains has some shades of gray within. As My Hero Academia has shown, the League of Villains has a sense of community and look after each other. All in all, My Hero Academia Chapter 393 is a well-written character study of Himiko and a shining example of Ochako’s good-nature.