The removal of eyewear as a symbolic act of revealing a character’s deeper, often more serious or determined, nature is a common trope in fiction. In the context of the character Tenya Iida from My Hero Academia, it represents a shift from his typically rigid and rule-bound demeanor to a more focused and intense state, often associated with heightened emotional states or crucial moments in battle. This visual cue signifies a departure from his usual, more controlled presentation, indicating a potential change in tactics or a heightened sense of purpose.
This transformative act serves several narrative purposes. It provides a clear visual indicator of character development and internal shifts, allowing the audience to readily grasp the significance of the moment without explicit exposition. It emphasizes the character’s commitment to a specific goal or ideal, often one tied to personal growth or overcoming a significant obstacle. Historically, removing glasses to reveal a “true” self connects to societal perceptions associating glasses with intellectualism or a lack of physical prowess. Shedding them can symbolize casting aside perceived limitations and embracing a more action-oriented persona.