Shouta Aizawa, the Pro Hero Eraser Head, stands as a central figure in hero education. His origins trace back to U.A. High School, where he forged close bonds with classmates Hizashi Yamada (Present Mic) and Oboro Shirakumo. Known as "the three dumbigos of Class A," they planned to launch their own hero agency post-graduation. A pivotal second-year moment saw Shirakumo gift Aizawa his goggles, later essential to Aizawa's hero costume for eye protection. Shirakumo tragically perished during a work-study mission shielding children from a collapsing building, an event haunting Aizawa's outlook and teaching philosophy. Shirakumo's body was later repurposed into the Nomu Kurogiri, a revelation causing Aizawa profound grief during the Paranormal Liberation War.
Physically, Aizawa possesses a tall, slender frame, messy black hair, half-opened black eyes, and a perpetually tired demeanor. His signature hero costume includes a black jumpsuit, utility belt, and a capturing weapon crafted from steel wire alloy and carbon nanofibers. Significant injuries mark his history: a scar beneath his right eye from the U.S.J. incident, the loss of his right eye battling Tomura Shigaraki, and a prosthetic right leg necessitated by self-amputation to prevent Quirk destruction. Eight years after the Final War, he adopted a shorter hairstyle and semi-retired from active heroics to concentrate on teaching.
Aizawa's personality is defined by sternness, logic, and apparent apathy. As Class 1-A's homeroom teacher, he employs rigorous training and "logical ruses"—deceptive tactics like false expulsion threats—to push students beyond their limits. Beneath his harsh exterior lies deep concern for his students' safety and growth, evidenced by life-risking actions such as shielding Tsuyu Asui from Shigaraki despite grave injuries. He also acts as guardian to Eri, overseeing her recovery and Quirk training post-rescue from the Shie Hassaikai. Shirakumo's death fundamentally shapes his teaching philosophy, driving him to ensure students become resilient heroes who avoid needless sacrifice.
His combat prowess centers on his Quirk, Erasure, which nullifies others' Quirks via eye contact. This power demands strategic use due to inherent constraints like dry eye, blink dependency, and ineffectiveness against mutation-type Quirks. He compensates with expert hand-to-hand combat, tactical intelligence, and masterful use of his capturing weapon, a skill requiring six years to perfect. Notable demonstrations include single-handedly holding off multiple villains at U.S.J. and critical contributions during the Shie Hassaikai Raid and Paranormal Liberation War.
Key relationships define him: an enduring friendship with Present Mic, who coined his hero name; initial clashes with All Might over teaching methods evolving into mutual respect; and a bond with Midnight, forged in their student days, tragically severed by her death in the Paranormal Liberation War, a loss he processed while prioritizing student safety. Among students, he mentors Hitoshi Shinso, recognizing parallels in their Quirks and underdog status. His dynamic with Izuku Midoriya shifted from initial skepticism to acknowledging his potential, while his understanding of Katsuki Bakugo's drive fueled steadfast advocacy for his heroic integrity.