The idea of 'redeeming' a villain through proper upbringing is fascinating because it challenges the binary of good vs. evil. I’ve seen this theme explored in stories like 'My Hero Academia', where Shigaraki’s backstory hints at how different circumstances might have shaped him. But real redemption isn’t just about upbringing—it’s about choice. Even with a tragic past, a villain must actively reject their harmful path.
What intrigues me more is how narratives like 'The Last of Us Part II' show redemption as messy and incomplete. Joel’s actions, for instance, are morally gray, and Ellie’s journey forces players to question whether 'right' upbringing would’ve changed anything. Maybe redemption isn’t about erasing villainy but about acknowledging growth amid flaws. It’s why I love complex antagonists—they mirror real life, where people aren’t just products of their past but active participants in their futures.