The following contains spoilers for Mashle: Magic and Muscles Episode 5, "Mash Burnedead and the Unpopular Classmate," now streaming on Crunchyroll.
Mashle: Magic and Muscles is now available on MangaMonster
Mashle: Magic and Muscles is a clear parody of the wizarding world of Harry Potter, but it's also a lot more than that. The above-mentioned wizarding series is only partially referenced in its setting, which nevertheless has its own story and reasons. The show's anime roots are also pretty visible, even though several of its characters are unmistakably inspired by the Harry Potter series.
If Mash has to be compared to another character, then the one he most resembles is One-Punch Man's Saitama.
Saitama has quickly and readily gained his own followers in the anime community thanks to his charming nature.He does not pursue costly goals despite his unmatched strength. He tends to express his feelings over money and games, which motivates him more insignificantly. As demonstrated by the events of Mashle Episode 5, Mash and Saitama are made of the same material.
The Love of Cream Puffs that Mash Has Is the Same as Saitama's Love of Sales
Both Mash and Saitama share a peculiar trait of being mostly stoic and unemotional, not caring much about grave threats and dangers. What they do care about is something much more trivial. In the case of Mash, his love for cream puffs is his driving force.He'll do anything to keep his cherished cream puffs safe and indulge his sweet hunger. Episode 5's events serve as evidence for this. He only ever displays genuine rage in the anime when he believes his secret cream puff has been harmed. In a same vein, even meticulously following any recipe, he can only produce a cream puff.
Similar to Saitama, his primary motivation is his preoccupation with money. He is a hero for pleasure, and he only takes his heroic obligations seriously once he realizes there will be a reward. Saitama is always on the search for deals and rewards, and he will do anything to make money, including entering bizarre competitions. Mash and Saitama, however, have a sense of honor and decency despite their apparent materialism. When they witness injustices or when those close to them are in danger, they won't think twice before taking action.
Neither Mash Nor Saitama Will Let People Suffer
Mash and Saitama may have outwardly materialistic ambitions, yet they are also motivated by strong moral principles. Mash may have a cream puff obsession, but he also has a tremendous loyalty to and commitment to his buddies. He isn't afraid to face up to formidable foes or defend what he thinks is right, even if it means breaking the laws of his magical universe. In spite of having no magical talent, this is the major reason he decided to enroll in Easton Magic Academy.
Similarly, while Saitama is intent on living his life, he is frequently motivated by a desire to help others. He is usually there in critical situations, especially when people close to him are involved. Furthermore, both personalities show that it is possible to be both materialistic and morally motivated. Their love of the commonplace does not necessarily interfere with their sense of duty and fairness; rather, it is what makes them fascinating personalities.
