Demon Slayer proves villains don't need complex backstories to be effective

Modified Sep 30, 2024 08:00 GMT

Characters without complex backstories are effective villains (Image via Ufotable)

The Demon Slayer series has a plethora of antagonists since the show is set in a world filled with demons. These antagonists come in all shapes and sizes. Despite the variations in their abilities, all of them are terrifying in their own way. Naturally, the ones who are more powerful have a better presence on screen, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t effective villains.

One of the things that sets this show apart is the writer’s ability to make the viewers empathize with demons. Some of them have complex backstories, which explain why they were forced to tread down this path. There are other demons, who have no inherent reason, and their actions aren't always fuelled by motives.

One thing that this shonen title has shown fans is that a villain doesn’t need complex backstories for them to be effective.

Disclaimer: This article contains massive spoilers from the Demon Slayer manga chapters.

Demon Slayer: Do villains in this series need complex backstories to be effective as antagonists?

Daki, Akaza, and Doma as seen in the anime series (Image ia Ufotable)

This is an interesting question that has been addressed during various discussions that take place on forums and social media platforms. To answer the question posed above, no, demons don’t need complex backstories for them to be effective antagonists. To substantiate this claim, fans can compare a few examples of demons with compelling backstories and those who don’t particularly have compelling backstories.

It is important to understand the role of an antagonist and the purpose they serve from a plot standpoint. A villain or an antagonist often stands for or believes in values that drastically contrast with the beliefs followed by the protagonist. Furthermore, some of the best villains have screen presence, pose a threat to the hero’s goal, and also arouse certain emotions among viewers.

Daki and Gyutaro as seen in the anime series (Image via Ufotable)

If we take a look at Daki and Gyutaro, they have a compelling backstory. There is absolutely no doubt that they were well-written villains who were strong and nearly killed Hashira and his teammates. However, a compelling backstory is not always required for an effective villain. If we take a look at Doma, he is a great antagonist for many reasons. The fact that the entire fanbase unanimously detests him also makes him an effective villain.

There is no compelling backstory and his beliefs are skewed. There isn’t anything in particular that he stands for. He does as he feels and often fixates on women. There is nothing about his personality that is likable, and as a character, there are absolutely no redeeming qualities.

Doma and Muzan as seen in the anime series (Image via Ufotable)

Not every villain needs to be written to appease the viewers, and Doma is a great example. Kibutsuji Muzan is another example since he was a coward until the very end. He held on to his life, had no honor, and showed more fear and cowardice than some of the weakest demon hunters in the series.

Despite that, Muzan was an effective villain in the Demon Slayer series. Both Doma and Muzan are characters that the entire fanbase hates. They managed to unite the viewers and strengthen their affinity for the demon hunters. An effective villain has this trait and therefore, compelling backstories aren’t always necessary when writing an effective villain in any form of media.

Stay tuned for more anime and manga news as 2024 progresses.

Related Links:

Edited by Madhur Dave