Demon Slayer's core theme refutes the "all style and no substance" allegations perfectly well and fans often fail to realize it

By Mudassir Kamran

Modified Sep 23, 2024 10:30 GMT

Demon Slayer challenges the belief that it lacks substance, as critics often dismiss the story as a mere spectacle. The anime takes place in the Taisho era in Japan, destroyed by demons, and introduces the protagonist - a young boy named Tanjiro Kamado who loses his family and has his sister Nezuko turned into a demon.

Although some fans argue that Demon Slayer's core theme lacks valuable lessons and role models, a closer look reveals deep themes of compassion and sacrifice. All these elements enrich the narrative and also elevate it beyond simply being entertaining, thus showing how Demon Slayer actually rebuts the claims made against the series that it's "all style and no substance."

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author's opinion and contains spoilers from the Demon Slayer series.

How Demon Slayer is more than just all style, explored

Tengen Uzui as seen in anime (Image via ufotable)

Demon Slayer's beautiful visuals and extremely dynamic action sequences often steal the show, but to dismiss it as mere style overlooks the solidity of themes and character development that the story has in store. At its core, the story is an explanation of the very essence of being human and the value of life in all its forms.

The main character of the story, Tanjiro, demonstrates compassion even in tragedy. His undying love for his sister Nezuko, who has become a demon, removes any idea of unconditional bonds within families. Such a relationship is one sign of taking care of those you love who suffer from illnesses or addictions, showing empowerment from sympathy and support.

Hakuji and Koyuki as seen in manga (Image via Viz Media)

Themes of teamwork and found family are also constant throughout the series. Relationships between Tanjiro and his fellow demon slayers show how shared struggles unite people with diverse backgrounds.

This is evident in the characters, such as Zenitsu and Inosuke, who at first appeared to provide comic relief but eventually grew to serious strength by finding ways to overcome fears and limitations through friends and persistence.

Demon Slayer also tackles the complexity of morality. While the demons may be the bad guys in this story, a lot of them are shown with complex pasts and, therefore, human qualities. The viewer is called upon to consider the circumstances that make people as they are and to ponder the possibility of redemption even among bad people.

The way it treats death is particularly poignant. Characters are put in a scenario facing mortality and fear, but along with accepting it, they make their lives meaningful. It shows Japanese cultural attitudes toward death, challenging viewers to think about their legacies.

Enmu as seen in anime (Image via ufotable)

Traditional and intergenerational knowledge also plays an important role in the series. Most of the techniques of breathing passed down from family members and mentors underpin the importance of cultural heritage and wisdom.

Demon Slayer is a message of living life in its full complexity, with darkness and terrible sufferings all over the world, but also with the capacity of human beings to embrace resilience, growth, and connection.

Final thoughts

Nezuko as seen in anime (Image via ufotable)

Demon Slayer beautifully avoids being tagged as the "style over substance" kind of plot and infuses warmth, family, and good morality into the storyline, showing depth that many critics would overlook. The ride with Tanjiro and his companions shed light on the depth of human experience in all its fragility; only with compassion can strength stand for a community.

The series not only celebrates strength in adversity but also compels viewers to reflect on personal values and connections. The narrative portrays a poignant exploration of what life entails, as it affirms the truth that its substance lies beneath stunning visuals and thrilling action.

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Edited by Janhavi Chauhan