Sanemi's reason for trying to harm Genya was flawed, and the strongest Demon Slayer Hashira proves it

Modified Jun 12, 2024 21:30 GMT

The Demon Slayer series has been nothing short of entertaining, despite the overall restlessness among fans as it entered season 4. However, the animation studio has done a brilliant job with the addition of numerous anime-original scenes. This injected the current story arc with some life, given how little was covered in the manga.

Sanemi Shinazugawa received a ton of screen time in the previous two episodes. His explosive fighting style, paired with his short-tempered nature, made him quite popular among fans. However, fans weren't happy to see him treat Genya the way he did. Furthermore, his actions wouldn't result in the best outcome, and this can further be proven by the very existence of Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira.

Demon Slayer: Sanemi’s choice to hurt Genya cannot be justified

Sanemi as seen in the anime series (Image via Ufotable)

Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, is someone who rarely shows signs of empathy. He was portrayed as a bad character since he stabbed Nezuko and was never apologetic about his actions. However, the reason for his behavior is tied to his past. We know that Sanemi and Genya are siblings who lost their mother at a very young age. Furthermore, Sanemi had to deal with his younger brother accusing him of killing their own mother.

Despite everything that happened in the animanga series, Sanemi only wanted his brother to live a happy and fulfilling life. He didn’t want his younger brother to risk losing his life by constantly waging wars against demons. When Genya refused to leave the Demon Slayer Corps despite being berated by his elder brother, Sanemi’s anger reached new heights.

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In a fit of rage, he lunged towards Genya with the full intention of taking his eyes out. The vigor with which he approached Genya could have blinded him permanently. Tanjiro Kamado’s intervention was required in order to save Genya’s eyesight. Sanemi’s attempt to gouge his eyes caused a cut on Genya’s face. However, Genya’s resolve was indomitable, and one can’t help but wonder that his loss of sight would not have stopped him from working on his skills as a demon hunter.

Gyomei Himejima’s very existence is proof that Genya could have continued being a demon hunter if he chose to do so. If Sanemi damaged Genya’s vision, it would have been in vain since Genya would not have walked out of the Demon Slayer Corps. The Stone Hashira was born blind and therefore had enough time to train and become the strongest Pillar. While Genya wouldn’t have reached Gyomei’s level, he certainly could have found a way to rely on his other senses and help the Corps in any way that he could.

Sanemi Shinazugawa and his younger brother Genya do not get along in the anime series (Image via Ufotable)

Tanjiro’s actions saved Genya, giving him the ability to aid the organization with little to no hindrance. Later on in the manga, Genya’s contributions become paramount in some of the most crucial moments in the manga series.

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

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Edited by Somava