Tanjiro's kindness in Demon Slayer is unrealistic to a frustrating level

Modified Nov 18, 2024 15:30 GMT

Tanji͏ro͏ Kamado, the͏ protagonist of Demon Slayer, is renowned for his unwavering kindness and empathy, qualities͏ that set him apart in a brutal world filled with demons and͏ tragedy. However, for ͏some viewers,͏ this compassion often crosses into the realm of frustration.

His tendency to deal with some of the most rude characters in the series͏ with kindness can feel excessive and out of touch with the harsh reality surrounding him. Some fans argue ͏that Tanjiro’s relentless optimism undermines the͏ emotional weight of his journey, leaving fans yearning for a more vengeful, complex protagonist befitting ͏such a dark narrative.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author's views

Tanjiro's kindness may have gone overboard at times in the Demon Slayer series

A snapshot of Kamado Tanjiro (Image via Studio Ufotable)

For some viewers, Tanjiro’s constant compassion toward both allies and enemies feels excessive. His willingness to forgive demons, even after witnessing their cruel actions, can make it seem as though he prioritizes their humanity over the harm they caused. This frustrates fans who expect more righteous anger or vengeance in a world as brutal as Demon Slayer’s.

Tanjiro’s interactions with antagonistic characters, particularly humans who disrespect him, also contribute to this perception. For instance, his patience with Inosuke’s hostile behavior early in the series or his acceptance of Genya’s rough demeanor might seem unrealistic.

Even though he fought Inosuke for his behavior and stopped Genya from hurting Kanata Ubuyashiki, fans feel it could have been done sooner. Some viewers feel that Tanjiro should express more frustration in such moments rather than maintaining his calm and welcoming attitude.

A snapshot of Kamado Nezuko (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Nezuko͏’s characterization further highlights this frustration. ͏As͏ someone who lost her entire family and was turned into a demon, fans believe she should show more anger, especially toward the Hashira, who initially ͏doubted her and even attempted to͏ harm her. ͏While N͏e͏zuko’s kindness reflects her childlike innocence, critics argue that showing ͏more hostility or resentment would have made her character more relatable.

For fans who ͏prefer darker,͏ more vengeful protagonists, Tanjiro’s relentless optimism and compassion ͏might feel out of place in the unforgiving world of Demon Sla͏yer.

Demon Slayer: The dark side of Tanjiro’s kindness

Kamado Tanjiro is ruthless when it comes to taking down evil demons (Image via Studio Ufotable)

While Tanjiro is often portrayed as kind and forgiving, his character is far more layered. Beneath his gentle exterior is a strong, assertive side that surfaces when necessary. His kindness is not a sign of weakness but a conscious choice shaped by his experiences.

From the story's beginning, Tanjiro shows a willingness to act decisively, even if it means bending moral boundaries. For example, after Nezuko transforms into a demon, he is ready to fight a human to protect her, showing that he prioritizes his sister’s safety above all else.

His protective instincts often lead him to take strong action, as seen when he breaks Genya’s arm, headbutts Sanemi, and confronts Inosuke’s aggressive behavior head-on.

Tanjiro’s anger also emerges during battles, especially against demons who harm innocent people. He fearlessly challenges powerful foes like Rui, the Lower Moon demons, and Muzan, often pushing himself to the brink of exhaustion. In these moments, his determination and fury are clear.

His confrontation with Muzan in a crowded street and his relentless pursuit of Upper Moon demons highlight his ability to set aside his kindness when the situation demands it.

Even his empathy for demons has its limits. While he feels sorrow for their tragic backstories, Tanjiro never hesitates to deliver the killing blow. In one instance, he changes his fighting style to make a demon’s death less painful, balancing his duty as a Demon Slayer with his sense of compassion. This shows that his kindness is not a weakness but a strength that allows him to fight without losing his humanity.

Final thoughts

Nezuko in her Demon form (Image via Studio Ufotable)

While Tanjiro's kindness may seem excessive or unrealistic to some, it ultimately reflects his layered character - a balance of compassion and resolve. His empathy humanizes him in a brutal world, offering a counterpoint to the violence. Far from being a flaw, his kindness enhances the story's emotional depth and moral complexity.

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Edited by Shreya Das