Who is Ubume in Demon Slayer? Light Novel character, explained

Modified Jul 11, 2024 15:30 GMT

Who is Ubume in Demon Slayer? (Image via Ufotable)

The question of who Ubume is in Demon Slayer is one that fans of the series often ask after coming across her name in various fan discussions. Ubume is a lower moon rank demon that mainly served as an antagonist in the series' light novels. Ubume's character is veiled with themes of motherhood and the perverse distortion of it after being turned into a demon. As such, there may be a thematic parallel to Sanemi's story.

Sanemi's journey began with the tragic necessity of slaying his own mother after she became a demon, setting him on a path of enmity against demons. This theme echoes when he later confronts and kills Ubume, an act that elevates him to the rank of Hashira.

Disclaimer- This article contains spoilers for the Demon Slayer series.

Demon Slayer - Ubume is integral to Sanemi's backstory

Nakime, one of the Twelve Kizuki as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

Ubume, the main antagonist in the series' third light novel spin-off, holds the prestigious title of Lower Rank 1 among the Twelve Kizuki. She is described as a petite woman with long, dark hair styled in braids, adorned with a crimson flower, and piercing blood-red eyes.

Initially, Ubume presents herself with a kind and caring maternal demeanor, treating her victims as if they were her own children. However, beneath this facade lies a deeply sadistic and cold-hearted nature.

Muzan Kibutsuji as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Ubume's history as Yae reveals a disturbing past where she murdered her abusive husband and inflicted horrific acts upon her sickly daughter, Sae, driven by a perverse euphoria derived from nurturing suffering. Even after Sae's death, Yae's obsession continued, leading her to become a demon through Muzan Kibutsuji's intervention.

As Ubume, she perpetuates her twisted motherly role by preying on children and victims, subjecting them to torturous care until their deaths, which she believes will spiritually reunite them with her. Those who resist are labeled as ungrateful traitors and meet grim fates, showcasing her profound cruelty and delusion.

Young Sanemi Shinazugawa as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Ubume's demise comes at the hands of Sanemi Shinazugawa, whose victory over her secures his position as a Wind Hashira. However, the tragic loss of his partner, Masachika Kumeno, at Ubume's hands continues to haunt Sanemi, further fueling his intense hatred for all demons.

Ubume's character is tied solely to the light novels, and she has not been mentioned in the anime series. Her overall theme suits the perverse and twisted themes that have been prevalent among the Lower Moons.

Final thoughts

Kokushibo, one of the antagonists of the final arc as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

Although the Demon Slayer anime is approaching its conclusion with its final arc being adapted into a trilogy of movies, there hasn't been much additional content following the manga's ending. However, it is quite possible that the light novels could be adapted into a mini-series or movie, possibly serving as a prequel to the main storyline.