There are a myriad of characters in Demon Slayer, and one of the strengths of the show is that each character seems to be unique and distinct. To make the characters memorable and easy to recognize, they have been given defining backgrounds and moments.
Of these, Zenitsu is a character that is portrayed extremely well. Coming off as weak and cowardly, Zenitsu seems to be a burden to the team rather than an asset. In moments of peril, Zenitsu’s comical tears and cries offer a degree of comfort and comedic relief.
But some moments are extremely pivotal in showing the development in Zenitsu’s character. For instance, Zenitsu’s battle against Kaigaku is one such defining event.
Zenitsu’s cowardly character required a lot of polishing
Zenitsu Agatsuma was an intriguing character from the very beginning. He served as a contrast to the young, yet daring characters of Tanjiro and Inosuke. But being a coward, it was a shackle and a tag he had to ultimately break out of.
Zenitsu’s character arc had a definite end. It was something that was set up from the very beginning. Zenistu’s master’s death and Kaigaku becoming his ultimate foe were an inevitable development. Only by defeating Kaigaku would Zenitsu’s growth be complete.
Kaigaku and Zenitsu were treated like sons by their master, Jigoro Kuwajima, the former Thunder Hashira. He trained Zenitsu in the Thunder Breathing style. Jigoro later committed seppuku to take responsibility for his other disciple, Kaigaku, who became a demon.
A character interaction I desperately wish happened…
byu/therealbreather inKimetsuNoYaiba
Zenitsu’s personality changed when his master passed, as the pain was rooted deep within him. Throughout the series, Zenitsu is underestimated; the only times he shines are when he is asleep. Zenitsu needed to prove himself and shine to become a true part of the Demon Slayer team.
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byu/therealbreather from discussion
inKimetsuNoYaiba
True power can only be displayed in an individual fight. Zenitsu had to take his revenge on Kaigaku by himself. His fight against an Upper Moon like Kaigaku, especially while conscious, showcased his courage. His talent and power were on full display, and he ended up creating his own form of the Thunder Breathing, clenching victory.
Gyomei’s vengeance would have diminished Zenitsu’s character arc
Zenitsu proved himself to be a true warrior; on the other hand, Gyomei has proven himself on multiple accounts. He is exceedingly strong, titled ‘The Strongest Hashira’. Gyomei was affected by Kaigaku as well, losing those close to him.
Gyomei decided to be a Demon Slayer and underwent a massive change. Gyomei was strong enough to fight the strongest Upper Moon. If he had fought Kaigaku instead, he would have finished him with just one form.
Zenitsu wouldn’t have the hype and fame he did, nor would he have the sense of achievement and relief. Zenitsu’s development during the fight is clear; he is no longer scared, but determined.
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byu/therealbreather from discussion
inKimetsuNoYaiba
His Hashira moment would have been stolen, had he not faced Kaigaku. It was also a moment of breakthrough, letting him unleash his own form of the Thunder Breathing Technique.
Zenitsu proved he was not a burden. If Gyomei assisted in the fight against Kaigaku, it wouldn’t be a true victory, or a complete one. Zenitsu’s development might have cost Gyomei his chance at revenge, but it was well worth it.
You can currently stream Demon Slayer on Crunchyroll.
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