Tanjiro Kamado of Demon Slayer doesn’t really adhere to the norms that other shonen protagonists follow. Far from an unruly rebel, Tanjiro tempers every decision he makes with compassion for other living beings, regardless of whether they are humans, animals, or even demons. However, there are moments where Tanjiro’s inner darkness takes complete control over him, leading to near-disastrous consequences.
Although his patience is impressive, it is clear that Tanjiro isn’t exactly mature at the beginning of his character arc. Tanjiro’s knack for making friends and empathizing with his enemies set him apart from his peers, but he undergoes a long, self-reflective journey before he evolves into the best version of himself.
10 Tanjiro Strives To Cure His Sister Of Her Affliction
Tanjiro carries his demon sister on his back everywhere he goes, but never once considers her a burden. As the only surviving (human) member of his family, Tanjiro dedicates himself to helping Nezuko adjust to society.
Despite all the evidence to the contrary, Tanjiro strongly believes in the possibility that his sister will one day return to humanity, even if he has to scour the whole world for a potential cure. Tanjiro’s devotion is one of the many features that illustrate his selflessness.
9 He Takes On A Leadership Role In His Family
Being the firstborn son of Tanjuro and Kie Kamado, Tanjiro is given domestic responsibilities long before his siblings. His parents teach him the importance of protecting their family, a lesson that Tanjiro lives by for the rest of his life.
Tanjuro’s impact on his son is shown to be significant — Tanjiro adores and respects his father to the point of carrying on the latter’s duties after he dies. The Kamado children all look up to Tanjiro as their new guardian, a role that he takes on without hesitation.
8 Tanjiro Expresses Admiration For His Opponents
There are several shonen anime heroes who express admiration for their opponents, especially in the heat of battle. Tanjiro is no exception. During the battle in Drum House, Tanjiro struggles to defeat his carnivorous opponent, Kyogai, whose only thoughts seem to be about consuming “rare blood.”
The Drum Demon uses his Blood Demon Art to great effect, forcing Tanjiro to remain on the defensive for a major chunk of the fight. The hero eventually gets the better of Kyogai, but proceeds to congratulate the demon’s technique. This admission alone is proof of Tanjiro’s humility.
7 He Accuses Akaza Of Being A Coward
Tanjiro can tolerate quite a bit, but the one thing he cannot bear is abject cowardice. Watching Akaza flee after killing Kyojuro, Tanjiro flies into a rage and accuses him of being a coward. Although admittedly incautious, his actions reflect a deep understanding and adherence to combat ethics.
Tanjiro despises anyone who refuses to respect their opponents, and he doesn’t hesitate to make his opinion known. Tanjiro later obtains closure for his short-term mentor’s death by killing Akaza.
6 Tanjiro Convinces Shinjuro To Be A Better Father
Shinjuro Rengoku, Kyojuro’s father, turns into an abusive, heartless drunk after his wife’s passing. He takes his anger out on his two sons, both of whom are forced to become self-reliant. Tanjiro pays a visit to the Rengoku household, fulfilling his promise to Kyojuro, where is stunned to observe Shinjuro’s violent demeanor.
Tanjiro stands his ground and blames the older man for neglecting his children. Shinjuro retaliates by picking a fight — he and Tanjiro lock heads for a brief battle. Fortunately, Tanjiro’s anger helps Shinjuro come to his senses and start fixing his broken life.
5 He Risks His Life Even When He Doesn’t Need To
Tanjiro bristles at any instance of unfairness, and he’s usually the first person to charge into a fight in order to protect innocent folk. That being said, Tanjiro’s zeal for justice frequently drops him on the verge of death.
This behavior can be interpreted as simultaneously noble and reckless, indicating Tanjiro’s maturity but also his inexperience. Tanjiro doesn’t mind the idea of sacrificing his life for the greater good, though, which is why he enters every battle with ironclad determination.
4 Tanjiro Doesn’t Hesitate To Seek Assistance If Necessary
Tanjiro ends his character arc as one of the most powerful characters in Demon Slayer, courtesy of his spectacular growth rate. He’s not really weak at any point in the story, either. However, Tanjiro sees nothing wrong or shameful about asking for assistance whenever the situation calls for it.
In comparison, Inosuke bluntly rejects offers of help because he believes himself the greatest warrior of all time. On the opposite end of the spectrum is Zenitsu, who cowers at the sight of danger. In other words, Tanjiro doesn’t let his overwhelming strength fill his head with delusions of grandeur.
3 He Understands The Limits Of His Powers
Tanjiro gradually develops increasing confidence in his capabilities over the course of Demon Slayer. His Water Breathing techniques receive a considerable augmentation when he unlocks his Sun Breathing.
Though there are occasions where Tanjiro’s eagerness results in him going overboard, he generally understands his limits and tries his best to stay within them. Tanjiro’s self-restraint concerning his weaknesses is the main reason behind most of his victories.
2 Tanjiro’s Maternal Instinct Is Arguably His Best Feature
Tanjiro exudes a maternal aura — radiant beams of warmth and compassion extend in all directions from his person. He regularly insists on conflict resolution tactics as opposed to outright combat.
Despite his martial career as a Demon Slayer, Tanjiro’s philosophy is rooted in nonviolence, a stance that few in his profession seem to embody. In many ways, Tanjiro subverts the rough-and-tumble stereotype associated with shonen anime protagonists. His emotional instincts invariably guide him on the path to adulthood.
1 He Refuses To Fight For Bloodlust, Vengeance, Or Hatred
Tanjiro’s empathy for sentient beings is universal, regardless of their nature. Unlike the majority of individuals who become Demon Slayers, Tanjiro doesn’t fight to satisfy his craving for bloodlust, vengeance, or hatred.
In fact, it can be argued that he feels nothing but pity for his demon opponents, especially those who regret their crimes. Tanjiro’s actions are the exact opposite of malicious — the Mother Spider Demon perceives his kindness and mercy even as he decapitates her.
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