Demon Slayer is approaching its finale as both the manga has concluded and the anime gears up for its final arc featuring the Infinity Castle film. Since its inception, this captivating series has enthralled audiences with a storyline that balances simplicity and depth. While some fans have appreciated the narrative direction, many have expressed a desire to explore alternative outcomes, particularly surrounding key character arcs.
The predominant source of these “what if”scenarios stems from a section of fans who are dissatisfied with certain plot choices. A notable example revolves around the character of Rengoku. Fans frequently speculate how the story may have unfolded had the Fire Hashira survived, potentially allowing Tanjiro to evolve into a formidable Tsuguko under his guidance.
Moreover, a significant faction of the fanbase believes that Tanjiro should have faced Kokushibo instead of Muichiro. This missed encounter is often cited as one of the major disappointments of the series. Many argue that a confrontation between Tanjiro and Kokushibo would not only have been an electrifying battle to witness but also rich in symbolism, echoing the historical clash between Kokushibo and his brother Yoriichi.
Below, we explore the reasons why a showdown between Tanjiro and Kokushibo would have been a game-changer for the storyline.
Disclaimer: The following discussion presents a speculative theory based on the author’s perspective and may contain spoilers.
Exploring the Potential of a Tanjiro and Kokushibo Encounter
A defining characteristic of Demon Slayer is its intentional pairing of characters, creating meaningful interactions that resonate with audiences. Koyoharu Gotouge meticulously chose combatants whose backstories enhance the stakes, as seen in the clash between Kaigaku and Zenitsu. This connection is equally present in the intense battle between Doma and Shinobu Kocho.
Yet, the absence of a battle between Tanjiro and Kokushibo signifies a missed opportunity for one of the series’ most compelling encounters. This match-up holds particular weight as Tanjiro embodies the legacy of Yoriichi, Kokushibo’s brother, having inherited the Sun Breathing techniques from his ancestors, marking him as a significant figure in Muzan’s eyes. This could have further motivated Kokushibo to pursue Tanjiro, leading to an epic confrontation.
Historically, Kokushibo’s last skirmish with a Sun Breathing user was against Yoriichi, culminating in a defeat that lingered in his memories. An encounter with Tanjiro could have served as a cathartic moment for Kokushibo while providing Tanjiro with a crucial lesson about power and its corrupting nature. The dichotomy of Kokushibo’s Moon Breathing Technique versus Tanjiro’s Sun Breathing would have resulted in an exhilarating showdown, offering viewers a deeply thematic battle intertwined with character arcs.
Another compelling aspect of this hypothetical battle is the philosophical contrast between Tanjiro and Kokushibo. Tanjiro’s perspective is rooted in humanity and compassion, advocating for interconnectedness and mutual support among people. Contrarily, Kokushibo’s ambition for immortality drives him to embrace his ghastly nature as a demon, which starkly opposes Tanjiro’s values.
Tanjiro’s confrontation with Akaza offered closure for fans craving revenge, yet his lack of personal ties to Rengoku made the strongest sentiments feel somewhat forced. A clash with Kokushibo would have authentically represented a culmination of Tanjiro’s journey, resonating on a deeper emotional level.
Conclusion and Implications for the Story
Kokushibo’s battle with Muichiro stood out due to its historical significance, allowing an exploration of the lineage and the painful cycle experienced by the Tsugikuni family. However, a fight between Tanjiro and Kokushibo within the Infinity Castle arc would have woven in profound narrative threads, enhancing character development and plot resolution. Additionally, this encounter might have inadvertently left Tanjiro weakened for the ultimate showdown against Muzan, thereby elevating the stakes further.
Ultimately, the possibility of Tanjiro and Kokushibo clashing remains an intriguing thought experiment for fans, highlighting the depth and intricacies of character dynamics within Demon Slayer.