The conclusion of the Demon Slayer manga has left fans grappling with the emotional aftermath of several shocking character deaths. The climactic battle against Muzan and his formidable Upper Moon demons resulted in the loss of beloved characters, shaking the foundation of the series. While these fatalities have been particularly heart-wrenching for viewers, hints of their inevitability may have been subtly woven into the narrative by creator Koyoharu Gotouge even before the events transpired.
In chapter 200, numerous Hashira and demon slayers managed to endure until dawn. However, it became evident that not all would emerge unscathed from this final confrontation. An astute observation reveals that Gotouge may have cleverly foreshadowed the impending deaths through the chapter’s cover art, which also serves as a significant spoiler for Tanjiro.
Disclaimer: The following analysis includes speculative theories and reflects the author’s perspective.
Foreshadowing of Major Deaths in Demon Slayer
Chapter 200, aptly named “The Price of Victory,”delves into the immediate consequences following the formidable clash with Muzan. Prior to the narrative kickoff, Gotouge potentially set the stage for major character deaths by positioning the slayers and their fates on the cover. Those fated to die are notably arranged on the right, while those who survive are illustrated on the left—a detail that can easily slip past unsuspecting readers. If this was indeed Gotouge’s intention, it points to a remarkable level of foresight and creativity in his storytelling.
The demise of key characters such as Obanai Iguro, Gyomei Himejima, and Mitsuri Kanroji is palpably felt throughout the chapter. While there may be debate surrounding Tanjiro’s fate—since he is ultimately depicted alive by the series’ conclusion—his inclusion among the casualties stems from a particular moment in this chapter when he is portrayed as dead after the fierce battle.
Gyomei’s decision to forgo medical assistance, asserting that it should be reserved for the younger slayers, marked a poignant acceptance of his fate—an early indication of the tragic losses to come. In his final moments, Gyomei reflects on past injustices as he forgives the children he had thought had betrayed him.
Similarly, the tragic closures of Iguro and Mitsuri unfold dramatically. In their final breaths, the couple admits their love for one another, with Mitsuri asking Obanai if he would marry her in another life. His heartfelt affirmation encapsulated their deep bond as they passed away together, a bittersweet conclusion to their love story.
Survivors of the intense battle include Giyu and Sanemi, both of whom faced near-death experiences themselves. Initial implications of Sanemi’s death were later dismissed, revealing that both he and fellow fighters Zenitsu and Inosuke escaped the fight despite enduring serious wounds.
Reflecting on the Emotional Impact
With chapter 200 serving as a harrowing chapter filled with critical Demon Slayer deaths, it stands out as one of the most emotionally riveting segments of the series. Although the conclusion of the battle with Muzan is a cause for celebration, the heavy toll it took on lives leaves fans in deep contemplation about the costs associated with this victory.
As the official anime adaptation moves forward, fans eagerly anticipate how these poignant deaths will be portrayed on screen, especially as the adaptation reaches its climax following the Infinity Castle arc.
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