Does anyone hate Tanjiro?

Tanjiro Kamado, the beloved protagonist of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba), is largely admired by fans for his kind heart, relentless determination, and unwavering sense of justice. However, like many characters in popular media, he does have a few detractors. While there aren't any major characters in Demon Slayer who outright hate Tanjiro, there are a few reasons why some people might dislike or be critical of him.

Reasons Why Some Might Dislike Tanjiro

1. Overly Idealistic: Tanjiro's unwavering kindness and optimism can be seen as unrealistic by some. His desire to save demons and empathize with their suffering—even those who have committed horrific acts—can be frustrating to others. For instance, his goal to "save" Nezuko, his sister, from becoming a demon sometimes creates tension with other characters, like Zenitsu and Inosuke, who are more focused on the practicalities of fighting demons. Some viewers or readers might feel that Tanjiro's idealism slows down the story or makes him appear naive.

2. Perceived "Perfect" Personality: Tanjiro is often portrayed as a "perfect" hero with very few flaws. He is kind, selfless, and empathetic, which can sometimes come across as too idealized for certain audiences who prefer more complex or morally gray characters. Some fans of darker or more flawed protagonists may find Tanjiro's personality a little too wholesome or "too good to be true."

3. Sacrificial Nature: Tanjiro frequently puts himself in harm’s way to protect others, often sacrificing his own well-being for the sake of his friends or family. While this selflessness is admirable, it can also be seen as a bit repetitive. Some viewers may feel that his willingness to sacrifice himself for others makes him a bit predictable or one-dimensional.

4. Conflict with Other Demon Slayers: Though Tanjiro’s relationships with his peers like Zenitsu and Inosuke are generally positive, there are moments in the series where his empathetic nature clashes with others. For example, his compassion for demons is sometimes met with skepticism or even hostility from fellow Demon Slayers who view demons strictly as enemies that must be eradicated. Tanjiro’s insistence on seeing the humanity in demons, like Rui or Akaza, occasionally leads to friction with his allies.

How Tanjiro's Journey Ends (Spoilers Ahead)

As for how the story ends, it’s important to note that the Demon Slayer manga (and its anime adaptation) has concluded, and Tanjiro's journey reaches a bittersweet end.

The Final Battle:

In the Demon Slayer manga's final arc, Tanjiro faces the ultimate challenge against Muzan Kibutsuji, the demon king, in a desperate battle to protect humanity and his loved ones. During this climactic moment, Tanjiro is gravely injured and nearly loses his life, as Muzan's demonic power overwhelms him.

Tanjiro's Transformation:

In the final moments, Tanjiro does something drastic. He nearly becomes a demon himself due to the curse placed on him by Muzan, but thanks to the intervention of his friends and the will of his sister Nezuko (who also resists becoming a demon), Tanjiro is able to fight back. This moment is one of the most emotionally intense parts of the series, showcasing how much Tanjiro values human life and the bonds he shares with others.

The Outcome:

In the end, Tanjiro does not die but instead manages to overcome the curse of Muzan with the help of his comrades. After the final battle, he and his friends go through significant healing, both physically and mentally. Tanjiro’s journey concludes with a sense of peace, as he has not only saved his sister but also helped rid the world of Muzan and the demons.

The series ends with a flash-forward to a peaceful future where Tanjiro’s descendants live in a world free from demons. This provides closure for his character, showing that his efforts were not in vain and that his legacy lives on.

Tanjiro’s Last Impact:

In the end, Tanjiro’s idealism and compassion were not weaknesses but strengths that led to significant victories for both the Demon Slayer Corps and the people he cared about. He changes the hearts of others, not only through his swordsmanship but also through his ability to inspire those around him. His enduring hope and kindness are what ultimately make him a hero in the truest sense.

Conclusion:

While some characters and a small portion of the audience might find Tanjiro’s idealism a bit too much, the overwhelming sentiment towards him is one of admiration. His journey is filled with personal sacrifices, but his compassion and determination are what make him one of the most beloved protagonists in anime history. Demon Slayer ends on a note of hope, with Tanjiro leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and perseverance.