The third season of Demon Slayer has captivated anime enthusiasts worldwide, with its intense battles and emotional story arcs. However, a recent fan theory has sparked debate, suggesting that Tanjiro Kamado, the series’ protagonist, almost followed in the tragic footsteps of Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the legendary swordsman.
A Close Call in Season 3’s Finale
Demon Slayer has set a new benchmark for anime, earning the title of ‘Anime of the Decade.’ The series, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, has resonated deeply with fans, largely due to its rich characters and compelling narrative. But according to a theory circulating online, Gotouge may have narrowly avoided making a monumental mistake by sparing Tanjiro from a fate similar to Yoriichi’s.
The theory, which has gained traction among fans, posits that Tanjiro was perilously close to diverging from his heroic path during the finale of Season 3. In the climactic Swordsmith Village Arc, Tanjiro’s sister, Nezuko, narrowly escapes death, leading to speculation about what might have happened had she not survived.
The Curse of the Demon Slayer Mark
In Demon Slayer, those who bear the Demon Slayer mark are cursed with a short life expectancy, often meeting their demise before the age of 25. Tanjiro, who unlocked this mark during the Entertainment Arc in Season 2, is burdened with this curse. The fan theory suggests that had Nezuko perished, Tanjiro’s grief could have driven him down a dark path, potentially aligning himself with the Demon King Muzan in a desperate bid to save his sister.
A fan account on Instagram, @hoshi_aqua, fueled this speculation by sharing a reel that stated, “If Nezuko hadn’t survived that day, Tanjiro would have become a second Yoriichi for Muzan.” This theory stems from the tense final moments of the battle against Hantengu, the Upper Moon Four, where Nezuko’s life hung in the balance as the sun began to rise.
The Weight of Nezuko’s Survival
Nezuko’s miraculous survival, despite her vulnerability to sunlight as a demon, was a turning point in the story. Had she died, the theory suggests, Tanjiro’s resolve might have crumbled, leading him to make choices that would have echoed Yoriichi’s tragic legacy.
Tanjiro’s journey has been marked by his unwavering determination to cure Nezuko and restore her humanity. The loss of his last remaining family member could have pushed him to the brink, altering the course of the series dramatically.
The Anticipation for the Infinity Castle Arc
As the series progresses, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter, with the upcoming Infinity Castle Arc promising to be a thrilling and emotionally charged ride. The Hashiras, Tanjiro, and his companions are set to face their greatest challenges yet, as they prepare to confront the Demon King Muzan and his Upper Moons.
Ufotable, the studio responsible for the stunning animation of Demon Slayer, continues to exceed expectations with each season. The upcoming fifth season is poised to break new ground, with plans to release it as a trilogy in theaters.
The final season promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, with the fate of the Demon Slayer Corps hanging in the balance. As they enter the Infinity Castle, the stakes have never been higher, and the possibility of history repeating itself looms large.
Conclusion
The fan theory that Tanjiro could have followed Yoriichi’s path serves as a reminder of the fine line between heroism and tragedy in Demon Slayer. As the series hurtles toward its conclusion, viewers are left to wonder how close Tanjiro came to a darker fate—and what challenges still lie ahead.
With the Infinity Castle Arc on the horizon, fans are bracing themselves for what promises to be a climactic and heart-wrenching conclusion to one of the most beloved anime series of all time.