AmongDemon Slayer’scast of characters,Zenitsu Agatsumahas always been one of the most overhated. Whether because of his frenzied outbursts of fear, his infatuation with Tanjiro’s sister, Nezuko, or his tendency to complain incessantly,Zenitsu is often described as annoying, especially compared to other, more calm and collected characters in the series.
Looking deeper,the level of vitriol hurled at Zenitsu is unjustified, because he has many positive traitsthat are too often ignored. He is one ofDemon Slayer’sstrongest characters, with aone-of-a-kind Breathing Style. His fear does not negate his power, and as the series progresses, he becomes one of the most determined heroes.
Zenitsu’s Powerful Thunder Breathing is Unparalleled
Even While Asleep, His Breathing Style Surpasses The Powers of Many Other Characters
Zenitsu may often be afraid of demons, but he channels that fright in a positive way through his Breathing Style. When his terror knocks him unconscious, such as in the Tsuzumi Mansion, his Thunder Breathing takes over, and he is able to destroy his enemies while fast asleep. He fought the Spider Demon and Tongue Demon alone, while passed out.
His ability to emerge victorious from fights while not awake is a testament to Zenitsu’s skill, even though he may seem like a weak link among the demon slayers due to his demeanor. Through fight after fight, he has proven that even though he may enter these situations frazzled and scared, when push comes to shove, he’s a phenomenal warrior.
Another admirable aspect of Zenitsu’s character arc is the fact that he does not stay complacent.His arc is one ofDemon Slayer’sbest,because he arguably changes for the better more than any other character. When his master, Jigoro Kuwajima, committed seppuku because of his shame at Kaigaku’s actions, Zenitsu became resolved to seek justice.
Zenitsu’s Character Arc Reveals Maturity, Growth, and Selflessness
When Jigoro Died, Zenitsu Transformed Into Someone Much More Determined and Levelheaded
Jigoro taught Zenitsu how to be strong, and more importantly, was someone he loved, so his tragic death forced Zenitsu to act. In the Infinity Castle, Zenitsu is at his best, risking everything to avenge Jigoro and make Kaigaku pay. Their fight is not only proof of Zenitsu’s advancement as a demon slayer, but his growth as a person too.
Zenitsu’s fight with Kaigaku is not only proof of his advancement as a demon slayer, but his growth as a person too.
His behaviorduring the Infinity Castle arcdefinitively shows that Zenitsu deserves more credit, but hints of his maturity even appeared inDemon Slayerbefore that defining moment. Zenitsu risked his safety to protect Nezuko, Tanjiro, Inosuke, and even strangers on multiple occasions, showing selfless love for both his friends and innocent people.
Worry is not an unnatural response, especially in a dangerous world plagued by demons, but Zenitsu does not allow these feelings to hold him back from his potential. When lives are at risk,Zenitsu consistently fights to save others. Even while afraid, he takes action. It is inspiring that, although he is terrified, he does not back down.
Zenitsu also brings excellent comic relieftoDemon Slayer,which can be rare since the underlying plot is so dark. He is more than just a humorous side character;Zenitsu’s character arc makes him realistic. He has a tendency to be dramatic, but he does not deserve the hate, because he also embodies what it means to be a true hero.
