Zenitsu Agatsuma, the blonde swordsman with a surprising secret, is a fan favorite in the world of Demon Slayer.
But what truly sets him apart from his fellow demon slayers? After the final two episodes of season 2, fans have been buzzing about the dramatic Zenitsu Agatsuma change.
From his surprising past to his unique personality, we’ll unpack everything about Zenitsu.
These elements, along with his background, explain why he has walked a different path than all other demon hunters.
Warning: Spoilers for those who haven’t read the Demon Slayer manga.
The Zenitsu Agatsuma change you didn’t see coming in Demon Slayer
Zenitsu Agatsuma, Demon Slayer’s fast and frantic swordsman, is far from your typical monster-slaying hero. Unlike Tanjiro, driven by the tragedy of losing his family, Zenitsu initially comes across as the series’ comic relief.
His constant crying, pleas to quit, and frequent fainting make him seem anything but heroic. This stark contrast is because of Zenitsu’s backstory.
Zenitsu’s journey wasn’t propelled by a burning desire to protect or avenge. In chapter 33 of the manga and season 1 episode 17 of the anime, we learn that a girl tricked Zenitsu and took all his money to run away with another man.
At that time, Zenitsu didn’t know Jigoro Kuwajima. However, Kuwajima paid off Zenitsu’s debt and, in return, asked him to train and become a demon hunter.
This forced path lacked the emotional drive found in most Demon Slayers. Zenitsu often expressed his desire to quit, even during the intense training. His only known goal was to get married someday.
In contrast, take Tanjiro, for example. A demon killed his family, and his sister was turned into one. This tragedy motivated him to pursue even the most powerful demon, Muzan Kibutsuji.
While not all Hashira have the same type of traumatic experience, most have endured significant trauma or extreme circumstances that shaped them into who they are.
Everything changes for Zenitsu when he receives the tragic news of Kuwajima’s passing in chapter 136 of the manga and season 4 episode 7. This drastic act stemmed from the shame caused by another student, Kaigaku, becoming a demon.
This unexpected loss ignites a previously unseen fire within Zenitsu. The fear and insecurity that defined him melt away, replaced by a singular focus: avenge his master and defeat Kaigaku.
Zenitsu’s journey emphasizes the importance of having a purpose within the Demon Slayer Corps.
While many are motivated by early tragedies, Zenitsu’s true purpose emerges later, sparked by a personal loss.
This newfound purpose is a powerful catalyst, transforming him from a comical coward into a surprisingly skilled and determined swordsman.
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