How Demon Slayer’s Obanai Illustrates Poor Character Development

The world of Demon Slayer features an extensive array of characters, many of whom possess intricate backstories that have earned them a special place in the hearts of anime fans. From the esteemed Pillars of the Demon Slayer Corps such as Sanemi Shinazugawa, Giyu Tomioka, and Gyomei Himejima, to notorious villains like Akaza, Kokushibo, and Gyutaro, the series is rich with harrowing character narratives that evoke deep sympathy, even for its antagonists.

Among these characters, Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Pillar, stands out as one who many fans argue has been given the most unjust treatment in the storyline. Though his role is significant to the overall plot, Obanai often remains in the shadows, overlooked by the majority of the fanbase. This makes him a prime example of how a compelling character can still be deprived of the spotlight, not given the opportunity to showcase his true potential by the series’ creator.

An Examination of Obanai Iguro’s Overshadowed Narrative in Demon Slayer

In the Demon Slayer manga, virtually every character is granted a poignant and well-crafted backstory that resonates with readers, generating empathy even for the most malevolent foes. Whether it’s the upper-tier demons like Akaza, Kokushibo, Gyutaro, and Daki, or their lower-rank counterparts like Rui, each has their moment of glory paired with a tragic past.

Recently, discussions among fans on Reddit have surfaced regarding their dissatisfaction with the portrayal of Obanai Iguro and his unfortunate treatment in the manga relative to other characters. While this assertion might initially sound exaggerated, a closer look at Obanai’s role throughout the series reveals that these claims hold considerable weight.

A crucial factor supporting this viewpoint is that Obanai’s backstory unfolds during the climactic moments of the fight against Muzan Kibutsuji. This timing is hardly conducive to delving into a character’s history and motivations. Furthermore, his narrative is largely eclipsed by those of other pivotal characters during the Infinity Castle arc.

Obanai as depicted in Demon Slayer (image via Ufotable)

Moreover, Obanai’s character development is primarily confined to his last moments, lacking the depth found in the stories of Kyojuro Rengoku, Tengen Uzui, or Mitsuri Kanroji. His motivations, unlike those of Giyu Tomioka, Muichiro Tokito, and Gyomei Himejima, are not thoroughly explored or compelling.

Character arcs for figures like Shinobu, Gyomei, Giyu, Sanemi, Muichiro, and Rengoku play significant roles in the overall narrative, intertwining their pasts with each other. Unfortunately, the narratives of Tengen, Mitsuri, and Obanai appear detached from this web of connections.

Interestingly, among these three characters, only Tengen and Mitsuri have received adequate developmental arcs, with the latter showcasing precisely how Obanai’s character deserves more attention. While Tengen’s arc unfolds into an engaging narrative, Obanai’s significance feels truncated and insufficient in comparison.

The concluding battle of a series represents one of its critical moments, serving as both narrative and emotional peaks. It is where long-term conflicts reach resolution and central themes of good versus evil come to a head, showcasing the characters’ growth throughout the story. Consequently, revealing a character’s backstory amidst this pivotal climax is viewed as a significant oversight by many fans.

Some speculate that the creator of Demon Slayer, Koyoharu Gotouge, had intentions for Obanai’s character that were regrettably set aside when the manga’s conclusion was hastened due to personal circumstances.

In Conclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW5bjUOoNec

Muichiro vs Sanemi & Obanai | Demon Slayer: Hashira Traning arc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW5bjUOoNec)

While Obanai Iguro may not receive the narrative development his character deserves in Demon Slayer, there remains optimism that the anime adaptation might enhance his depth and significance.

Ufotable is notable for its creative approach and for introducing new scenes that enrich the storyline. This provides a potential avenue for elevating Obanai’s character in the adaptation of Demon Slayer.

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