Sanemi and Genya’s Tragic Interaction in the Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arc Causes Chaos in Fandom

The highly anticipated fifth episode of Demon Slayer, “I Even Ate Demons…”, was broadcasted on June 9, 2024, providing a poignant portrayal of the intricate and sorrowful bond between Sanemi and Genya. Despite their initial negative reception in the fandom, the brothers have now garnered a significant following.

Episode 5 depicted Sanemi’s attempt to inflict permanent injury on Genya in hopes of making him leave the Corps. While the fandom is aware of the true motive behind this act, it has sparked a discussion about the morality of Sanemi’s actions. Despite their turbulent relationship, the two do not harbor genuine hatred towards each other.

This article includes spoilers for the Demon Slayer series.

Demon Slayer: Sanemi and Genya’s Tragic Interaction Adapted in Hashira Training Arc

The fifth episode featured the initial on-screen encounter between the Shinazugawa siblings. While the true motives for Sanemi’s assault on Genya were left undisclosed, a considerable portion of the fanbase has come to a consensus that his actions were ultimately for the good of Genya.

Despite the deep scars left by their early encounter with demons, Sanemi and Genya have taken different paths – Sanemi has joined the Corps and relentlessly hunts demons, while Genya has chosen a different path. Despite often displaying hostility and aggression toward Genya, Sanemi’s actions are rooted in a profound care for his younger brother.

Fan reaction to Sanemi and Genya’s interaction

Despite causing division among a significant portion of the fandom, many fans who have caught up with the manga have gained a deeper understanding of Sanemi’s actions and the motives behind them. It is clear that his actions were driven by his concern for Genya’s welfare.

Both factions of the fandom are aware of Sanemi’s motivations and hold varying perspectives and opinions regarding them. Additionally, one fan noted that while Sanemi’s motivations and rationale were entirely reasonable, his methods were excessive.

“I know he loves genya but blinding your brother… It’s not the right decision,”one fan said.

Genya as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)
Genya as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

One other fan pointed out the importance of taking into account Sanemi’s entire character, acknowledging that although his actions stem from good intentions, they are still condemnable.

“I think to understand sanemis character we need to both understand what motivates him and why his actions are still deplorable no matter his good intentions,”one fan wrote.

“Maturing is realizing that, even if sanemi treated genya like this to push him away, genya still deserved better and sanemi’s actions are cruel and unforgivable,”another fan wrote.

One fan also used the chance to voice their opinion on how episode 5 will ultimately divide the fandom in their support for Sanemi. The full understanding of Sanemi’s character will only be revealed at the conclusion of the series.

“Episode 5 will singlehandedly increase the number of Sanemi haters, the only hope left for us is Kokushibo vs the hashiras. What Sanemi fears will come true anyway,”a fan wrote.

A young Sanemi as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)
A young Sanemi as shown in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

The fifth episode of Demon Slayer was the first time that Genya and Sanemi had an on-screen interaction. While this particular episode may have caused some division among the Demon Slayer fanbase, upcoming episodes may shed more light on the character of Sanemi and his motivations.

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