The recent episode added to the Demon Slayer franchise adds more to the already existing mystery behind Tanjiro’s memory and the history of the legendary Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the first user of the fire-breathing technique. The added confusion in the recent episode is an extension of the several cliffhangers that the show employed to retain its desirability. The questions arise one after another, one of them that has frequently been asked, ‘Is Yoriichi related to Tanjiro?’
Also, Tanjiro at the beginning of the episode explores his quest for reinventing his memory. He tries to deconstruct his dreams with their projections in the reality.
Who is Yoriichi Tsugikuni in Demon Slayer and what is the Fire-Breathing?
One of the most legendary Demon Slayers and probably the best, Yoriichi Tsugukuni is as much of a mystery as he is a sensation. He is said to be from the Sengoku era, and was supposedly alive 500 years ago. This brings us to the question as to what might be his possible relation to the Kamado family and Tanjiro’s memory.
- What we can deduce from the recent developments is that Yoriichi might be the one who invented the Fire-breathing style. The immediate argument would definitely follow the trajectory that leads to the discovery of his possible relationship with Tanjiro and the Kamado family based on the fire-breathing technique.
- But this argument remains ambiguous as very little is known of this theory. Therefore, I will instead focus on Tanjiro’s memory play.
Tanjiro and a fleeting Memory: are his thoughts inherent?
The recent episode examines the element of Tanjiro’s memory and the question: ‘Is Yoriichi related to Tanjiro?’. Upon having a vision of a dream, he quickly tries to recall the episode of his encounter with the same.
The whole scene was initiated when he caught a glimpse of Yoriichi Type Zero’s hair. This led to a whole dialogue on the idea of inherent memory and the concept of shifting thoughts.
The question as to whether thoughts are a part of the ancestral being and if they actually get passed on to the successors of a generation is a central idea that revolves around the recent episode. The idea of a familial bond forged upon memory sends a strong message.
This might signify the element of ‘human’ that differentiates the Demon Slayers from the Demons. But, it is not true that the demons are devoid of the love within a family. We have observed in the earlier seasons as well. But the fact that these memories exist as a part of the basic human character is what differentiates the two.
What can we say about Demon Slayer’s psychological redefinition?
The show constantly provokes the emotional spectrum of the viewer and that makes it a melodramatic show to watch. But the action, adventure, and comedy almost negate this effect. Therefore, it is important to understand how the show reaches out to the human psyche and manipulates human emotions, through means of appealing to the humanness of even the demons and other demonic entities.
The constant experimentation with Tanjiro and his quest sends the viewer into a state similar to his mind. It is a space that is defined by an acute sense of righteousness and peace. This becomes a longing for closure amidst the chaos. The psychological redefinition of the show is therefore in the discovery of the truth that Tanjiro seeks. This extends to a collective chase for the protagonist and the viewer.
Conclusion
The show is a constant tug-of-war between traditionality and modernity, where the traditional war converges with modern theories and concepts. While we await the further release of the series, it is important that we remember that this show is much more than its captivating action and noisy comedy.
The added mystery of ‘What is the fire-breathing technique’, ‘is Yoriichi related to Tanjiro’, and ‘Who is Yoriichi Tsugikuni’ further add to the gravity of the show.
Also Read: Demon Slayer Season 3 Episode 1 review: The Swordsmith Village arc opener does not disappoint
To know more about the opening of the Season 3, follow our updates on Spiel Time.
