Understanding Obanai's Complicated Jealousy towards Tanjiro in Demon Slayer
Obanai Iguro, a key character in Demon Slayer, harbors a complex and often misunderstood jealousy towards Tanjiro Kamado. This feeling is multifaceted and rooted in a blend of personal backgrounds, past experiences, and emotional complexities. Understanding this dynamic gives readers a deeper insight into both characters and can enhance one's appreciation of the story's intricate plot.
The Root of Obanai's Jealousy
The Demon Stigma
Obanai, a Serpent Hashira, was raised with a strict code of demon eradication. The concept of a human and a demon living as siblings is fundamentally at odds with his upbringing. The notion that Tanjiro, despite being a demon-slayer himself, could accept and uphold a relationship with a demon like Nezuko, challenges his deepest beliefs. This conflict manifests as jealousy and distrust, driven by his desire to adhere to his duty and past traumas.
Internal Conflict and Uncontrollable Emotions
While Obanai acknowledges Tanjiro’s skills and undeniably strong personality, his internal conflict is palpable. The unwavering love that Tanjiro has for his sister, Nezuko, creates a dilemma for him. His sense of duty and his past experiences make it difficult for him to fully trust or accept Tanjiro's actions. This internal struggle often leads to outward hostility, which is a reflection of his own insecurities and complex emotions.
A Touch of Romance or Possessiveness
Hidden Affection
Obanai’s feelings for Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, play a significant role in his jealousy. His feelings for Mitsuri may be complex, ranging from a sense of protectiveness to an unspoken crush. When Tanjiro befriends Mitsuri, Obanai often interprets this as a romantic connection, leading to heightened feelings of jealousy. This stems from his inability to express his feelings openly, making his possessiveness towards Mitsuri a proxy for his feelings of admiration and affection.
Social Awkwardness
Obanai's blunt and stoic demeanor can be both a strength and a weakness. His awkwardness in expressing emotions makes it difficult for him to openly communicate his feelings about Mitsuri. As a result, his jealousy towards Tanjiro can be viewed as a misguided form of possessiveness, further complicating the dynamic between the two characters.
Recognizing Tanjiro's Worth: A Grudging Acceptance
Gradual Acceptance
As time progresses, Obanai begins to see Tanjiro's unwavering determination and exceptional skills. This recognition, coupled with a growing understanding of Tanjiro's unique relationship with Nezuko, leads to a grudging acceptance. Obanai's initial antagonism towards Tanjiro is slowly transformed into a respectful rivalry. This change is evident in the way Tanjiro and Obanai interact, especially during critical moments in the story.
Hashira Camaraderie
As the Demon Slayer Corps continues its missions, the Hashira, including Obanai, form a camaraderie. This sense of brotherhood or sisterhood, in the spirit of the group, helps to mitigate some of the tension between Obanai and Tanjiro. Though Obanai may never fully warm up to Tanjiro, he acknowledges the younger man's contributions to the cause and the importance of their alliance in fighting demons.
Conclusion
Obanai's jealousy towards Tanjiro is a multifaceted emotion rooted in personal and professional complexions. His initial hostility stems from a mix of duty, past experiences, and emotional insecurities. While he may never fully embrace Tanjiro, his character arc demonstrates a begrudging and increasingly respectful acceptance of Tanjiro's role in the Demon Slayer Corps. Understanding this dynamic enriches one's appreciation of the intricacies of the Demon Slayer story and provides insight into the complexities of even the most seemingly straightforward characters.