Demon Slayer’spopularity is due in big part to thelikability of its two leads. While the bulk of the series focuses on Tanjiro’s trials and adventures, Nezuko is there every step of the way. The younger Kamado sibling doesn’t say much thanks to her bamboo muzzle, but her presence is felt in every scene she’s in.
Nezuko’s transformation into a demon serves as thecatalyst for the series’ narrative, as it’s Tanjiro’s desire to save her that sets him on his path to become aDemon Slayer. Nezuko isn’t regulated to the role of spectator and makes herself known when she’s needed. Though she’s sometimesleft to hide in Tanjiro’s carrying case, Nezuko stands out thanks to her monstrous strength and unique appearance.
Nezuko’s most distinguishable physical trait by far is her bamboo muzzle.Given to her by Giyufollowing their first, nearly fatal, encounter, Nezuko is rarely seen without it. This isn’t for aesthetic reasons, at least not within the context of the narrative.
RELATED:Did The Demon Slayer Manga End Too Soon?
Like many demons, Nezuko can be vicious and pose a threat to those around her. Though, unlike most others, Nezuko is shown to have a level of restraint and affection for humanity that separates her from the myriad of coldhearted demons seen throughout the series.
Nezuko wears her bamboo muzzle as a precautionary measure. Despite Tanjiro’sbelief in his sister’s inner humanity, letting Nezuko interact with humans without a failsafe would be a danger to all involved. The now-iconic bamboo muzzle serves as a way of stopping Nezuko from using her teeth, and also keeps her from tasting human blood, which would cause her to lose control of herself.
RELATED:Demon Slayer Studio Founder Faces 20-Months in Prison Over Tax Evasion Charges
When Nezuko faces off againstDaki in the Entertainment District Arc, she loses her muzzle, giving fans their first look at Demon Nezuko in full swing. As expected, Nezuko eventually loses control and has to be subdued to prevent any unnecessary collateral damage.
As far as demons go, Nezuko can hold her own against some of the best. She has a knack for combat and always seems to adjust to her opponents, even when she’s being overwhelmed. She canmatch members of the Twelve Kizukiin terms of strength which given her brief time as a demon, is nothing short of amazing. Her powerful Blood Demon Art and various abnormal abilities suggest something extraordinary about her compared to the other demons in the series. While she hasn’t been used as frequently as one would expect, Nezuko has shown enough throughout the series to prove she’s in a class of her own.
But still, all this immense strength is kept in check thanks to Nezuko’s relationship with those closest to her, and the surprisingly effective muzzle that has become synonymous with her character. The muzzle is an indication of Nezuko’s restraint and inner humanity that so much of the series is spent trying to reclaim. It might seem simplistic at first but ultimately serves as a reminder of both she and Tanjiro’s resolve throughout theDemon Slayernarrative.
