Demon Slayer: Character Breakdown and the Battle Against Demons

If there's one show that is making people talk at the moment, it's Demon Slayer. You might be wondering how this series, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, was able to capture manga fans' hearts. We at Cartoon Toi believe the casting has a lot to contribute to it!

From the duo of Tanjiro and Nezuko, the Demon Slayer heroes, to the frightful Demon Moons led by Muzan, we get to experience a wide range of emotions. Each character is distinct and adds their personal flavor to the tale. So, get your Nichirin Blade and discover the secrets of the Slayers from Demons!

Main Characters

Tanjiro Kamado: The Demon Slayer

Tanjiro Kamado is the principal protagonist of the manga. With rare bravery, this boy is determined to avenge the murder of his family by demons. Despite the horrible events he's endured, he maintains an uncommon kindness, even towards his enemies, the demons.

Tanjiro has one sibling, Nezuko, who turned into a demon in the attack. Willing to do anything for her protection, he becomes a Demon Slayer. His aim is to track down the demon responsible for killing his family and, most of all, to help Nezuko return to her human form.

He trains with Sakonji Urokodaki, an ex-member of the Demon Slayer Army, to master the "Breath of Water," a brutal sword style from the past. Tanjiro is an exceptional athlete and quickly develops formidable techniques, making him an effective opponent against demons.

Throughout his journey, Tanjiro meets Inosuke, the hunter in a boar mask, and Zenitsu, the brave swordsman. They become his cherished allies, and despite his youth, Tanjiro shows maturity, determination, and courage beyond his years.

Nezuko Kamado: The Human Demon

Despite being transformed into a demon, Tanjiro's younger sister Nezuko retains human characteristics, like her generosity and compassion. Although she has become mute since her transformation, Nezuko communicates through facial expressions and gestures.

She is fiercely protective of Tanjiro and assists him in combat. To curb her demon instincts, she wears a bamboo muzzle. Nezuko's journey with Tanjiro to recover their humanity and seek revenge on their family makes her a crucial part of the Demon Slayer story.

Zenitsu Agatsuma: The Young Boar

Zenitsu Agatsuma is a 16-year-old aspiring demon hunter who joins Tanjiro and Inosuke. However, Zenitsu doesn't appear strong at first; he's constantly crying and longing to escape dangerous situations. But Zenitsu has a hidden power: when he falls into a deep sleep, he becomes a highly skilled fighter, using the Breath of Lightning to perform lightning-fast attacks.

Zenitsu is also known for his infatuation with women, especially Nezuko. His character brings both comic relief and moments of courage to the group.

Inosuke Hashibira: The Cowardly Boar

Inosuke is not your average fighter. Raised by wild boars, he developed a unique fighting style called the Breath of the Beast. At 15 years old, he’s tough, fast, and has an unpredictable fighting style. He wears a boar mask and has a wild personality to match.

Inosuke initially comes across as a brash and self-centered individual, but as the series progresses, he forms strong bonds with Tanjiro and Zenitsu, creating some of the most memorable moments in the show.

Muzan Kibutsuji: The Demon King

Muzan Kibutsuji is the main antagonist of Demon Slayer and the first demon to ever exist. After ingesting a mysterious drug derived from the blue lily, Muzan transformed into a demon and set his plans to make all humans demons in his image.

Muzan is cruel, narcissistic, and believes he is the ultimate being. He controls the Twelve Demon Moons, the most powerful demons, and seeks to destroy the Demon Slayer Corps. Muzan is responsible for the murder of Tanjiro’s family and the transformation of Nezuko into a demon.


The Pillars

The Pillars are the nine most powerful members of the Demon Slayer Corps. Each Pillar has mastered a unique breathing style and is responsible for leading groups of Demon Slayers. Below are some of the prominent Pillars:

Kyojuro Rengoku: Pillar of Flame

Kyojuro Rengoku is a master of the Breath of Flame and one of the most courageous Pillars. He leads Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke in the Mugen Train arc, where he faces off against the demon Enmu. Rengoku is remembered for his fiery spirit and determination.

Giyu Tomioka: Pillar of Water

Giyu Tomioka is the master of the Breath of Water, a technique that Tanjiro learns. He is a stoic and cold individual but deeply cares for his comrades. Giyu’s water techniques are highly revered and allow him to defeat powerful demons with precision.

Shinobu Kocho: Insect Pillar

Shinobu Kocho, known for her speed and agility, uses the Breath of Insects to deal poisonous wounds to her enemies. Despite her cheery demeanor, Shinobu is a deeply compassionate person, especially towards her fellow Demon Slayers.

Tengen Uzui: Pillar of Sound

Tengen Uzui is a flashy and flamboyant character who fights using the Breath of Sound. He has a huge heart and is fiercely loyal to his friends and family. He plays a pivotal role in the Entertainment District arc.

Mitsuri Kanroji: Pillar of Love

Mitsuri Kanroji uses the Breath of Love in battle, combining grace and power. Despite her appearance as a delicate and fragile woman, Mitsuri is a fierce fighter, and her strength is one of the most underrated in the series.


The Demonic Moons

The Demon Moons are the twelve most powerful demons in the Demon Slayer universe, divided into two groups: the Six Upper Moons and the Six Lower Moons. These demons derive their power from Muzan Kibutsuji’s blood and are ranked from the Upper First Moon (most powerful) to the Lower Sixth Moon.

Kokushibo: Upper Moon 1

Kokushibo is the strongest of the Upper Moons and Muzan’s right-hand man. Before becoming a demon, Kokushibo was a powerful Demon Slayer and the twin brother of the legendary Yoriichi Tsugikuni. His strength and cruelty are unmatched.

Doma: Upper Moon 2

Doma is an ice-wielding demon with a charming appearance that hides his cruel, heartless personality. He’s known for his destructive power and his ruthless treatment of his followers.

Akaza: Upper Moon 3

Akaza was once human but lost his humanity after becoming a demon. He is highly skilled in martial arts and has fought some of the strongest Demon Slayers, including Kyojuro Rengoku.

Hantengu: Upper Moon 4

Hantengu has the ability to summon clones with different abilities, making him an unpredictable and dangerous enemy. He uses invisibility as one of his main strengths in combat.

Gyokko: Upper Moon 5

Gyokko is a strange demon with pottery patterns on his skin and multiple limbs. He creates horrific artwork using the bodies of his victims, and his narcissism makes him an especially dangerous foe.

Kaigaku: Upper Moon 6

Kaigaku was once a student under the same master as Zenitsu, but he betrayed his sensei to become a demon. He has the power to manipulate electricity, and his fight against Zenitsu in the Blacksmith Village arc is intense.


The Pillars and Demon Moons are the most powerful beings in the world of Demon Slayer. Their battles against each other and the Demon Slayers will determine the future of the world.