Is Demon Slayer finished? Is Demon Slayer worth reading? These questions have been echoing throughout the manga community ever since the release of Koyoharu Gotouge’s spellbinding series. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba captivated readers worldwide with its gripping narrative, stunning artwork, and memorable characters.
And the moment the anime adaptation was released, its popularity catapulted to new heights, making it one of the most popular anime and manga series ever.
Demon Slayer is one of the few series whose anime adaptation is far better than its manga because, generally, the manga is always better than the anime adaptation. But with Demon Slayer anime’s stunning animation and story progression, it’s always a good idea to stick to the anime.
I am sure you are a fan of the anime series, but you might also be curious whether Demon Slayer manga is worth reading. And if it is worth reading, is the series finished?
Join us as we embark on a journey through the captivating world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. From breathtaking visuals to emotionally resonant storytelling, this manga has cemented its place as a must-read for manga enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
In this article, we’ll talk about the status of the manga series, whether it’s finished or ongoing, and also understand its allure and answer the lingering question of whether Demon Slayer really lives up to the hype.
Is Demon Slayer Manga Finished?
Yes, the Demon Slayer manga concluded on May 18, 2020. It doesn’t feel like it was that long ago, but we’re quickly approaching the 3rd anniversary of its conclusion. In case you’re somehow unfamiliar with the plot of Demon Slayer, here’s a summary.
The story starts with a heart-wrenching tragedy as Tanjiro’s family is brutally slaughtered by demons, leaving him as the sole survivor. Determined to find a cure for his sister Nezuko, who has been transformed into a demon herself, Tanjiro sets out on a path that intertwines with the Demon Slayer Corps, a group of warriors dedicated to eradicating demons from the world.
As Tanjiro trains and hones his skills, he encounters many allies and adversaries. Alongside his fellow Demon Slayers, including the cowardly Zenitsu and the boisterous Inosuke, Tanjiro faces off against powerful demons, each with their unique abilities and tragic backstories.
His ultimate goal is to track down the elusive and immensely powerful demon responsible for his family’s demise, Muzan Kibutsuji.
Throughout the series, Tanjiro’s unwavering determination and profound bond with his sister drive him forward. Along the way, he uncovers secrets about his family’s heritage, discovers ancient breathing techniques that enhance his combat abilities, and faces increasingly dangerous enemies.
The story culminates in a final climactic battle between Tanjiro, the Hashiras, and Muzan, testing his resolve and determination to protect those he cares about.
Demon Slayer encompasses several genres, blending them together to create a compelling narrative. Primarily, it falls under the genres of action and fantasy, with a strong emphasis on supernatural elements and intense combat sequences. The story revolves around battles against demons and the exploration of a dark and dangerous world.
In addition to action and fantasy, Demon Slayer also incorporates elements of adventure, as the protagonist, Tanjiro, embarks on a dangerous journey filled with trials and discoveries. The series explores themes of determination, resilience, and the power of human bonds, adding elements of drama and emotional depth.
While Demon Slayer manga appeals to a wide range of readers, it’s technically a shonen manga series whose target audience is primarily young adults and older teenagers.
It’s an excellent read for those who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds, intense battles, and a touch of supernatural intrigue. However, due to its dark themes and occasional graphic violence, it is important to note that the series may not be suitable for children or those who are squeamish.
How Many Demon Slayer Volumes Are There?
The Demon Slayer manga consists of 23 volumes, all written and illustrated by the talented Koyoharu Gotouge. The first chapter of the manga was released in Weekly Shonen Jump on February 15, 2016, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey.
From the very beginning, Gotouge’s distinctive art style and compelling storytelling drew attention. The manga quickly gained momentum, building a dedicated fan base eager to unravel the mysteries and immerse themselves in the world of demons and Demon Slayers.
Gotouge’s vision for Demon Slayer was brought to life through careful planning and research. The manga seamlessly weaves together elements of traditional Japanese folklore and history, creating a rich and immersive world for readers to explore.
From the Taisho era setting to the intricacies of the Demon Slayer Corps, every aspect of the story is thoughtfully crafted to immerse readers in a unique and fantastical realm.
The success of Demon Slayer extended beyond the manga itself. The series garnered immense popularity, leading to the creation of an anime adaptation that further amplified its reach. The collaboration between the manga and anime teams brought the world of Demon Slayer to life with stunning animation, captivating voice acting, and faithful storytelling.
Is Demon Slayer Manga Worth Reading?
In my opinion, Demon Slayer manga is definitely worth the time it’ll take you to read it. It might not be as good as the anime adaptation, but it still is an excellent read if you are a manga connoisseur.
First and foremost, the story of Demon Slayer is incredibly engaging. Tanjiro’s quest to find a cure for Nezuko and avenge his family’s death takes us through a world filled with demons, demon slayers, and intricate swordsmanship techniques.
The plot is masterfully crafted, constantly keeping you on the edge of your seat with intense battles, unexpected twists, and emotionally charged moments. You’ll find yourself deeply invested in Tanjiro’s mission, rooting for his success and experiencing the roller coaster of emotions alongside him.
One of the central themes in Demon Slayer manga is the exploration of goodness and empathy in a world filled with darkness. Tanjiro embodies this theme as he strives to protect others and bring out humanity in even the most malevolent beings. The series poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of good and evil and how compassion and understanding can triumph over hatred and violence.
This is exemplified best in Tanjiro, as one of his most prominent traits is his empathy. Tanjiro’s unwavering determination to protect others, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
He has an innate ability to understand the pain and suffering of others, be it humans or demons. He never jumps to conclusions or judges based on appearances alone, instead taking the time to listen and understand before making a judgment.
This empathy allows him to see the humanity in even the most monstrous beings and sets him apart from other typical shonen protagonists. Tanjiro’s ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level resonates with us, reminding us of the power of kindness and understanding in a world often plagued by division and judgment.
Demon Slayer beautifully illustrates the journey of personal growth and redemption. Characters like Zenitsu and Inosuke undergo significant transformations as they confront their fears, overcome their flaws, and strive to become stronger demon slayers.
But villains also experience their own personal growth. Most of the villains shown in the story had a tragic life as humans, which makes it hard for the fans to hate them.
Throughout the series, Tanjiro’s journey of personal growth and redemption is powerfully depicted. Rather than succumbing to hatred and vengeance, he chooses to approach his enemies with empathy and understanding. This is just one example, but the series overall emphasizes that growth is a continuous process, and one’s past does not define their future.
Demon Slayer series presents a critical examination of the cyclical nature of hatred and vengeance. It portrays the devastating consequences of allowing oneself to be consumed by revenge and the perpetual cycle of violence it perpetuates. The series emphasizes the importance of breaking free from this cycle and finding alternative paths to justice and resolution.
One of the most prominent examples of this examination can be seen in the dynamic between the demon slayers and the demons themselves. The demons, formerly humans who were consumed by hatred and turned into monstrous beings, are driven by their desire for revenge and the perpetuation of their own pain. They inflict suffering upon others, seeking to create more demons and continue the cycle of hatred.
On the other hand, the demon slayers, particularly Tanjiro and his friends, understand the weight and consequences of revenge-driven actions. Tanjiro, who initially seeks revenge for the murder of his family, gradually learns that perpetuating hatred and vengeance only leads to more tragedy and despair.
Tanjiro, along with his sister Nezuko and their allies, consistently choose a path of empathy and forgiveness, even towards their enemies. They strive to understand the pain and motivations of the demons they encounter, and rather than perpetuating the cycle, they seek to break it by offering compassion and redemption.
Now, let’s talk about the artwork. The illustrations in Demon Slayer are simply breathtaking. Koyoharu Gotouge’s attention to detail is astounding, and the fight scenes are dynamic and visually stunning. Each demon is uniquely designed, with intricate features that make them both terrifying and fascinating. But the art direction itself is fascinating, as the story takes place in the Taisho era of Japan.
The Taisho period was characterized by juxtaposing traditional Japanese culture and Western influences. This duality is reflected in the art direction, creating a unique atmosphere. You can see people wearing traditional Japanese clothes and Western dresses and suits walking down the same street. Electrical and wood-fueled lighting, characters traveling by foot and by train, all in the same time period. It makes for a visually captivating backdrop!
Conclusion
As we reflect on Demon Slayer’s conclusion, now is the perfect time to experience the manga in its entirety. The story’s completion allows readers to appreciate the carefully crafted narrative arcs fully, witness the character transformations, and explore the profound messages it delivers.
Demon Slayer series offers a poignant and emotionally resonant tale that transcends the boundaries of the genre. Its themes of resilience, redemption, and the power of empathy continue to resonate with readers, making it a compelling read for fans of action, drama, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a story that you owe it to yourself to experience.
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