Sanemi Shinazugawa and his younger brother Genya have a complex relationship in the anime and manga series “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.” Sanemi’s seemingly mean demeanor towards Genya stems from a combination of personal trauma, protective instincts, and a desire to toughen his brother up in a harsh world filled with demons.
Trauma and Grief: Sanemi has experienced significant loss and trauma in his life, particularly with the death of their family at the hands of demons. This trauma has shaped his personality, making him harsh and emotionally guarded. He often expresses his pain through aggression and tough love, which can come off as mean-spirited.
Protectiveness: Despite his rough exterior, Sanemi is deeply protective of Genya. He believes that showing weakness or vulnerability could put his brother in danger. By being hard on Genya, Sanemi thinks he is preparing him for the brutal realities of their world, where they must face powerful demons.
Different Paths: Sanemi and Genya have chosen different paths in their fight against demons. Sanemi becomes a Hashira (a high-ranking demon slayer), while Genya takes a different approach by using demon blood techniques. Sanemi’s attitude may also stem from a sense of disapproval or misunderstanding of Genya’s choices, leading to tension between them.
Brotherly Rivalry: There is an underlying dynamic of rivalry between the brothers, as with many siblings. Sanemi’s harshness could be seen as a way to challenge Genya to become stronger, pushing him to reach his potential.
Character Development: As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Sanemi’s harsh treatment of Genya is rooted in love, even if it doesn’t always manifest in a healthy way. Their relationship evolves, revealing deeper layers of care and understanding as they confront their shared past and the dangers they face together.
Overall, Sanemi’s behavior towards Genya is influenced by a mix of protective instincts, personal trauma, and the complexities of sibling relationships, making their dynamic one of the more poignant elements in “Demon Slayer.”