Demon Slayer: Understanding the significance of Keizo in the manga

Demon Slayer is a show that places a great deal of emphasis on the characters. The plot is quite simple, and therefore, the characters take control of the narrative. Koyoharu Gotouge, the author of the manga, has done a stellar job of writing layered characters.

They are not unidimensional, and viewers unanimously believe that there is considerable depth to them. The series features several well-written characters. However, some of them have flown under the radar. Such characters might not have received as much screen time, but they have significantly influenced other characters and the plot.

One such character in Demon Slayer is Keizo. He impacted Hakuji (Akaza’s human name) considerably and laid the foundations of his martial art techniques. However, the extent of said impact goes far beyond the confines of combat techniques. Hakuji’s backstory is quite sad, as he was a victim of circumstances. He stole medicines for his ailing father, who was too poor to afford them. His father, unable to bear the shame of having a son who steals, took his own life.

Akaza descended further into the lawlessness, and that’s when he met Keizo. Hakuji was obsessed with fighting, and Keizo was the owner of a martial arts Dojo. The latter defeated Akaza with relative ease and even accepted him into his Dojo. He was willing to feed him and put a roof over his head if he was willing to take care of his sick daughter. Hakuji agreed, and he joined the Dojo.

That’s where he trained and became an exceptionally powerful fighter. Keizo not only trained Hakuji, but also instilled good values in him. The latter turned over a new leaf, led an honest life, and helped out Keizo’s daughter. Keizo gave Hakuji another shot at life. This was one of the most important moments in Hakuji’s life as seen in the Demon Slayer series.

Keizo’s significance in Demon Slayer: The tipping point

Hakuji married Keizo’s daughter in the Demon Slayer series. However, the rival dojo not only killed his wife, but also killed Keizo. Suffering the loss of his loved ones impacted Hakuji a lot. He lost his wife as well as the only person who was a father figure in his life. Keizo was the only one who believed in him. The rest of the world looked at him as a thief whose life didn’t really amount to much.

Keizo’s absence was quite evident, and having to endure such a loss made Hakuji snap. He killed dozens of people from the rival Dojo. When Muzan caught wind of this news, he turned Hakuji into a demon, and thus began Akaza’s journey. The Upper Moon 3 demon developed a degree of bloodlust that could not be quenched. Therefore, one can clearly witness the impact Keizo had on Akaza. The Upper Moon 3 demon’s fate would have been drastically different if he hadn’t lost his wife and his mentor.

Trending

Keizo was a mentor to Akaza before he became a demon. The extent of his impact cannot be overstated. There wasn’t a single person who believed in Hakuji. Keizo was the only person willing to give this kid a shot at life once again. Not only did he train him in martial arts, but he also raised Hakuji as his own son. Akaza, as a character, exists because of the groundwork laid by Keizo. Therefore, he is one of the most important characters in Demon Slayer.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback