Sango's Character Development through Loss in Inuyasha
Sango's Character Development through Loss in Inuyasha
Inuyasha is a beloved anime series that follows the journey of a half-demon named Inuyasha and his gang of friends as they search for shards of the Shikon Jewel. Along the way, each character undergoes their own growth and development, and one of the most poignant examples of this is Sango’s evolution through the losses she experiences.
The Loss of her Family and Clan
Sango was a strong and fierce demon slayer from the Demon Slayer Village, where she lived with her younger brother, father, and fellow slayers. However, in a tragic turn of events, the village is attacked by the demon Naraku, leaving Sango as the only survivor.
This loss is not only physical but emotional, as Sango not only loses her entire family, but also her sense of purpose and identity as a demon slayer. This intense grief causes her to seek revenge against Naraku, but it also pushes her to join forces with Inuyasha and his gang.
The Loss of her Brother
As Sango travels with Inuyasha and the others, she comes face to face with her brother Kohaku, who is under Naraku’s control. Sango is torn between her love for her brother and her need for revenge, and ultimately, she is forced to kill Kohaku to save her friends.
This loss is a turning point for Sango’s character development, as she is faced with the harsh reality of her actions. She begins to question her desire for revenge and struggles to come to terms with the guilt of killing her brother.
The Loss of her Love Interest
Sango’s relationship with the perverted monk Miroku is one of the most memorable and endearing aspects of Inuyasha. However, their budding romance is put to the test when Miroku is gravely injured and on the brink of death.
In a moment of desperation, Sango confesses her feelings for Miroku, but he is unable to hear her due to his injuries. Poor Sango is left heartbroken as she believes she may have lost him forever.
The Transformation of Loss
Through all of these losses, Sango is faced with immense pain and grief, but she manages to transform that grief into strength and resilience. As she continues to fight against Naraku, she becomes a vital member of the group and even helps Inuyasha and his friends defeat him in the end.
Sango’s journey through loss allows her to grow and mature, as she learns to forgive herself and others and find a new purpose in life. She not only finds a new family in Inuyasha and his gang but also becomes a positive role model for young viewers, showing that even through tragedy and loss, one can still find love and happiness.
Inuyasha © Rumiko Takahashi/Shogakukan, Yomiuri TV, Sunrise 2000