Inuyasha partially transforms into a full demon several times throughout the series, but his first uncontrolled and complete transformation occurs in Episode 35, “The True Owner!”. This pivotal episode marks a turning point, showcasing the terrifying power lurking within the half-demon and highlighting the constant struggle against his demonic lineage.
The Transformation in Episode 35: A Moment of Desperation
Episode 35 is a crucial installment that sets the stage for Inuyasha’s internal conflicts and the constant threat of succumbing to his demonic nature. The catalyst for his transformation is the Tessaiga’s power being stolen by Goshinki, a formidable incarnation of Naraku. Goshinki possesses the ability to read minds, rendering Inuyasha’s usual battle tactics useless.
Frustrated and weakened by Goshinki’s ability to anticipate his every move, Inuyasha finds himself on the brink of defeat. As he faces imminent death, his desperation triggers the awakening of his dormant demonic blood. The pain and rage fuel a transformation unlike anything seen before.
This initial full demon transformation is characterized by several key features:
- Physical Changes: Inuyasha’s eyes turn completely red, losing their usual amber hue. Black markings spread across his face, and his fangs and claws lengthen dramatically. His hair also loses its silver sheen, becoming a darker, more intense color.
- Loss of Control: The most significant aspect is Inuyasha’s complete loss of self-awareness. He becomes a feral, uncontrollable beast driven by instinct and bloodlust, unable to distinguish friend from foe. He attacks anything that moves, driven only by a primal need to destroy.
- Immense Power: The transformation grants Inuyasha a significant increase in strength and speed. He becomes a destructive force, capable of easily overpowering Goshinki, the very opponent who had previously overwhelmed him.
This episode demonstrates the raw power and danger inherent in Inuyasha’s demonic heritage. It serves as a constant reminder of the fine line he walks between being a hero and a monster.
Understanding the Demon Blood: The Source of the Transformation
Inuyasha’s transformation is a direct result of his lineage. He is a Hanyo, a half-demon born from a human mother and a powerful dog demon father. This hybrid nature grants him significant abilities but also leaves him vulnerable to the influence of his demonic blood.
His father, a powerful and respected dog demon, had deliberately sought to temper the demonic instincts within Inuyasha, leaving him with a more balanced nature. However, when faced with extreme emotional stress or near-death situations, the demonic blood can take over, overriding his human side and triggering the transformation.
The Role of the Tessaiga
The Tessaiga, Inuyasha’s father’s sword, plays a crucial role in controlling his demonic powers. The sword acts as a limiter, suppressing the full extent of his demonic potential and allowing him to maintain his human rationality. However, when the Tessaiga is removed or its power negated, as in Episode 35, the dam breaks, unleashing the full force of his demonic heritage.
Recurring Transformations and Overcoming the Demon Within
While Episode 35 marks the first significant uncontrolled full demon transformation, Inuyasha experiences this phenomenon on several other occasions throughout the series. Each transformation serves as a test of his will and his ability to maintain control over his demonic nature.
Eventually, Inuyasha learns to harness and control his demonic powers, achieving a more balanced state and preventing uncontrolled transformations. This mastery is a crucial aspect of his character development, allowing him to become a more powerful and reliable ally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Inuyasha’s transformations and his demonic heritage:
FAQ 1: What exactly triggers Inuyasha’s full demon transformation?
His full demon transformation is usually triggered by extreme emotional distress, particularly feelings of rage, despair, or the threat of death. It’s a self-preservation mechanism fueled by his demonic blood when he feels vulnerable.
FAQ 2: Does Inuyasha retain his memory after transforming?
Initially, no. During his first uncontrolled transformation in Episode 35, he loses all sense of self and becomes a mindless beast. As he gains more control later in the series, he sometimes retains fragments of memory, but his judgment remains severely impaired.
FAQ 3: Is Inuyasha’s full demon form stronger than his usual form?
Undeniably, yes. His strength, speed, and regenerative abilities are drastically amplified in his full demon form, making him a formidable opponent. However, this increased power comes at the cost of control.
FAQ 4: How does the Tessaiga prevent Inuyasha’s full demon transformation?
The Tessaiga suppresses the full extent of his demonic powers, acting as a limiter. It keeps his demonic blood in check, allowing him to maintain his rationality and prevent uncontrolled transformations. When the Tessaiga is unavailable or its power is negated, the demonic blood surges forward.
FAQ 5: Does Inuyasha ever willingly transform into a full demon?
No, he never willingly transforms in the beginning. He actively resists it due to the loss of control. Later, he learns to tap into his demonic power without fully transforming, achieving a better balance.
FAQ 6: Is there a difference between Inuyasha’s full demon form and his awakened demon power?
Yes. The full demon form is a complete and uncontrolled transformation, resulting in a loss of self. Awakened demon power, on the other hand, involves tapping into his demonic heritage to enhance his abilities while maintaining control and rationality.
FAQ 7: How does Inuyasha eventually gain control over his demonic powers?
Through rigorous training, self-reflection, and the support of his companions, Inuyasha learns to understand and control his demonic nature. He learns to channel his emotions and focus his will, preventing uncontrolled transformations. The journey to master his demonic heritage is a crucial part of his character development.
FAQ 8: Does Inuyasha’s appearance change significantly with each transformation?
Yes, the appearance changes. However, the most significant difference is the initial transformation as seen in episode 35, when his eyes turn completely red, black markings appear, and his features become more feral. Subsequent transformations are generally consistent with this initial look, but vary with the degree of control he has.
FAQ 9: Are there other characters who can trigger Inuyasha’s transformation besides Goshinki?
Yes, any situation involving extreme emotional distress or the threat of death can trigger his transformation. Characters who exploit his vulnerabilities, such as Naraku, are particularly effective at pushing him to the edge.
FAQ 10: Does the transformation affect Inuyasha’s relationship with Kagome?
Yes, initially, it creates fear and distrust. Kagome struggles to reconcile the terrifying beast with the Inuyasha she knows. However, as Inuyasha gains control and proves his loyalty, their bond strengthens, and Kagome learns to accept and even rely on his demonic strength. Her ability to use the “Sit Boy” command becomes a comical, but essential, safeguard.
FAQ 11: Does Inuyasha’s half-demon status make him weaker or stronger than a full demon?
Initially, his half-demon status makes him more vulnerable, as he struggles to control his demonic powers. However, his human side also tempers his bloodlust and grants him a greater capacity for compassion and empathy. Ultimately, it is his hybrid nature and his ability to reconcile his two sides that make him a unique and powerful warrior.
FAQ 12: Does Inuyasha remain a half-demon at the end of the series?
(Spoilers ahead!) In the final episode, the Jewel of Four Souls vanishes, and Inuyasha temporarily becomes fully human. However, the magic of the Shikon Jewel is removed, and he later regains his half-demon status, having found a balance and acceptance of both sides of his heritage.