Why does Sesshōmaru say he has no one to protect?
Sesshōmaru asserts he has no one to protect because he fundamentally believes that the act of protecting others is a sign of weakness, an undignified pursuit for a powerful great yōkai like himself.
A Philosophy of Solitary Strength
Sesshōmaru's conviction stems from a deeply ingrained personal philosophy centered on power, independence, and the perceived superiority of a full-blooded yōkai. From his perspective, a truly formidable demon does not rely on or extend protection to others, as this could imply a form of attachment or vulnerability. He views such acts as distractions from the pursuit of ultimate strength and individual prowess, believing a great yōkai should stand alone.
The Impact of Tōga's Sacrifice
This belief was profoundly reinforced and solidified by the actions and subsequent death of his father, Tōga, also known as the Great Dog Demon. Tōga sacrificed his life to protect his new hanyō (half-demon) son, Inuyasha, and Inuyasha's human mother, Izayoi. Sesshōmaru viewed this ultimate act of self-sacrifice not as noble, but as "pathetic and unworthy" for a yōkai of his father's immense stature and power.
- Reinforced Disdain: His father's death cemented Sesshōmaru's disdain for those Tōga protected, specifically his half-brother and human mother, whom he came to despise.
- Perceived Weakness: This event solidified his belief that extending protection, especially to those he considered weaker or impure, was a monumental flaw and a demonstration of weakness rather than true strength.
Contempt for Vulnerability
Sesshōmaru harbors a deep-seated contempt for vulnerability, sentimentality, and any emotional attachments that might hinder a yōkai's ascent to power. His proclamation that he has no one to protect is a direct reflection of this worldview, where emotional connections are liabilities and true power lies in absolute self-reliance and indifference to the fate of others. This unyielding perspective shapes his interactions and defines his early character.
