Rin // Role/Purpose

Rin is the obligatory "cute" character present in all Rumiko Takahashi universes. She is adorable, without question, and provides subtle moments of humor and innocence amidst mature, difficult situations. And despite her tender age, Rin is a well of childlike wisdom who displays acts of maturity that—more often than not—far surpass those of her superiors. (I usually think of her as the "Shippou" of Sesshoumaru's party.)

But Rin's role is significantly more important than that of Shippou, or any other "cute" character presented in Takahashi storylines, mostly because of her unique situation (it isn't every day a Takahashi child is killed and then resurrected with a magical sword), and the unusual traveling band she accompanies. Rin is not only a "cute" character, but an ironic character as well.

Sesshoumaru openly despises humans. Yet, he allows Rin to travel with him, and goes so far as to protect her from bodily harm. The irony in this shows Sesshoumaru at his most arrogant, as he is confident enough to contradict himself without giving the reader, nor the very group he travels with, a clear explanation as to "why." Sesshoumaru doesn't need a reason—or rather, chooses not to give one—to be hypocritical, for he does whatever he wants despite it going against something he passionately believes (i.e. hatred for humans). In this, Rin represents Sesshoumaru's arrogance.

Rin's presence is rather uncharacteristic of Sesshoumaru given his violent track record. He mercilessly slaughters humans and youkai alike, having little regard for life outside his own. Still, there is a "need"—I use the term loosely—to keep her close/near, for reasons Sesshoumaru may or may not understand. Since the reader is given no background information/insight into Sesshoumaru's character, it's impossible to say whether or not Sesshoumaru knows anything of children, and/or whether or not he wishes for children of his own. You wouldn't think so, given Takahashi's portrayal of his character, but that "paternal instinct"—yet another term I use loosely—shows itself in his "concern" for her well-being. It shows that, however small it may be, Sesshoumaru has the ability to "concern himself" with another living organism. In this, Rin represents Sesshoumaru's humanity (once again, however small it may be).

And because Rin is allowed access to Sesshoumaru's world, Sesshoumaru is stepping out of his secluded existence, and opening himself to new experiences. Before, Sesshoumaru cared for nothing, save himself, and whatever goal he was working to achieve. He didn't strive for anything outside of bettering the situation for himself, making him a rather flat character. With the introduction of Rin's character, Sesshoumaru is given depth and intrigue, and a chance to play a larger role in Takahashi's grand design for the Inuyasha universe. In this, Rin represents Sesshoumaru's personal growth.

Sesshoumaru becomes less and less oblivious to Rin's presence as the series progresses. It becomes more "natural" for him to protect her, as opposed to her first abduction when he is reluctant to admit his slight "concern" for her absence. It would seem Rin has become apart of his routine, as he always addresses Rin, as well as Jaken, when departing. Whether or not Rin will stay with the party after the series ends remains a mystery.

Conclusion

Rin is the "cute" member of Sesshoumaru's party who provides humor and innocence amidst a group of violent, ruthless demons. Her sagely insight gives the reader a better understanding of the characters around her and the situations that present themselves. She is essential to the personal growth of Sesshoumaru's character. It is unknown as to what her outcome will be.