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Émile Durkheim

Yoichi Hiruma

Yoichi Hiruma(蛭魔 妖一, Hiruma Yōichi) is one of the central characters in the anime and manga seriesEyeshield 21. As one of the three founding members of theDeimon Devil Bats, alongsideRyokan KuritaandGen “Musashi” Takekura, Hiruma serves as the team’s captain and quarterback. A senior at Deimon Private Senior High School, Hiruma is known for his cunning strategies, eccentric personality, and unparalleled leadership on and off the field.

Émile Durkheim
Born
David Émile Durkheim

(1858-04-15)15 April 1858

Épinal, France
Died 15 November 1917(1917-11-15)(aged 59)

Paris,France
Nationality French
Alma mater École Normale Supérieure
Known for Sacred–profane dichotomy
Collective consciousness
Social fact
Social integration
Anomie
Collective effervescence
Scientific career
Fields Philosophy, sociology, education, anthropology, religious studies
Institutions University of Paris, University of Bordeaux
Influences Immanuel Kant, René Descartes,Plato, Herbert Spencer,Aristotle, Montesquieu, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Auguste Comte. William James, John Dewey, Fustel de Coulanges, Jean-Marie Guyau, Charles Bernard Renouvier, John Stuart Mill
Influenced Marcel Mauss,Claude Lévi-Strauss, Talcott Parsons, Maurice Halbwachs, Jonathan Haidt, Lucien Lévy-Bruhl,Bronisław Malinowski, Fernand Braudel, Pierre Bourdieu, Charles Taylor, Henri Bergson, Emmanuel Levinas, Steven Lukes, Alfred Radcliffe-Brown, E. E. Evans-Pritchard, Mary Douglas, Paul Fauconnet, Robert N. Bellah, Ziya Gökalp, David Bloor, Randall Collins, Neil Smelser[1]

Appearance

Hiruma has a striking and intimidating appearance that matches his mischievous personality. With his wild, spiky blonde hair, sharp teeth, and devilish grin, he exudes an aura of chaos and confidence. His pointed ears and distinctive features contribute to his reputation as a “demonic” figure among friends and foes alike. Hiruma is rarely seen without his signature notebook, in which he keeps information and secrets about others, which he uses for blackmail to achieve his goals.

A collection of Durkheim's courses on the origins of socialism (1896), edited and published by his nephew, Marcel Mauss, in 1928

Yoichi Hiruma from Eyeshield 21, displaying his intimidating and manipulative demeanor. Known for his sharp intelligence and devilish grin, Hiruma uses his fearsome personality to outwit opponents and motivate his teammates.

Personality

Hiruma is infamous for his devilish demeanor, manipulation tactics, and no-holds-barred approach to achieving victory. Despite his abrasive exterior, he is fiercely loyal to his teammates and demonstrates a deep understanding of each player’s strengths and weaknesses. Hiruma thrives in high-pressure situations, often devising brilliant, unconventional strategies that catch opponents off guard.

Abilities

Hiruma’s strengths lie in his unparalleled intelligence, strategic thinking, and leadership:

  • Quarterback Skills: Hiruma is an exceptional quarterback, known for his precise passing and ability to read defenses. His quick decision-making and adaptability make him a key player in the Devil Bats’ success.
  • Strategic Genius: Hiruma excels in creating complex plays and tactics tailored to exploit the weaknesses of opposing teams. His ability to anticipate moves and think several steps ahead gives the Devil Bats a significant edge.
  • Psychological Manipulation: Hiruma’s mastery of mind games often throws opponents off balance. His infamous blackmail tactics and taunts are tools he uses to keep the upper hand.
  • Firearms Expertise: In a humorous yet iconic trait, Hiruma frequently carries firearms, ranging from pistols to bazookas, using them to emphasize his points or intimidate others. While played for comedic effect, this trait underscores his chaotic and unpredictable nature.

Background

Yoichi Hiruma’s past is shrouded in mystery, but it is revealed that his tenacity and love for American football stem from his early experiences with Ryokan Kurita and Gen Takekura (Musashi). The trio founded the Deimon Devil Bats with the dream of reaching the Christmas Bowl, Japan’s ultimate high school football championship.

Hiruma’s aggressive and unorthodox methods were instrumental in building the team, from recruiting new members like Sena Kobayakawa and Taro Raimon (Monta) to securing resources and field time. His leadership and strategic brilliance turned the Devil Bats from an underdog team into serious contenders.

Role in the Story

As the captain and quarterback of the Deimon Devil Bats, Hiruma plays a central role in the series:

  • Team Leadership: Hiruma’s leadership extends beyond his tactical genius; he motivates his teammates, often through fear or blackmail, to push their limits and unlock their full potential.
  • Recruitment: Hiruma is responsible for bringing key players like Sena and Monta to the team, recognizing their hidden talents and integrating them into his strategies.
  • On-Field Commander: During games, Hiruma’s quick thinking and play-calling are pivotal to the team’s success. His ability to adapt under pressure often turns the tide in their favor.
  • Mentorship: Though he appears harsh, Hiruma genuinely cares for his teammates and helps them grow both as players and individuals. His tough-love approach pushes them to overcome their insecurities and weaknesses.

Relationships

Ryokan Kurita

Kurita is Hiruma’s closest friend and one of the founding members of the Devil Bats. Their bond is built on mutual respect and shared dreams of football glory. Hiruma often supports Kurita’s gentle and kind nature, balancing it with his own fierce determination.

Gen “Musashi” Takekura

Musashi is the third founding member of the Devil Bats. Despite their differences, Hiruma and Musashi share a deep trust and camaraderie, with Musashi’s return to the team marking a turning point in their journey to the Christmas Bowl.

Sena Kobayakawa

Hiruma sees Sena’s potential early on and recruits him as the team’s secret weapon, Eyeshield 21. While he often teases Sena, Hiruma’s faith in his abilities is unwavering, and he helps Sena grow into a confident and capable player.

Mamori Anezaki

As the team’s manager and Sena’s childhood friend, Mamori often clashes with Hiruma over his methods. Despite their bickering, Hiruma respects her dedication and role in supporting the team.

Trivia and Insights

  • The Devil’s Notebook: Hiruma’s notebook is one of his most iconic possessions, containing secrets and dirt on countless individuals. He uses it to manipulate others, but its contents remain a mystery to most.
  • Catchphrases: Hiruma frequently shouts phrases like “YA-HA!” and “FUCKING MORONS!” to express excitement or frustration, adding to his larger-than-life personality.
  • Firearms: Hiruma’s love for firearms is a running gag in the series, with him brandishing everything from pistols to flamethrowers. Despite their comedic use, they symbolize his chaotic and unpredictable nature.
  • Christmas Bowl Dream: Hiruma’s ultimate goal is to lead the Devil Bats to the Christmas Bowl, a dream he has nurtured since founding the team.

Legacy and Impact

Yoichi Hiruma’s impact on the Deimon Devil Bats and Eyeshield 21 as a whole cannot be overstated. His leadership, intelligence, and unorthodox methods transform the Devil Bats into a formidable team and inspire those around him to strive for greatness. Hiruma’s character is a testament to the power of determination, strategy, and unwavering belief in one’s goals, making him one of the most memorable figures in sports anime.