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Émile Durkheim

Naofumi Iwatani

  • Role: Protagonist ofThe Rising of the Shield Heroseries
  • Title: Shield Hero (盾の勇者, Tate no Yuusha)
  • Status: One of the Four Legendary Heroes summoned to protect the kingdom of Melromarc from recurring Waves of Catastrophe

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]

Personality and Characteristics

Naofumi starts as a hopeful and kind young man, eager to be a hero. However, after being falsely accused of a serious crime early in his journey, he becomes cynical and distrusting. This betrayal shapes him into a pragmatic and resilient individual, unafraid to take morally gray actions to survive in a hostile world. Naofumi’s distrust of others makes him resourceful, cautious, and driven to rely on his own strength and the few he deems trustworthy. Despite his guarded nature, he holds a strong sense of justice and genuine kindness toward those who are loyal to him.

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

With a fierce glare and clenched jaw, Naofumi Iwatani’s anger reflects his determination and resilience, showing the unwavering strength that drives him to overcome every challenge.

Abilities

  • Shield Hero: As the Shield Hero, Naofumi is unable to wield traditional offensive weapons, relying instead on a wide array of shields with various defensive and supportive abilities. The shields are able to evolve, offering unique powers as he progresses.
  • Defensive Mastery: His shields grant him superior protection, healing abilities, and resistance to various forms of damage, allowing him to act as an indomitable force in battle.
  • Rage Shield: One of his strongest forms, activated by his intense emotions. While incredibly powerful, the Rage Shield poses a danger to Naofumi and his allies due to its uncontrollable nature.

Role in the Story

Naofumi’s journey begins with his summoning to Melromarc as the Shield Hero. Initially, he finds himself an outcast among the Four Legendary Heroes, who look down on his defensive capabilities. Following a betrayal by the kingdom, Naofumi’s image as a hero is tarnished, leading him to become the kingdom’s scapegoat. With no allies and limited resources, Naofumi slowly builds a team of loyal companions who recognize his true character. His role as a hero transforms from traditional savior to a protector who strives to defend those who cannot defend themselves.

Relationships

Raphtalia

Naofumi’s first and most loyal companion, Raphtalia is a demi-human who starts as his slave but becomes his closest ally and friend. Her unwavering loyalty helps restore his trust in others.

Filo

A bird-like creature known as a Filolial, Filo hatches from an egg Naofumi acquires, quickly bonding with him and becoming a valuable ally. She brings a sense of joy to Naofumi’s life, offering companionship and loyalty.

Other Heroes

Naofumi’s relationships with the other three Legendary Heroes (Sword, Spear, and Bow Heroes) are strained due to their initial mistreatment of him and refusal to acknowledge his abilities. Over time, however, some of them begin to respect him.

Trivia and Insights

  • Adaptability: Although unable to use offensive weapons, Naofumi’s adaptability allows him to find unconventional ways to defeat enemies, often relying on his intellect and creative shield abilities.
  • Popularity: Despite his reserved nature, Naofumi becomes highly respected by the people he protects, gradually building a reputation as a true hero.
  • True Strength: His strength is not just physical but emotional, showing resilience in the face of relentless adversity and betrayal, embodying the true spirit of a protector.

Legacy and Impact

Naofumi’s journey from a falsely accused outcast to a powerful hero showcases his emotional growth and determination. His time as the Shield Hero teaches him not only the power of loyalty but also the strength of conviction, inspiring those around him to believe in his mission. By the end of his journey, Naofumi’s transformation is a testament to his resilience and bravery, proving that a hero’s strength lies not only in power but in the will to protect others.