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Émile Durkheim

Shinji Ikari

  • Japanese Name: 碇シンジ (Ikari Shinji)
  • Designation: Third Child, Pilot of Evangelion Unit-01
  • Franchise:Neon Genesis Evangelion

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

Shinji is characterized by his tousled black hair and striking blue eyes, which often reflect his emotional state. He typically wears a standard school uniform, and his plugsuit for the Evangelion is predominantly purple, symbolizing his connection to Unit-01. His physical appearance mirrors his internal struggles, portraying a sense of vulnerability amidst the chaos around 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 contemplative expression, Shinji Ikari stares into the distance, reflecting on his complex emotions and the weight of his choices as he navigates the tumultuous world around him.

Background and Role

Shinji Ikari stands as the central protagonist of the Neon Genesis Evangelion series. As the Third Child, he is thrust into the chaos of battling Angels as the designated pilot of Evangelion Unit-01. Born to NERV Commander Gendo Ikari and bioengineer Yui Ikari, his early life is marked by tragedy. Following his mother’s death during an experiment, Shinji is abandoned by his father, leading to an emotionally tumultuous upbringing.

For eleven years, Shinji lives under the care of his teacher before being summoned to Tokyo-3 by NERV. His return to his father’s life is fraught with tension and unresolved feelings, setting the stage for his struggle against both external threats and his inner demons. As he navigates his role as an Eva pilot, Shinji grapples with feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and a desperate desire for acceptance.

Personality and Development

Shinji’s character is defined by his deep-seated insecurities and emotional turmoil. He often exhibits a lack of self-confidence, struggling with feelings of worthlessness and isolation. His reluctance to engage with others, coupled with his desire for connection, creates a complex character that resonates with many viewers.

Throughout the series, Shinji’s relationships with other characters—especially his interactions with Asuka Langley Sohryu and Rei Ayanami—serve to highlight his struggles. His dynamic with Asuka is marked by a blend of rivalry and mutual understanding, while his bond with Rei touches on themes of identity and companionship. As Shinji confronts the traumas of his past, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, grappling with existential questions about purpose and existence.

Role in The End of Evangelion

In The End of Evangelion, Shinji’s journey reaches a critical and transformative moment. The film explores his psychological state during Instrumentality, delving into his innermost thoughts and fears. As he grapples with the meaning of his existence and the connections he has made, Shinji is faced with the ultimate choice of whether to embrace individuality or dissolve into a collective existence. This profound confrontation leads to a climax that underscores the themes of identity, choice, and acceptance.

Legacy

Shinji Ikari remains a pivotal figure in the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise, representing the intricate nature of human emotion and the quest for connection. His story—filled with pain, growth, and ultimately, acceptance—makes him one of the most compelling and enduring characters in anime history. Through his struggles, Shinji’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding viewers of the power of vulnerability and the importance of understanding oneself.

Trivia

Philosophical Undertones: Shinji’s struggles often reflect philosophical concepts, such as existentialism and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. His journey resonates with viewers seeking to understand their own feelings of isolation and the human condition.
Cultural Impact: As a protagonist, Shinji is both praised and criticized, sparking discussions about masculinity and vulnerability in anime. His character has influenced countless narratives in the genre, emphasizing the importance of emotional depth in storytelling.
Symbol of Humanity: Shinji embodies the complexity of human emotions, making him a relatable figure for audiences. His journey highlights the importance of confronting one’s fears and the struggle for self-acceptance.