The Rising of the Shield Hero

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The Rising of the Shield Hero is an isekai light novel and anime series about Naofumi Iwatani, who is summoned to another world as the Shield Hero but faces betrayal and discrimination. The series explores themes of redemption, trust, and overcoming adversity.

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

The Rising of the Shield Hero

Format

anime

Release Year

2013

Current Status

Ongoing (light novel), 3 seasons (anime)

Country of Origin

Japan

Original Work

anime

Genre

isekai, fantasy, redemption, betrayal, shield, adventure, dark themes, character growth

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape The Rising of the Shield Hero.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

A high-fantasy world plagued by 'Waves of Catastrophe'—interdimensional monster invasions. The world is defended by four Cardinal Heroes (Shield, Spear, Sword, Bow) summoned from modern Japans, but political intrigue and religious dogma in the Kingdom of Melromarc create a hostile environment for the Shield Hero.

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

Redemption, Overcoming Prejudice, Trust vs. Betrayal, The Dark Side of Isekai, Found Family.

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing The Rising of the Shield Hero's global influence.

Creation Background

Created to explore darker themes in isekai genre and redemption narratives

Cultural Impact

Influenced discussions about justice and redemption in isekai anime

Legacy

Notable for its darker take on the isekai genre and character development

Major Milestones

2012: Web novel begins publication,2013: Light novel adaptation starts,2014: Manga adaptation begins,2019: Anime adaptation premieres,2022: Second season airs,2023: Third season airs

Awards

Crunchyroll Anime Awards nominations

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from The Rising of the Shield Hero.

Naofumi Iwatani

“I don't need anyone's help.”

A 20-year-old college student summoned as the Shield Hero who faces betrayal and discrimination but grows strongerView Profile

Raphtalia

“I will always stand by your side.”

A raccoon demi-human who becomes Naofumi's first companion and grows from child to adultView Profile

Filo

“I love Master the most!”

A filolial queen raised by Naofumi who can transform between bird and human formsView Profile

Explore all The Rising of the Shield Hero characters

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Naofumi betrayed?▼

He was betrayed by Princess Malty (Myne) who falsely accused him of assault to ruin his reputation and steal his equipment, exploiting the kingdom's existing prejudice against the Shield Hero.

Who are the Four Cardinal Heroes?▼

They are the Shield Hero (Naofumi), Spear Hero (Motoyasu), Sword Hero (Ren), and Bow Hero (Itsuki), each summoned from different versions of modern Japan.

Why is the Shield Hero hated in Melromarc?▼

The 'Three Heroes Church', the state religion, worships the Sword, Spear, and Bow but considers the Shield a devil due to historical conflicts with the demi-human nation of Siltvelt, which reveres the Shield.

Who is Raphtalia?▼

Raphtalia is a raccoon demi-human who Naofumi initially bought as a slave to fight for him. She becomes his most loyal companion, sword, and emotional anchor.

What are the Waves of Catastrophe?▼

The Waves are periodic interdimensional rifts that unleash hordes of monsters. If not stopped by the Heroes before the time limit, they will destroy the world.

What makes the Shield special?▼

Unlike the other weapons, the Shield cannot attack directly but has immense defensive capabilities, support skills, and the ability to unlock new forms by absorbing materials.

Who is Filo?▼

Filo is a Filolial Queen (a chocobo-like bird monster) hatched by Naofumi. She can transform into a human girl and serves as a powerful attacker and transport.

Is the anime finished?▼

The anime has released three seasons as of 2023. The story is ongoing in the light novels, so further adaptations are possible.

What is the 'Curse Series'?▼

It is a powerful but dangerous set of shield skills unlocked by intense negative emotions like rage. Using it comes at a heavy physical and mental cost.

Does Naofumi ever clear his name?▼

Yes, later in the series, the Queen of Melromarc returns, exposes the conspiracy against him, and clears his name, punishing those who framed him.

Official & Related Links

Find official resources and trusted references to learn more.

Official Website

Visit Official Site

Twitter

@shieldhero_anime

Facebook

ShieldHeroAnime

Instagram

@shieldhero_official

Youtube

Crunchyroll

Streaming / Watch

Characters Page

https://www.enjoyip.com/franchises/the-rising-of-the-shield-hero/characters

Works Page

https://www.enjoyip.com/franchises/the-rising-of-the-shield-hero/works

Collectibles Page

https://www.enjoyip.com/franchises/the-rising-of-the-shield-hero/collectibles

Experiences Page

https://www.enjoyip.com/franchises/the-rising-of-the-shield-hero/experiences

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