The Game-Changing Transformation of Raphtalia in Rising of the Shield Hero

Warning: Spoilers ahead for episode #2 of The Rising of the Shield Hero season 3. Season 3 of The Rising of the Shield Hero presents an opportunity to address a significant issue with Raphtalia's character. While Raphtalia initially had a strong presence, her agency diminished as the series increasingly focused on her relationship with Naofumi. This problem was particularly evident in season 2, where much of her development was overlooked.

Raphtalia has been lacking in character development, but episode #2 of The Rising of the Shield Hero season 3 offers a chance to rectify that. Titled "Nadia," the episode features Naofumi, Raphtalia, and Filo facing off against Nadia. During their battle, revelations about Nadia emerge that deeply connect with Raphtalia's character, independent of her relationship with Naofumi.

Expanding on this concept, Shield Hero has the potential to further develop Raphtalia's character without overly emphasizing her connection with Naofumi. This approach would result in a more robust storyline for both Raphtalia and the entire series.

Rising of the Shield Hero's New Character Can Bring Raphtalia Back To Her Roots

The importance of Nadia for Raphtalia's development in The Rising of the Shield Hero season 3 lies in her ability to reconnect Raphtalia with her origins. In Episode #2, it is revealed that Nadia is actually Sadeena, a demihuman from Raphtalia's village whom Raphtalia regarded as a sister. This dynamic allows the focus to shift back to the tragedies Raphtalia had to endure and the subsequent changes experienced by her and the other villagers. Such introspection would greatly benefit Raphtalia's character development, especially if it does not solely revolve around Naofumi.

Why Naofumi & Raphtalia's Relationship Is A Problem

Sadeena's presence could greatly improve the way Raphtalia is portrayed in her relationship with Naofumi, raising the question of why this issue even exists. While the fact that Raphtalia is technically bound to Naofumi as his "slave" through a magical contract is already a contentious subject, the real problem lies in the excessive focus on her feelings for Naofumi. This became especially evident after she exacted revenge on her previous master in season 1, leaving her character without any further development for the remainder of the season. Consequently, one of the most intriguing characters in The Rising of the Shield Hero became mundane to watch, with little justification for this narrative direction.

Unfortunately, this kind of issue is common not only in anime and manga but also in fiction in general. Stories often struggle to provide meaningful roles for certain characters beyond being the love interest of the protagonist. While this is not always the case, The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 3 has the opportunity to break away from that cliché by developing Raphtalia independently through her relationship with Sadeena. It remains uncertain if this will happen, but if it does, the series would greatly benefit from it. Watch new episodes of The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 3 on Crunchyroll, released every Friday.