Traditionalist

Shafi'i approach may be seen as a middle way between Hanafi and Maliki methodologies, the former defined at times as "more rational" and the latter "more scriptural". Hanafis definetly allow lot of "intellectual devices" in the process of deriving Islamic law while Malikis limit that process by heavily relying on the practice of the People of Medina. Imam Shafi'i relied on scriptural sources with more emphasis on single-chain reports from the Prophet rather than the practice of the People of Medina; however he limited the Hanafi-like intellectual process, for example by resorting to analogy (qiyas) when necessary but rejecting legal preference (istihsan) and similar tools.

With prayers for your success.