Japanese Feudalism

Japanese Feudalism•Clans and local warlords battle for control and produce a warrior aristocracy.•Shogun – supreme military commander held total power.

Distributed lands to the Daimyo (vassals).Daimyo granted lands to the Samurai

Followed a code of values called Bushido and emphasized honor and the rule of Seppuku.

Japanese Feudalism•Noblewomen originally had a high status in society but that eventually declined.

Ex: inheritance, bushido, marriage, and loyalty.

•Peasants, artisans, and merchants occupied the lowest level in society but mobility was possible.

Tokugawa Shogunate•Economic Prosperity –

Improved agriculture – tools, fertilizersTrade – roads linking castle townsMerchants and artisans gained status in society

Tokugawa Shogunate•1600 – Tokugawa Ieyasu established rule until 1868.

Central Government – Central FeudalismOrderly society – Lords and families lived in the capital Edo.Strict rules and regulations – Ex: marriage, castles.Strict moral code – Ex: military, government, jobs, clothing, women.

Zen Buddhism•Meditation and devotion to duty – Devotion to nature

•Elaborate rituals – Tea Ceremony

•Popular with the Samurai

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOCiOOJoWXk

Artistic Traditions•Theatre –

No Plays – Zen Buddhist themes Kabuki – drama and comedy Bunraku – puppet plays

• Literature – Stories, essays, and poems reflecting Zen values Haiku – feelings, thoughts and ideas

• Landscape Paintings• Woodblock prints