1. Japan’s Feudal Age

2. Feudal Society Emperor- Highest rank; NO political power Shogun- Actual Ruler Daimyo- Large land-owners Samurai- Warriors loyal to the daimyo Peasants- ¾ population Artisans- made swords and armor Merchants- Low status; WHY?

3. Bushido Samurai Code; “The way of the warrior” Emphasized honor, bravery, and absolute loyalty to one’s lord If the code was betrayed, a samurai would be forced to commit ritual suicide rather than live without honor

4. Order and Unity under the Tokugawas Ruled from 1590-1868 Tried but failed to conquer Korea and China Centralized Feudalism- Imposed central gov. control on all Japan, but kept aspects of feudalism in place Orderly, unified society Economic growth- trade flourished.

5. Zen Buddhism Zen- emphasized meditation and devotion to duty Seemingly contradictory traditions: –Great scholars; valued “non-knowing” –Compassion for all; samurai fought & killed Believed people could reach enlightenment through performance of everyday tasks. Reverence for nature

6. Changing Artistic Traditions Theater –Kabuki Drama Portrayed family or historical events Dressed in colorful costumes; lively, exaggerated movements –Bunkaru- Puppet Plays Literature –Haiku- 3 lines, 17 syllables Painting & Printmaking –Influenced by Chinese landscape paintings –Woodblock Prints- Strong sense of pleasures of town life