Japanese Feudalism Clans & local warlords battle for control and produce a warrior aristocracy. Shogun – supreme military commander held total power. Distributed lands to Daimyo (great warrior lords). Daimyo granted lands to the Samurai Followed code of values called Bushido, emphasized honor and rule of Seppuku (suicide rather than dying in shame).

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.

Improved agriculture – tools, fertilizers Tokugawa Shogunate Economic Prosperity – Improved agriculture – tools, fertilizers Trade – roads linking castle towns Merchants and artisans gained status in society

Tokugawa Shogunate 1600 – Tokugawa Ieyasu established rule until 1868. Central Government – Central Feudalism Orderly 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.

Meditation and devotion to duty – Devotion to nature Zen Buddhism Meditation and devotion to duty – Devotion to nature Elaborate rituals – Tea Ceremony Popular with Samurai (lesser warriors)

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