A Lady's Life in Tokugawa Japan, Part I: Welcome to the Edo Era
May 8, 2024
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Travel back to Tokugawa Japan and uncover the mysterious rituals of itako shamans, explore the social structure and power dynamics of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and learn about the roles of female shamans and the eventual ban on their activities in Japanese society.
The Tokugawa Shogunate imposed seclusion policies to maintain societal control and restricted citizens from leaving Japan.
Women in Edo Japan faced discrimination based on Confucian and Buddhist beliefs, with limited roles in both religion and society.
Deep dives
Life and Society during the Tokugawa Shogunate
The Tokugawa Shogunate in early 1700s Japan brought stability through isolation and control. The rulers imposed policies of seclusion and disallowed citizens from leaving the country. The rigid class system, including samurais, farmers, artisans, and merchants, ensured societal control. The Shogun's strategies included restricting Daimyo's powers and using hostages to maintain authority. This approach led to urbanization, economic growth, and cultural flourishing.
The Role of Samurai and Women in Edo Japan
The samurai class in Edo Japan transitioned from warriors to administrative roles due to prolonged peace. Social status was symbolized by sword ownership, restricted by the Shogun. Women faced societal restrictions and discrimination due to Confucian and Buddhist beliefs. The episode also explored women's roles in religion, such as serving as shrine maidens, shamans, and the unique practices of female shamans like the Itako.
Religious Practices and Gender Discrimination in Edo Japan
Religious beliefs in Edo Japan revolved around Shinto, Buddhism, and Confucianism, emphasizing purification and worship of nature. Shinto, native to Japan, considered Kami, or divine spirits, residing in natural elements. Gender discrimination was prevalent, with women considered impure due to menstruation. The episode discussed the limited roles for women in religion and society, highlighting the challenges they faced in a male-dominated culture.
In this four-part series, we're time traveling back to Tokugawa Japan (1603-1868) to find out what life was like there for the ladies. If you've been binging Shogun lately, then this one's for you!
For show notes, including a list of sources and some cool images, go to The Exploress website (If you're dying for a full transcript, you'll find it over on my Patreon.)
In June, I'm doing a NIGHTBIRDS readalong on my other podcast, Pub Dates. Whether you're looking for a recap before FYREBIRDS comes out or are keen to read along with me for the very first time, it's going to be a lot of fun! And listeners have a chance to win a prize.
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