Dr. Satona Suzuki, a specialist in Japanese history from SOAS, joins comedian Ahir Shah to unravel the intricacies of the Edo period. They discuss the transformation of Edo into Tokyo under the Tokugawa shogunate, shedding light on the vibrant cultural scene, societal hierarchies, and the complexities of foreign relations. The conversation dives into the nuances of art, theater, and the era’s legacy, drawing parallels to modern Japanese culture, including the influence of manga. It's a fascinating journey through a pivotal era in Japan's history!
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Ahir's Shogun Experience
Ahir Shah watched "Shogun" and listened to its audiobook.
He felt very knowledgeable about the Edo period because of this.
insights INSIGHT
Edo Period Duration
The Edo period in Japan began in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu became shogun.
It lasted until 1867, when Tokugawa Yoshinobu returned power to the emperor.
insights INSIGHT
Tokugawa Ieyasu's Rise
Tokugawa Ieyasu wasn't the first shogun, but the first to rule all of Japan.
He consolidated power after a period of warfare, culminating in the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600.
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Shōgun is a historical novel that chronicles the end of Japan's Azuchi-Momoyama period and the dawn of the Edo period. The story centers around John Blackthorne, an English navigator who becomes shipwrecked in Japan and becomes embroiled in the complex political dynamics of the region. Blackthorne must navigate a foreign culture, learn the language, and adapt to the customs of feudal Japan, all while being caught in the midst of a power struggle between powerful daimyōs, particularly Toranaga and Ishido. The novel explores themes of cultural clash, adaptation, political intrigue, and personal transformation, providing a vivid portrayal of the collision between Eastern and Western cultures[3][5][2].
In this episode, Greg Jenner is joined in 17th-Century Japan by Dr Satona Suzuki and comedian Ahir Shah to learn all about the Edo period and the Tokugawa shogunate.
When he came to power in 1603, Tokugawa Ieyasu became the first shogun to rule over all Japan. He made Edo – later renamed Tokyo – his power base, and over the 250 years of Tokugawa rule, this small town became one of the largest cities in the world. This episode charts the rise and fall of the shogunate, and explores what life was like for people living in Japan at this time. From politics to theatre, and taking in foreign relations, the class system, art and literature, Greg and his guests get to grips with all aspects of life in the Edo period.
This is a radio edit of the original podcast episode. For the full-length version, please look further back in the feed.
Hosted by: Greg Jenner
Research by: Annabel Storr
Written by: Annabel Storr, Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner
Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
Production Coordinator: Ben Hollands
Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse
Executive Editor: James Cook
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