Fin vs History Men: Talk To Your Mates (and then Behead them) | Feudal Japan (Part 1)
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Oct 6, 2025 Joining the discussion is Horatio Gould, a frequent co-host known for his engaging historical insights and playful banter. The spotlight turns to feudal Japan, starting with the absurdity of accent enthusiasts and the stark masculinity of the era. They delve into ritual seppuku as both a cultural centerpiece and dark humor, explore the Mongol invasions' mythical status, and discuss the emergence of samurai values like honor and loyalty. Finally, they examine Oda Nobunaga's ruthless rise to power, setting the stage for more captivating tales ahead.
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Seppuku Defined Social Honor
- Fin Taylor and Horatio Gould highlight extreme ritualised suicide as a defining cultural feature in feudal Japan.
- They observe seppuku shaped social norms and honour more than modern therapeutic approaches.
Emperor As Ritualized Figure
- The emperor became largely symbolic while real power shifted to regional daimyo and military regimes.
- Horatio Gould explains Japan's feudal structure mirrored medieval England but with a ritualised emperor role.
Bushido Prioritised Loyalty Over Life
- Samurai emerged as vassal warriors serving daimyo under a strict Bushido code prioritising loyalty over life.
- That code institutionalised honour-driven acts, including ritual suicide to redeem failure.
