Shogun Episode 3 Ending Analysis: Unraveling Toranaga’s Strategy Towards Blackthorne
Discover how John Blackthorne's role as Hatamoto unfolds in the captivating saga of Shōgun Episode 3.
Shōgun episode 3, “Tomorrow is Tomorrow,” concludes with Toranaga strengthening his bond with Blackthorne by naming him Hatamato as they gear up for battle. After a failed assassination attempt on Blackthorne in episode 2, Toranaga realizes that it is no longer safe to remain in Osaka. Unable to leave the castle himself, Yoshii devises a plan to flee during what was supposed to be his wife’s departure from Osaka. Despite Toranaga's deception being uncovered, Ishido is unable to prevent their escape.
John Blackthorne Becomes Lord Toranaga's Vassal
While Toranaga and his regime managed to escape Osaka, it came at a cost. Several samurai, including Lady Mariko’s husband, were killed. Toranaga also had to make a deal with the Portuguese merchants, despite his dissatisfaction with their presence in Macau. Escaping was particularly challenging for Blackthorne, as the Portuguese denied his presence on the Black Ship. As the characters' plans and ambitions in Shōgun unfold, episode 3 hints at an impending war.
A closeup of John Blackthorne in Shogun episode 3 - Shōgun’s John Blackthorne Is Now A Vassal Of Lord Toranaga
John Blackthorne, once seen as a barbarian, is now a trusted vassal of Lord Toranaga. His loyalty and skills have earned him a place among Toranaga's allies. Being named "Hatamoto" by Toranaga is a sign of recognition for his courage and abilities. As a Hatamoto, John's pilot skills will now play a crucial role in Toranaga's plans. This title, meaning guardian or protector of the flag, shows how important John has become in Toranaga's fiefdom.
Between Toranaga's return to Edo and John being asked to train his lord's troops in European naval tactics, it is evident that a conflict is looming in Shōgun.
Blackthorne's initial task as a vassal of Toranaga is to instruct his troops in foreign naval techniques that are unfamiliar to them. The expertise of the English sailor is crucial in preparing Toranaga's soldiers for the impending war, particularly because Japan has only recently begun trading with the West via Portugal. In addition to training the samurai for sea battles, Blackthorne will also impart valuable lessons to Toranaga himself. The third episode of Shōgun concludes with John teaching Yoshii the proper way to dive, symbolizing their newfound partnership.
What Lord Toranaga’s Resignation From The Council Of Regents Means
Lord Toranaga looks behind him during a meeting with other lords and samurai - What Lord Toranaga’s Resignation From The Council Of Regents Means
Lord Toranaga has stepped down from his position on the Council of Regents, as revealed in the latest episode of Shōgun. Toda Hiromatsu informed Lord Ishido about Toranaga's resignation. Toranaga made this decision because he knew he was about to be impeached, which would have resulted in his death. He quietly resigned before escaping from Osaka and heading towards Edo for safety. Ishido and the other regents only found out about Toranaga's resignation after he had left. Ishido argued that a piece of paper wouldn't prevent them from taking action, but any decision by the Council of Regents required approval from all five members.
Character | Actor | Real-Life Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
Yoshii Toranaga | Hiroyuki Sanada | Tokugawa Ieyasu |
John Blackthorne | Cosmo Jarvis | William Adams |
Toda Mariko | Anna Sawai | Hosokawa Gracia |
Kashigi Yabushige | Tadanobu Asano | Honda Masanobu |
Kashigi Omi | Hiroto Kanai | Honda Masazumi |
Ishido Kazunari | Takehiro Hira | Ishida Mitsunari |
Lord Toranaga's move outwits Ishido and the other lords
If Ishido and the other three lords accept Toranaga’s resignation, they cannot impeach him. However, if they ignore the resignation and keep Toranaga’s title as they wait for him to return, they will not be able to get any decision approved as the council will always be missing a member. Lord Toranaga’s move was incredibly smart and put Ishido in check. While this does not solve the problem – Yoshii is still in danger and has no allies in Osaka – it does buy him some time to prepare for an eventual war.
Toranaga holding his sword during a battle in Shogun episode 3 - Why The Portuguese Helped Lord Toranaga Fled From Osaka
Even though Toranaga initially refused to allow the Portuguese Black Ship passage in Shōgun episode 2 due to their secret base in Macau, a deal was eventually struck with the Jesuits. The arrangement involved the Jesuits assisting Toranaga and John Blackthorne in safely escaping Osaka on a ship. In return, Toranaga promised that the Black Ship could depart Japan for Macau without facing any consequences. To sweeten the deal, Toranaga also offered a substantial amount of silver, solidifying an unexpected partnership. With Toranaga and his allies boarding a Portuguese vessel, Ishido was left powerless to intervene.
Why Rodrigues Left John Get Ahead Of The Ship
Rodrigues talking to Blackthorne on a ship in Shogun episode 1 - Why Rodrigues Left John Get Ahead Of The Ship
Even though Toranaga and the Portuguese reached a deal, the latter demanded that Blackthorne would stay behind. The Protestant pilot had been a threat to the Catholic priests ever since his arrival in Japan, as John not only briefed the Japanese on different countries and religions from Europe but also revealed the existence of Portuguese bases in the region. This is why John had to seek help from the local fisherman and sail by himself to catch up with Black Ship. Still, Rodrigues, who could’ve left John way behind the Portuguese ship, surprisingly left John to get ahead of them.
John Blackthorne saved Rodrigues from dying in the storm in Shōgun episode 1 when they were heading to Osaka together. The two characters had already formed a quick bond upon their first meeting, as Rodrigues was faithfully translating John’s words and did not try to get him killed. Rodrigues now had the chance to leave John behind and end the Englishman problem once and for all but decided to pay his debt to the pilot. After John made it out of the blockade, Rodrigues stated that they were now even.
Why The Fishermen Helpd John Blackthorne
John Blackthorne saves a man from falling from a ship in Shogun episode 1 - Why The Fishermen Helpd John Blackthorne
What Happened To Mariko’s Husband In Shōgun
John’s skills were indeed impressive, but he would not have been able to leave the harbor without the assistance of the local fishermen. They had previously helped John during a storm in episode 1, where they all relied on the Anjin to survive. It was this shared experience that led Rodrigues to leave John behind and sail ahead with their ship. Despite his penchant for causing trouble, Blackthorne had a knack for making friends easily. The captain of the fishermen's boat, whom John respectfully referred to as "captain-sama," wasted no time in offering assistance to Blackthorne and Toranaga’s allies upon their arrival.
A closeup of Toda Buntaro in samurai armor in Shogun episode 3 - What Happened To Mariko’s Husband In Shōgun
Mariko’s husband, Toda Buntaro, a samurai, stayed back to fight Ishido’s men while the rest of Toranaga’s group boarded the ship. Though Buntaro's death was not shown on screen, it is implied that he passed away while bravely battling to protect his family and allies. Earlier in the episode, Mariko hinted at Buntaro's fate when she described him as a highly honorable and skilled warrior.
Why Toranaga Is Going To Edo At The End Of Shōgun Episode 3
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Toranaga in Shogun in front of ships arriving in Japan - Why Toranaga Is Going To Edo At The End Of Shōgun Episode 3
Tokugawa Ieyasu, the historical figure behind Yoshii Toranaga, was born in Mikawa Province but later established his castle in Edo, which eventually became Tokyo. Similarly to Ieyasu, Lord Toranaga was initially raised as a hostage but eventually solidified his power in Edo. In the story so far, Toranaga has been depicted in Osaka, where he faced the constant threat of being impeached. Fleeing from Osaka and realizing the precariousness of his situation, Toranaga will now regroup in his castle.
Shōgun Episode 3 Confirms A War Is About To Start
John Blackthrone looking scared and holding a staff in Shogun episode 3 - Shōgun Episode 3 Confirms A War Is About To Start
Between Toranaga's return to Edo and John's enlistment to train his lord's regiment in European battleship techniques, it's evident that a war is looming in Shōgun. Despite stepping down from the Council of Regents, Toranaga remains a formidable foe to Ishido and the Christian lords. With the historical backdrop of Shōgun, it's likely that the show will showcase epic battles with far-reaching consequences for Japan's future. This anticipation adds to the excitement for the upcoming episodes of Shōgun.
Shōgun releases new episodes Tuesdays on FX and Hulu.
Editor's P/S:
The article provides a comprehensive summary of the third episode of "Shōgun," highlighting the significant events and character developments that shape the narrative. It effectively captures the essence of the episode, providing insights into the evolving relationships between John Blackthorne, Lord Toranaga, and the other characters. The analysis of Toranaga's resignation from the Council of Regents and the deal struck with the Portuguese merchants adds depth to the understanding of the political complexities and strategic maneuvers taking place.
Overall, the article serves as a valuable resource for viewers seeking a deeper understanding of the episode's plot and themes. It effectively summarizes the key events and provides thoughtful analysis, making it an informative and engaging read for fans of the show.
