The second episode of the FX original miniseries Shogun delves into the fate of the Taikō, the revered retired regent who ruled over a unified Japan until his passing in 1599. Despite his efforts to maintain peace and harmony among warlords, his death sparks a dangerous power struggle that threatens to unravel the stability he worked so hard to establish. As his son prepares to ascend the throne, a new enemy emerges, reminiscent of the challenges the Taikō once faced.
Shogun introduces a captivating ensemble of characters drawn from the rich histories of Japan, Portugal, and England. The miniseries debuted its initial two episodes on February 27, with subsequent episodes set to air weekly. Based on James Clavell's acclaimed 1975 novel, the show originally came to life as a miniseries in 1980, featuring iconic performances by Toshiro Mifune as Toranaga and Richard Chamberlain as Blackthorne. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a glimpse into the lives of key figures from this tumultuous era, including the enigmatic Taikō.
The Taikō's Fate Was Revealed In Shogun Episode 2's Flashback
The Taiko on His Deathbed in FX Shogun - The Taikō's Fate Was Revealed In Shogun Episode 2's Flashback
Shogun episode 2, "Servants of Two Masters," takes viewers back a year in time to the Taikō on his deathbed, weakened by illness. The warlords of Japan have gathered to pay their respects to the man who unified the nation. After bidding farewell to Yaechiyo, his young son, the Taikō requests to be left alone. All the warlords depart, including Toranaga, but the Taikō calls him back for a private audience.
In his final moments, the Taikō offers Toranaga the role of sole Regent until Yaechiyo comes of age at 16, but Toranaga anticipates potential opposition from their enemies. The Taikō, who has spent his life "working to subdue [their] infighting," reveals his decision to appoint Shogun's five regent warlords to establish a Council of Regents to govern collectively until the heir reaches maturity. The chosen five are Ishido, Kiyama, Ohno, Sugiyama, and Toranaga. Following this meeting, the Taikō eventually succumbs to his illness.
What Caused The Uprising Against The Taikō In Shogun
Toranaga wearing battle gear turns to look forward in Shogun - What Caused The Uprising Against The Taikō In Shogun
Blackthorne learns from a friar named Domingo in prison that all trade goes through the Portuguese through usury. "The late Taikō even tried to put a stop to it, but the Church incited the rebellion, smuggled guns from that secret base in Macao." Blackthorne later informs Minowara Toranaga that the base has hundreds of Catholic Japanese ronin employed in the uprising, and that the Portuguese aim to establish Catholic rule in Japan.
Toranaga, realizing the value of Blackthorne's information and the threat it poses to the Church, protects him from an assassin sent to kill him by switching their resting places and outsmarting her. As a result, Blackthorne's life is spared. To discover the unfolding events, viewers will need to tune in to the next episode of FX's Shogun.
Shogun is streaming on FX and Hulu.
Editor's P/S:
The second episode of the FX miniseries Shogun takes viewers back in time to the Taikō's deathbed, revealing the events that led to the dangerous power struggle threatening Japan's stability. The episode delves into the Taikō's efforts to maintain peace and harmony among warlords, ultimately leading to his decision to appoint a Council of Regents to govern until his son comes of age. This decision sets the stage for the conflict that unfolds in the series.
The article also sheds light on the uprising against the Taikō, which was incited by the Church and involved the smuggling of guns from Macao. The Portuguese aimed to establish Catholic rule in Japan, posing a significant threat to the country's political and religious landscape. The article leaves viewers with a sense of anticipation as they await the next episode to witness the unfolding events and the fate of those involved in this complex and tumultuous era.
