The FX/Hulu series Shōgun showcases a historically accurate ranking system and hierarchy, which is a key structural aspect of this acclaimed historical epic. Similar to Game of Thrones, the plot revolves around power-seeking factions vying for control over feudal Japan in the early 17th century. Lord Yoshii Toranaga, portrayed by Hiroyuki Sanada, is one of the five members of the Council of Regents, established by Japan's previous ruler, the Taikō, until his heir Yaechiyo reaches maturity.
In the world of Shōgun, the Council of Regents functions as a unified ruling body governing Japan during this era, expected to uphold power for approximately a decade until Yaechiyo assumes leadership. This mirrors the historical reality of feudal Japan prior to the Tokugawa shogunate's dominance throughout the Edo Period from 1603 to 1868. Yoshii Toranaga's character draws inspiration from Tokugawa Ieyasu, a former member of the Council of Five Elders who ultimately seized control of Japan following the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600.
Shogun's Ruling Order Explained (With Ranks In Descending Order)
A closeup of Lord Toranaga in armor in Shogun - Shogun's Ruling Order Explained (With Ranks In Descending Order)
The Taikō, the highest ranking member in the early episodes of Shōgun, is shown on his death bed in a flashback scene in episode 2 "Servants of Two Masters". He served as the de facto leader of a divided Japan until his passing, with no Emperor in place. Following the Taikō's death, power was shared among the Council of Regents, including Yoshii Toranaga, Ishido Kazunari, Sugiyama, Kiyama ukon Sadanaga, and Ohno Harunobu, until the Taikō's heir reached maturity.
Daimyos, feudal lords and landowners, were vassals of those in power. Karo, high-ranking samurai and vassals, held significant positions as well. Samurai were considered working-class warriors, while Ronin, who were masterless and dishonorable samurai, lacked ties to their family lineage in some instances. The shogun, the top military ruler in feudal Japan, held the most power despite being outranked by the Emperor, who held little actual authority.
Rank | Character(s) |
Emperor | N/A |
Shogun | N/A |
Taiko (Kampaku) | The Taikō, Yaechiyo |
Council of Regents | Yoshii Toranaga, Ishido Kazunari, Sugiyama, Kiyama ukon Sadanaga, Ohno Harunobu |
Daimyo | Kashigi Yabushige, Kashigi Omi |
Karo | Hiromatsu |
Samurai | Buntaro |
Ronin | N/A |
Emperor
Anna Sawai as Lady Mariko in Shogun - Emperor
In the first two episodes of Shōgun, the absence of the Emperor of Japan is notable. Historically, it would have been Emperor Go-Yōzei, the 107th Emperor of Japan, who held the position. He was the eldest son of Emperor Ōgimachi, the 106th Emperor whose reign concluded in 1586. Despite the Emperor being considered the most powerful individual in Japan, the true wielders of power in Shōgun were the Taikō and the Council of Regents following his passing. Emperors during the shogunate era served as symbolic figures of authority, much like the monarchs in present-day England and Japan.
Shōgun
Toranaga wearing battle gear turns to look forward in Shogun - Shōgun
Taiko (Kampaku):
During the late 12th century to the mid-19th century, the shōgun held the most influential position in Japan. The three significant shogunates that existed were Kamakura, Ashikaga, and Tokugawa. Unlike emperors and Taikos, shoguns were mainly focused on military matters and served as the supreme commander of Japan's armed forces. Appointed by the Emperor, shoguns were required to have a strong hereditary line to justify their prestigious status. Tokugawa, for example, traced his lineage directly back to the Minamoto clan, which greatly aided in the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate.
The Taiko on His Deathbed in FX Shogun - Taiko (Kampaku)
A taikō is technically a retired kampaku, the chief advisor to the Emperor. The Taikō depicted in Shōgun is based on Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who served as kampaku to Emperors Ōgimachi and Go-Yōzei, and also held the title of Chancellor of the Realm. In real life, the Taikō was known as one of Japan's great unifiers. Essentially, a taikō is synonymous with a retired kampaku, the most esteemed of all regents and the Emperor's most trusted advisor.
Council of Regents
Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga in Shogun with Lady Mariko by his side - Council of Regents
The Council of Regents in Shōgun is modeled after the Council of Five Elders appointed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi before his passing. These regents are influential feudal lords, or daimyos, essentially representing the Taikō and a kampaku divided into five parts who hold the same title. This unique council came into being due to the unexpected circumstances following the Taikō's demise, as his son Yaechiyo was not yet of age to succeed him. Throughout the early episodes of Shōgun, the Council of Regents play a pivotal role as the Emperor's most trusted advisors.
Daimyo
Closeup of Hiroto Kanai as Kashigi Omi in Shogun - Daimyo
Daimyos in Shōgun are feudal lords and landowners, like Lord Kashigi Yabushige and Kashigi Omi. They serve as vassals to the shogun and council of regents, leading warrior clans called samurai. Each daimyo holds a fief, a land estate granted in exchange for loyal service to their regent or shogun, adapting to Japan's political dynamics.
Karo
Hiromatsu and young samurai standing together in Shogun - Karo
A Karō is a prestigious rank for a samurai, often serving as a top-ranking official such as Hiromatsu in Shōgun. Karōs play a crucial role as advisors to the daimyōs of feudal Japan. Hiromatsu, a seasoned general, is known as Toranaga's right-hand man and closest ally, essentially serving as his second in command. Esteemed Karōs like Hiromatsu hold a more honorable position as advisors to regents and future shoguns.
John Blackthorne standing in front of Lord Toranaga in Shogun episode 2 - Samurai
Samurai, the working-class warriors in Shōgun, were regarded as a hereditary-based military nobility class. Throughout the Edo Period, they evolved into the highest-ranking social caste, renowned for their expertise in battle tactics and weaponry. This respected and established class of feudal Japanese warriors also exemplified a strong sense of honor. Notably, William Adams, the inspiration for John Blackthorne in Shōgun, even became a samurai himself.
Ronin
Toranaga on a horse. - Ronin
Ronin, skilled in armory and battle, are a class of samurai known for their mastery but lacking in ancestral integrity, making them dishonorable compared to traditional samurai. Typically, a samurai becomes a ronin upon the death of their master or lord, often embodying a disgraced drifter archetype. During the Tokugawa shogunate, the numbers of ronin increased, indicating their potential to become significant figures in future episodes of Shōgun.
Editor's P/S:
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the complex ranking system and hierarchy depicted in the FX/Hulu series "Shōgun." By drawing parallels to "Game of Thrones," it effectively highlights the power struggles and political machinations that drive the plot. The historical accuracy of the series, particularly in its portrayal of the Council of Regents and the role of daimyos, karo, samurai, and ronin, lends credibility to the narrative. The inclusion of images and a table summarizing the ranking order further enhances the reader's understanding of this intricate social structure.
Overall, the article effectively captures the essence of the feudal Japanese society depicted in "Shōgun." It provides valuable context for viewers who may be unfamiliar with the historical background and helps them appreciate the nuances and complexities of the show's plot. The article also serves as a useful resource for those interested in learning more about the ranking system and hierarchy that characterized feudal Japan.
