Diffusion 4:�Japan’s Unique Culture
The upper class formed their own culture around the idea of elegance. Writing was their main interest.
The Tale of Genji – world’s first novel, written around 1000 AD by Lady Murasaki.
Haiku
Always has 3 lines
Syllables: five, seven, five
Deep meaning, few words.
Government
Feudal Japan
Instead of rule by an emperor Japan became ruled by feudal warlords in a system based on honor.
Feudal Structure
Peasants
Samurai
Daimyo
Shogun
Shogun = leader
Daimyo = landowners
Samurai = protectors
Peasants = workers
Samurai Culture
Turned to Zen Buddhism to focus their minds for battle (and death.)
Followed Bushido – a code requiring honor and loyalty.
Required a fair, one on one, face to face battle.
Weapons�and�Armor
The Katana
Japanese-made sword. One of the best hand to hand weapons ever made.
“The sword is the soul of the warrior. If any forget or lose it he will not be excused."
Tokugawa Ieyasu
Brain
Snack
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Forced Associations
Explain how these two things might be related (even if they seem like they aren’t!)
Samurai
Mailman