Library Guides: Shogunate Japan - Social Classes

Overview

• Period: 12th to 19th centuries
• System:
  • Japan had a four-tiered class system during the Shogunate period, based on the Confucian 'shi-ko-no-sho' structure.
  • Eight major societal positions, with subclasses outside the primary system.
  • Different from European feudalism; merchants were at the lowest tier.

Key Classes

1. Emperor

   • At the top of the social hierarchy but not directly involved in governance.

2. Samurai

   • Highest prestige among the feudal classes.
   • Role: Warrior class serving under the Shogun.

3. Shogun

   • Military ruler and de facto leader.
   • Controlled Japan’s governance and military.

4. Daimyo

   • Regional lords under the Shogun.
   • Governed land and maintained control over samurai.

5. Ronin

   • Samurai without a lord or master.

6. Peasants

   • Farmers and fishermen; held in higher regard than merchants for productivity.

7. Artisans

   • Craftspersons who produced goods.

8. Merchants

   • Lowest tier due to non-productive roles.

Social System Characteristics

• Feudal Obligations:

  • Lords provided land and protection.
  • Vassals offered military service.

• Stratification:

  • Clearly defined classes based on economic and political roles.
  • Allegiance was central, with classes pledging loyalty in exchange for benefits like food and protection.

Additional Roles

• Children:

  • Education and social play outlined their life.
  • Name changes possible depending on their evolving status.

• Outside the Class System:

  • Some societal roles were not included in the 'shi-ko-no-sho' system.

Further Reading and Resources

• The Four-Tiered Class System of Feudal Japan (ThoughtCo)
• Feudal System in Medieval Japan (World History Encyclopaedia)
• Life Under the Shoguns (National Library of Australia)
• Children in Feudal Japan (Legends and Chronicles)