Rise of the Warrior Class in Japan Flashcards

Questions and Answers

How did the Japanese government change after Minamoto Yoritomo came to power in 1185?

The government changed when the warrior class began to run the country.

What was the main job of the shogun?

Run the military.

A daimyo in medieval Japan was most like which person in medieval Europe?

Lord.

What happened in Japan between 1500 and 1600 CE?

Daimyos fought each other for land and power. Signup and view all the answers

What was a benefit of the samurai style of armor?

It allowed freedom of movement. Signup and view all the answers

Someone who was preparing for battle against the samurai would benefit most by finding a way to defend himself or herself against ____________________.

arrows. Signup and view all the answers

How are martial arts like Judo and Karate different from other ways the samurai were taught to fight?

They do not require weapons. Signup and view all the answers

What principles would a teacher of samurai most likely emphasize?

Always be alert and prepared. Signup and view all the answers

Which tool would a student of calligraphy use most?

Brush. Signup and view all the answers

Complete the haiku: 'The waterfall shines, sparkling in golden sunlight,'

'Hear the water laugh.' Signup and view all the answers

How should a guest behave at a tea ceremony?

Follow and observe each step precisely. Signup and view all the answers

Zen Buddhism suited the samurai way of life because of its emphasis on

discipline. Signup and view all the answers

What mattered most to a samurai who was following the Code of Bushido?

Loyalty and honor. Signup and view all the answers

Why might life for a Japanese woman have been better in the 12th century than in the 17th century?

Their status declined. Signup and view all the answers

How did the samurai of Japan differ from European knights in the Middle Ages?

They had to be able to read and write. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best example of samurai influence on modern Japan?

The Kamikaze Pilots of WWII. Signup and view all the answers

By the example of walking in the rain, Yamamoto is saying that

even if you face a challenge, keep moving forward. Signup and view all the answers

Yamamoto argues that parents should not tease or frighten a child because

if a child is teased or frightened, it stays with them for life. Signup and view all the answers

By 'The more water, the higher the boat', Yamamoto means that a samurai should

accept challenges; the bigger, the better because it will bring more honor. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Rise of the Warrior Class in Japan

Minamoto Yoritomo established a new government in 1185, marking the rise of the warrior class in political leadership.
The shogun's primary responsibility was to oversee military operations.

Samurai and Daimyo

A daimyo in medieval Japan was comparable to a lord in medieval Europe, holding significant land and power.
Between 1500 and 1600 CE, civil warfare among daimyos was prevalent as they vied for territory and influence.

Samurai Warfare and Training

Samurai armor provided enhanced mobility, allowing warriors to maneuver effectively in battle.
Defending against arrows was crucial for anyone preparing to confront samurai in combat.
Martial arts like Judo and Karate distinguished themselves by focusing on unarmed combat, without the use of weapons.
Samurai training emphasized core principles like vigilance and readiness.

Cultural Practices

Calligraphy students primarily used brushes to create their art.
A haiku is completed with evocative imagery, such as "Hear the water laugh" to enhance its emotional depth.

Tea Ceremony Etiquette

During a tea ceremony, guests are expected to meticulously follow each step, reflecting respect and adherence to tradition.

Zen Buddhism and the Code of Bushido

Zen Buddhism resonated with the samurai lifestyle due to its focus on mental discipline and mindfulness.
Loyalty and honor were paramount for samurai adhering to the Code of Bushido, guiding their actions and decisions.

Status of Women

In Japan, the status of women experienced decline from the 12th to the 17th century, affecting their roles in society.

Samurai vs. Knights

Unlike European knights, samurai were also educated literate individuals, with reading and writing being essential to their identity.

Modern Influence of Samurai

The influence of samurai culture extends into modern times, exemplified by the Kamikaze Pilots of WWII, reflecting their spirit of sacrifice and valor.

Philosophical Insights

Yamamoto advocated resilience in the face of challenges, illustrated by the metaphor of walking in the rain, encouraging perseverance.
He cautioned against teasing or frightening children, emphasizing the lasting psychological effects such actions can have.
The saying "The more water, the higher the boat" illustrates the philosophy that greater challenges can lead to greater honor for a samurai.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the significant changes in the Japanese government and military structure following the rise of the warrior class under Minamoto Yoritomo in 1185. This set of flashcards covers key roles, figures, and comparisons with medieval Europe, providing a comprehensive overview of this transformative period in Japanese history.