Abstract This paper discusses and analyzes the topic of the Tokugawa period in Japanese history. Specifically, the paper examines life as a member of the craftsman class during this period and answers some questions regarding life and the culture of the time. The paper explains that the craftsmen of the Tokugawa period were certainly not the highest caste in Japanese society, but they enjoyed some respect, especially those who were skilled craftsmen, such as carpenters or blacksmiths.
From the Paper "My life as a craftsman in Japan during the Tokugawa period is difficult, but certainly much better than some of the other citizens of Japan during the time. We are seen as the third and forth levels of Japanese society, with the fourth level being the merchants, but we are often quite similar to the merchants, and some people might find it difficult to tell us apart in our lives and works. One reason for this is because many craftsmen, in order to ply their trades, actually begin working for merchant houses, rather than working for themselves, and so, the merchant and the craftsman often blend. However, I instead ply my trade for myself, I do not work for a merchant directly. I am a blacksmith, and I make fine, sharp swords. Much of my work goes to the castle of my feudal lord the "daimyo," but much also goes to the rich residents of my town, for my swords are popular and well made."
Abstract This paper examines Yamamoto Tsunetomo's "Hagakure" as a product of the Tokugawa period of Japanese history. The author examines how the "Hagakure" was considered somewhat cultish and antiquated at the time of its writing. He identifies how, as a primary source, it represents an outsider's view of the changes that were taking place in Japan. The author examines the night of the 47 ronin, the modern-day view that historians take of the document, and the initial reaction to the document. In conclusion the author states that "Hagakure" allows us a very close and involved look at the Tokugawa period, from a man who fought his whole life to come to a realization about how one should live in it.
From the Paper "Tsunetomoa's work is a spectacular window into the thoughts of a man living both a tumultuous life as well as a man living in an unpredictable socio-political climate. Through Hagakure, we are allowed insight into the world in which Tsunetomo lived. Hagakure invites the modern-day reader into a rich tapestry of ideas and philosophy, but it also serves as a reflection of the time in which it was written. Yamamoto Tsunetomoa's work illustrates many social, cultural, and political trends of the time period: it is one mans critical reflection upon several aspects of the Tokugawa period, and as such represents a valuable primary source of Japan in the early 18th century. Hagakure is most definitely a product of the time in which it was written."
