In Shōgun Season 1, Episode 4, titled “The Eightfold Fence,” the Hulu historical drama ramps up the stakes with an intensity that encompasses violence, looming conflict, and complex romantic dynamics. As one of the standout series on Hulu in 2024, this episode masterfully blends emotion and adventure, delving into pivotal themes encapsulated by the concept of the “Eightfold Fence.”The impending war seems to ignite at any moment, marking this episode as both a visual and emotional high point.
Since arriving in Japan, John Blackthorne (played by Cosmo Jarvis) has forged a crucial alliance with the formidable Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada). As he grows closer to Mariko (Anna Sawai), she clings to the hope that her husband may still be alive, despite the tragic circumstances of the previous episode. Their relationship reveals itself more as a union of obligation than of passion, vividly contrasting the romantic themes that permeate “The Eightfold Fence.”
Blackthorne’s Rise in Ajiro
Toranaga Elevates Blackthorne to Hatamoto
During his stay in Ajiro, Toranaga bestows upon Blackthorne the prestigious title of “Hatamoto.”This honor brings with it wealth, a grand residence, and even a consort named Fuji (Moeka Hoshi), whose presence Blackthorne initially finds irksome before realizing her potential as an ally. Importantly, with this title comes the implicit understanding that he is now bound to serve Toranaga, challenging him to prove his value in the midst of brewing conflict.
Blackthorne strives to train Toranaga’s newly formed battalion of riflemen. However, lacking knowledge of ground combat tactics, he relies on his expertise in naval warfare. His unconventional training methods astound Yabushige (Tadanobu Asano) and the soldiers, culminating in an impressive display of artillery skills that even brings a smile to Mariko’s face. As Blackthorne immerses himself in Japanese culture, he earns back the firearms he had previously abandoned on the ship, Erasmus, and begins to forge a true connection to his new environment.
In a significant gesture, he gifts one of his pistols to Fuji, who reciprocates by presenting him with swords that belonged to her father, symbolizing his acceptance into the fabric of Samurai traditions. This exchange deepens Blackthorne’s bond with Japan, steering his motivations beyond mere commercial pursuits toward a more profound engagement with the culture surrounding him.
Mariko and Blackthorne’s Connection Deepens
Understanding the Eightfold Fence
As Blackthorne continues his training, Mariko observes him closely and begins to educate him on Japanese customs. She introduces him to the concept of the “Eightfold Fence,”a metaphor illustrating how individuals compartmentalize their emotions and experiences. She explains that Japanese culture educates its children from an early age to conceal their true feelings, crafting a protective layer around their hopes, fears, and uncertainties.
This revelation prompts Blackthorne to reflect on his own interactions and deepen his understanding of the people around him. Rather than judge others based on superficial impressions, he recognizes that everyone harbors untold stories hidden behind their own fences. A pivotal moment occurs when Blackthorne shares a romantic vision of a date he would take Mariko on if they were in London, which compels her to visit him later that night. Although she claims a courtesan was sent in her stead to cover their tryst, this act also serves to illustrate her conflicted emotions regarding their connection.
Yabushige’s Dilemma
A Call From the Regents
While Blackthorne develops his rapport with Mariko, Yabushige finds himself in a precarious position, torn between loyalty to Toranaga and allegiance to Ishido (Takehiro Hira) and the other regents. When Ishido’s envoy, Nebara Jozen (Nobuya Shimamoto), summons him, Yabushige realizes he faces a dire ultimatum: submit to the regent’s demands or face execution as a traitor. In a clever move, he invites Jozen to stay the night and witness a demonstration of cannon fire, hoping to use the display to reaffirm his value as an ally.
Yabushige’s internal conflict is heightened by his relationship with Jozen, reflecting on their past friendship. His youthful nephew, Omi (Hiroto Kanai), devises a plan that could cement his family’s legacy while simultaneously appealing to Toranaga. Omi’s ambitions serve as a catalyst for unfolding events, hinting at the impending chaos.
Nagakado’s Impulsive Move
The War Erupts with Jozen’s Demise
As preparations for the cannon demonstration commence, tensions mount. Nagakado seizes the opportunity to publicly denounce Jozen and the intrusion of his forces, declaring that they have dishonored his family. He demands retribution, directing the soldiers to unleash a barrage of cannon fire upon Jozen’s contingent, resulting in a shocking and gruesome slaughter that marks a decisive turning point in the series. This harrowing scene underscores the shift from reserved conflict to unmistakable bloodshed, setting the tone for the future of the narrative.
As Jozen’s last curses are uttered and his entourage falls victim to the violence, Mariko poignantly observes, “It is war,” articulating the haunting escalation of the conflict that will define the remainder of the series.
Anna Sawai’s Reflections on Mariko in Episode 4
Sawai Describes the “Eightfold Fence”as “Poetic”
In Episode 4, “The Eightfold Fence,”Anna Sawai’s portrayal of Mariko is particularly significant. In discussing her character’s journey, Sawai emphasizes the emotional complexity surrounding the intimate moments shared with Blackthorne. As noted in an interview (via Decider), she remarked:
“I think that obviously having her husband Buntaro die played a big part in her being like, ‘Okay, well, you know, this isn’t completely wrong,’ even though he is a Protestant and even though he is married and has kids.”
Mariko’s uncertainty regarding her husband’s fate creates a tension that allows her to lower her emotional guard around Blackthorne. Reflecting on the “Eightfold Fence,”Sawai elucidates:
“The eightfold fence is, I think, a way to protect yourself when you’re in a situation where you just don’t feel accepted, or you feel that you need to just get away. The eightfold fence is what you build within your head to just bring yourself into a peaceful place. I think that’s something that I do, but when you put it into words as an eightfold fence, I think that’s very poetic and beautiful.”
Mariko’s emotional barriers are emblematic of a universal human experience, suggesting that everyone has their own “Eightfold Fence.”As Blackthorne recognizes this complexity, he forges a deeper understanding of her character. Their evolving romantic relationship in Shōgun Episode 4 feels authentic and significant, propelling forward the overarching narrative of the season.