The Shogun series is one of the most captivating series i've watched over time. Yep, a series with many suspicions and many intrigues.
Yep, it's interesting that as we get closer to the end of the season, the tension builds. Mariko struggles with her own feelings for Blackthorne, Yabushige doubts her loyalty, and Toranaga sets in motion his ambitious plan to invade Osaka.
Shogun is not only the story of John Blackthorne or Lord Toranaga, but also of Mariko. Her perseverance and translation skills make her a vital figure, a bridge that unites the two men's worlds. Shogun subtly explores the role of women in a patriarchal, male-dominated society. Mariko, Ochiba and other female characters lucidly observe the events around them while the men struggle for power.
I love the series, it's really not boring - the series carefully explores the complexities of feudal Japanese politics, where tradition and etiquette play a crucial role. Therefore the series is not only based on spectacular fights and hidden plots.
Interestingly, every time a flashback takes us back into Mariko's life, a new layer of suffering is added to her disturbing story. In this episode, we learn that her desire to take her own life has haunted her for 14 years, persisting even during her pregnancy. But beyond the pain, we also see glimpses of her strength and intelligence—qualities that would later define her.
Episode 9 of Shogun is full of tension, betrayals and revelations. It gives us deeper insight into the main characters and sets us up for an explosive season finale. An unmissable episode for Shogun fans!