In the video series Shōgun, one entire episode is devoted to The Eightfold Fence. But the concept is essential to understanding the transformation of the protagonist, John Blackthorne, as he becomes acculturated to living in Japan.
When author James Clavell wrote Shōgun in 1975, Eastern mysticism and Buddhism were not familiar subjects for a Western audience. Alan Watts, a reformed Anglican, began popularizing Buddhism in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s and was dubbed the “philosophical entertainer.” But his audience was small.
Clavell was a successful novelist when Shōgun followed King Rat and Tai-Pan with his cliff-hanging storytelling. He developed a wide audience outside religious thinkers and philosophers. He introduced a positive picture of Asian culture. By the time Shōgun was published, his wide following was open to understanding Eastern philosophy.
Clavell’s concept of the Eightfold Fence was based on the Buddhist concept of the Eightfold Way. It was his effort to dramatize a basic Eastern philosophical idea.
What Is Shōgun’s Eightfold Fence?
We don’t normally think about philosophy when we’re watching an action-packed TV series. Like Shōgun. Understanding the Buddhist principles of The Eightfold Way, sometimes called The Eightfold Path, makes the concept more accessible. It’s the basis for Clavell’s Eightfold Fence.
At its core, The Eightfold Way is a practice that preserves personal integrity while mitigating whatever outside forces assail our sense of self. This is what the character Mariko explains in The Eightfold Fence to John Blackthorne.
By building a “fence” against antagonistic or dangerous forces, we shield against them by maintaining a balance within. In modern parlance, this is often called “centering” or “staying balanced.” By following the practice, we won’t get knocked “off-center” when unexpected or threatening events happen. We maintain the internal balance.
Shōgun’s Eight Steps Along the Eightfold Way
https://www.worldhistory.org/image/6471/dharma-wheel/
At first, keeping all eight steps in mind can seem overwhelming, as the concept does to John Blackthorne. By knowing what they are, you’ll understand how they all work together. Although they are called steps, there are no first or last, practice them all.
Right View: Everything is related and interconnected. And, nothing lasts, even our emotions. We suffer when we become attached to things. Our actions, including words and thoughts, have consequences. This step helps us develop a realistic view and compassionate understanding of others.
Right Thought – Fostering intentions that align with the principles of no harm and compassion. It is the base of ethical conduct because it guides our actions, making them beneficial for ourselves and others. Reflect before action. Be generous toward others. You cultivate a more positive world.
Right Speech – Use speech to be kind, truthful, and beneficial. Avoid lying and slander. On the other side, right speech is respectful and compassionate. Using right speech creates understanding in relationships. It prevents conflict. Practicing right speech fosters a peaceful and positive environment.
Right Conduct – Practice ethical conduct to cultivate harmony and foster kindness and compassion. Make sure your actions do not harm others in words, deeds, or thoughts. Speak honestly. Do not steal. Practice responsible sexual behavior. Engage in actions that are beneficial to others and ourselves. Right conduct creates harmony, fostering a peaceful world.
Right Livelihood – Do work that does not harm others or the world around you. Choose work that is meaningful and fulfilling. Follow ethical business practices. You’ll benefit others and find personal fulfillment. Following this “step,” you create a just world and well-being for everyone.
Right Effort – Consciously direct your effort to create positive behavior and thinking. At the same time let go of negative actions and thoughts. Examples are generosity, patience, and discipline. And, let go of anger, hatred, greed, and ignorance. Align your actions with your values. Be mindful of your intentions and choose beneficial activities.
Right Mindfulness – Stay in the moment. Avoid thinking of the past or the future. Be non-judgmental of your feelings. Note them but don’t judge. Accept your inner experiences without attachment. Be compassionate with your inner world of thoughts and feelings. Do not try to change or control them. You will be present in your daily life moment by moment.
Right Meditation – Stay in the present moment. Accept your inner experiences. Incorporate the other seven “steps,” being compassionate with yourself and others. At the core, develop a loving heart.
These are very brief introductions to the profound way of being with the “Eightfold Fence.” It’s a way of understanding philosophy combined with entertainment.
James Clavell sprinkles the Shōgun novel with these principles. When you watch the show, you will notice characters practicing the “Eightfold Fence” without mentioning it. That’s why this episode when Mariko explains how to create and protect the inner world is important to understand the entire series. “We live and we die, we control nothing beyond that.”
About The Author
Zara Altair is a writer and author of historical mysteries set in 6th Century Italy. She is passionate about books, film, film history, and sharing her knowledge with others. Engage with Zara, her educational insights, and her tips for fellow writers by following her on X(Twitter) and Threads. Zara is a seasoned journalist and accomplished writer with deep expertise spanning entertainment, literature, film writing, neuroscience, and health. Zara blends critical analysis with a profound passion for storytelling.