S5E2 - "Steady Scheming" (Shogun S1E2)

Summary In this episode, Carmen and Kimberly discuss the second episode of Shogun, titled 'Servants of Two Masters.' They talk about the opening of the show, the episode description, and their initial impressions. They delve into the favor the Taiko shows Torunaga and his honorable character. They also discuss Torunaga's potential as the next shogun and the fear he instills in other regents. They explore the themes of conversion to Christianity and the engaging storytelling and writing of the show. They analyze Ishido's scheming and Torunaga's strategic thinking. They highlight the translation and connection between Blackthorn and Torunaga and the test Torunaga poses to Blackthorn. Finally, they discuss Mariko's husband and Hiramatsu's intervention. In this episode, jealousy and political marriages come to the forefront as Lord Torunaga's plan unfolds. The Council of Regents and their leadership dynamics are explored, revealing the power struggles within the group. Ishido and Yabushige's relationship is examined, along with Blackthorn's secrets and the influence of the Portuguese. Mariko's faith is tested, and the Spanish and Portuguese treaty is revealed. The evolving relationship between Mariko and Blackthorn is also touched upon. The episode concludes with an assassination attempt and the theme of serving two masters. Takeaways The show's opening is stylized and immerses the viewer in the Japanese culture. Torunaga is an honorable and respected character, favored by the Taiko. Torunaga's potential as the next shogun and his lineage make him a target for other regents. The storytelling and writing of the show are engaging and keep the viewer hooked. The translation and connection between Blackthorn and Torunaga are pivotal in the episode. Jealousy and political marriages play a significant role in the story. The Council of Regents and their power struggles are explored. The influence of the Portuguese and the Spanish and Portuguese treaty are revealed. Mariko's faith is tested, and her relationship with Blackthorn evolves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Opening of the Show 00:57 Episode Description and Initial Impressions 04:31 Torunaga's Potential as the Next Shogun 06:24 Ochiba's Glance and Possible Rivalry 07:09 Conversion to Christianity 08:13 Torunaga's Advice to His Son 09:50 Engaging Storytelling and Writing 10:32 Torunaga's Lineage and Fear from Other Regents 11:01 Ishido's Scheming and Torunaga's Chess Game 13:23 Translation and Connection between Blackthorn and Torunaga 14:43 Torunaga's Test and Blackthorn's Response 16:37 Blackthorn's Imprisonment for His Protection 19:05 Jealousy and Political Marriages 20:08 Lord Torunaga's Plan 21:15 The Council of Regents 23:15 Leadership Dynamics 24:17 Ishido and Yabushige 25:32 Blackthorn's Secrets 27:12 Mariko's Faith 27:57 Portuguese Influence 29:12 Spanish and Portuguese Treaty 30:13 Mariko and Blackthorn's Relationship 33:24 Assassination Attempt 35:22 Servants of Two Masters #takethistv #televisionbookclub #podcast #newepisode #KimberlyWoods #CarmenAskerneese