The Tradition of Loyalty : The Ideal Relationship between Master and Man in Fujishi-kaden

Abstract

In Fujishi-kaden, Fujiwara-no-Nakamaro writes about what he thinks an ideal master-vassal relationship. In his definition, the ability to share grand vision is an important factor that works to reinforce ties between master and man. Among others the loyalty of Fujiwara-no-Kamatari to Nakano-Oeno-Oji, he says, is most exemplary, for it serves as a model for the general relationship between the Imperial Family and the Fujiwaras. In this way the tradition of loyalty, ranging from Kamatari through Muchimaro to the author himself, is invented precisely in order to prove the stability of the Fujiwaras.