TED-Ed: The true story behind the legend of the 47 Rōnin | Adam Clulow

In 1701, Asano Naganori attacked Kira Yoshinaka in Edo, leading to Asano's forced seppuku and the dispossession of his samurai. The Tokugawa government aimed to control the samurai class, but Asano's actions left his retainers as ronin. Despite differing opinions, 47 ronin, led by Oishi Yoshio, avenged Asano by killing Kira. Their actions posed a dilemma for the Tokugawa, who allowed them to commit seppuku, preserving their honor. The incident became legendary, sparking debates on loyalty and law, and influencing Japanese culture for centuries.

What were the differing opinions among Asano's samurai regarding their response to Kira?

What ultimately happened to the ronin after they avenged Asano's death?

How has the story of Asano and Kira been interpreted over the centuries?