In episode 3 of “Shōgun,” Buntaro makes a brave sacrifice for Lord Yoshi Toranaga and his men, setting up a pivotal moment that viewers have been eagerly anticipating. As Lord Toranaga plans to leave Osaka after an assassination attempt on John Blackthorne, the group is caught in the act and forced to fight their way out. Sadly, Buntaro is left behind while defending the group from enemy soldiers, presumably meeting an honorable end in battle.
Buntaro’s Sacrifice: While Buntaro’s death is not explicitly shown on-screen, it’s implied that he goes down fighting to protect Lord Toranaga and his allies. Despite his controversial character and treatment of Lady Mariko, Buntaro’s sacrifice underscores the gravity of the situation and paves the way for further developments in the story.
Romantic Prospects: With Buntaro’s apparent death, Lady Mariko is left a widow, opening the door for a potential romance between her and John Blackthorne. Despite their cultural and religious differences, John and Lady Mariko share a strong chemistry and camaraderie, hinting at a deeper connection.
Building Chemistry: Over the course of the series, John and Lady Mariko’s interactions demonstrate a growing bond and mutual respect. Their ability to work together and support each other suggests that a romantic relationship may be on the horizon.
Adaptation from the Book: In James Clavell’s novel, John Blackthorne and Lady Mariko develop a clandestine relationship, and the FX adaptation of “Shōgun” is likely to follow a similar trajectory. Buntaro’s demise serves as a catalyst for their evolving dynamic and sets the stage for their romantic involvement.
FAQs
Are John Blackthorne and Lady Mariko romantically involved in the “Shōgun” book?
Yes, in James Clavell’s novel, John Blackthorne and Lady Mariko begin a secret relationship. The FX adaptation of “Shōgun” is expected to explore this aspect of their characters’ development.
How does Buntaro’s sacrifice impact the storyline of “Shōgun”?
Buntaro’s sacrifice marks a turning point in the story, allowing for the exploration of new relationships and character dynamics. His death creates space for Lady Mariko to move on from her unhappy marriage and potentially pursue a romance with John Blackthorne.
Will “Shōgun” follow the events of the book closely?
While adaptations often take creative liberties, “Shōgun” has remained relatively faithful to the events of James Clavell’s novel so far. It’s likely that the series will continue to draw inspiration from the book for future episodes.