We have been discussing the role of female politicians in Japan recently. CNN has a fascinating - if superficial - article on the historical roles of female rulers of Japan. One quote:
Instead, the (Meiji) period saw a masculinization of the emperor and of Japanese society in general as the Meiji regime emphasized the perceived superiority of men over women. “In the Meiji constitution, the notion of ‘ie’ (house) was inscribed. That subordinated wives and household members under one patriarch. This wasn’t the case before,” says Tonomura, the historian.
In particular, the article’s reference to “western Japan” likely implies Kyushu; Daizaifu, in Fukuoka, was an ancient capital. I’ll bite into this later, but meanwhile, during GW, have a look at Mononokehime, and if any have info, please note. - William
