The roles of every position is very crucial to the empire as everyone had their own responsibilities to conserve, protect and keep the empire.

 

The Emperor was looked up to by all of his people as the supreme ruler but held little political power and was seen as more of a 'puppet figure'.

The Shogun was probably the most important figure in the Medieval Japanese society. He was seen as 'second in line' but did the most work. He was a military leader, so he was in charge of many of decisions to do with their armies, battles etc.

The Daimyo was a very powerful figure who served the shogun. His job controls a large area of land. He was also in charge of their samurai, whom he paid to work and protect him. 

The Samurai served and protected their Daimyo with respect. They also fought for their people and protected them, bringing justice and order to the community. Their followed a code of conduct called Bushido, meaning 'Way of the warrior' which told them how to live their lives.

Ronins were samurai warriors who had either been 'expelled' from their allegiance or their daimyo had died.

Peasants were farmers and fishermen. They were actually considered a higher class in Medieval Japan because the Japanese believed that the peasants produced food, which was depended on by all classes, therefore, they worked harder. 

Artisans were workers skilled in a particular trade. These included: sword-maker, dressmaker, woodblock print making etc.