Women's status and role in Japanese society did not change significantly as a result of the spread of Confucianism. Confucian teachings reinforced traditional gender roles and placed a heavy emphasis on filial piety, which emphasized obedience to male authority figures such as fathers and husbands. Women were expected to prioritize their roles as mothers and obedient wives, and their opportunities for education and social participation were limited. While there were some exceptional women who engaged in scholarly pursuits or became poets, these cases were rare and did not represent a widespread shift in women's social status.
