The gSANGAKUh which was introduced from China and the gDENGAKUh from ancient Japan merged, and was recognized as gENGAKUh between the Namboku-cho and early Muromachi-era (from the end of the14th century until beginning of the 15th century). From there gNohh was recognized, and was established as drama performance for the first time. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu discovered talent in KANAMI and ZEAMI, singled them out, and eKabukif was established. From then it developed targeting KUGE (court noble) and BUKE (samurai class) people known as performing arts. By the Edo-era, Noh became internalized in the BAKUHANTAISEI as a SHIKIGAKU to the samurai class, and Noh actors/actresses became acknowledged as a status. Then it was divided into five rates; SHITEKATA, WAKIKATA, HAYASHIKATA, KYOUGENKATA, and BUNGYOUSEI as they are known today. The form of Noh, which is performed today, was nearly completed by the mid-Edo-era.
