It had been a form of entertainment associated with the country, but with Yoshimitsu's support it became associated with the upper class.[8] The Shōgun was highly attracted to Zeami, which proved controversial among aristocrats because of Zeami's lower-class background.[5] Yoshimitsu regularly invited Kanami and Zeami to the court, and Zeami accompanied him to events.[9] Due to his connection with the Shōgun, Zeami was provided with a classical education by court statesman and poet Nijo Yoshimoto.[10] Nijo was renowned for his skill as a Renga and taught Zeami about literature, poetry, and philosophy.