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Seppuku: A History of Samurai Suicide

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( 81 ratings, 13 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Seppuku: A History of Samurai Suicide by Andrew Rankin delves into the historical and cultural significance of seppuku, the ritual suicide practiced by samurai in Japan. The author explores various historical examples and interpretations, examining its role in samurai culture and its lasting legacy in Japanese society. Through meticulous research, the book sheds light on the complex reasons behind this ritual.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might find this book fascinating if you're intrigued by the rich history and culture of the samurai and are interested in exploring the complex and ceremonial practice of ritual suicide. Delving into the historical roots and cultural significance, it offers a detailed examination of an aspect of samurai life that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Seppuku: A History of Samurai Suicide offers the first comprehensive history in English of Japanese ritual suicide, delivering both action-packed stories that read like fiction and invaluable scholarship. Now available in paperback, this book offers a meticulously researched insight into the tradition of seppuku, also known as hara-kiri outside Japan.

Author Andrew Rankin explores seppuku from ancient to modern times, presenting a selection of thrilling historical and literary samurai stories. The book delves into all facets of the ritual, including choosing and preparing the location, selecting a second, what to wear, shaving the head and bathing, the cutting technique, and different styles of seppuku.

Rankin has worked directly from original sources, such as medieval war tales, documents from samurai clans, and execution handbooks, providing a wealth of information never before available in English. This impeccably researched survey is essential reading for those interested in Japanese history and culture.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Seppuku: A History of Samurai Suicide by Andrew Rankin is described as a fascinating and well-researched book, providing an extensive investigation into its subject matter. It balances thorough citations with engaging prose, making it an excellent choice for readers interested in the topic or in Japanese history overall.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781568365862

Publisher: Kodansha America, Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 September 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: Kodansha America, Inc

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 185.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 256

About the Author

Andrew Rankin was educated at the universities of London, Tokyo, and Cambridge, and has lived in Japan for many years. His other books include Mishima, Aesthetic Terrorist- An Intellectual Portrait.

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