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Hagakure

The Secret Wisdom of the Samurai
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
Hagakure by Yamamoto Tsunetomo is a reflection on the samurai way of life, offering insights into the philosophy and conduct of the warrior class in Japan. It delves into the virtues of loyalty, discipline, and simplicity, while exploring the mindset required to embody the samurai spirit in everyday life. Rather than focusing on action or event descriptions, it provides a timeless guide to ethical behaviour and discipline.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3499
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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 enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the philosophy and discipline of the samurai, offering insights into the mindset and ethos of these legendary warriors. It's an intriguing read for those interested in historical perspectives on honour and duty that continue to inspire martial arts and modern sportsmanship.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The principal pillars of Bushido--the Samurai warrior's code--are loyalty, filial piety, bravery and mercy. Tsunetomo Yamamoto, the author of the Hagakure, Hagakure Hagakure published to date.

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

The principal pillars of Bushido—the Samurai warrior's code—are loyalty, filial piety, bravery and mercy. Tsunetomo Yamamoto, the author of Hagakure, lived his life based on these principles and was willing to sacrifice his own life for them when his liege and master died.

However, Shogunate law forbade Samurai retainers from taking their lives in this way, so Yamamoto became a monk instead—spending the last years of his life in seclusion, recording his wisdom and insights in Hagakure for the teaching and training of future Samurai warriors in the essence of Bushido.

Written nearly 300 years ago, Hagakure is one of the most influential of all Japanese texts. Its power has been felt throughout the world, and yet its existence is barely known to Westerners.

Alexander Bennett's completely new and highly readable translation of this essential work is the most complete version of Hagakure published to date.

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?

The translation and analysis by Alex Bennett highlights the famous text on samurai honour for Western readers. Reviewers praise its accessibility and scholarly depth, noting Bennett's profound understanding of Japanese bushido and martial arts. The book is recommended for both scholars and enthusiasts interested in samurai culture.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9784805311981

Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 27 May 2014

Country: United States

Imprint: Tuttle Publishing

Contributors:

  • Translated by Alexander Bennett

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 284g

Pages: 288

About the Author

Alexander Bennett holds doctorates from the University of Canterbury and Kyoto University. He has worked for the International Research Center for Japanese Studies and is currently Associate Professor at Kansai University's Department of International Affairs. He frequently lectures on Japanese martial culture and is Vice President of the International Naginata Federation and a committee member of the All Japan Kendo Federation, as well as director of the Japanese Academy of Budo. He is also the head coach of New Zealand Kendo. His recent publications include Naginata: the Definitive Guide, Budo Perspectives, The History and Spirit of Budo and The Bushido That Japanese Don't Know (in Japanese).

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