A History of the Samurai

A History of the Samurai tells the complete story of Japan's legendary warrior class from beginning to end—an epic tale of intrigue, bloodshed, and bravery that is central to an understanding of the Japanese character and Japanese history.

It describes in detail the core Samurai philosophy of Bushido, 'the way of the warrior', a complex code of conduct embracing ideals of honour and loyalty that continues to govern the Japanese way of life today.

Historian Jonathan Lopez-Vera offers a compelling look at these enigmatic warriors, including:

• The lives of famous Samurai—Miyamoto Musashi, Japan's greatest swordsman, Tomoe Gozen, the woman who became a Samurai, Tokugawa Ieyasu, the last Shogun, and many more.
• The tragic tale of the 47 Ronin who chose honour over their own lives and were forced to commit ritual suicide after avenging their fallen master.
• The philosophy of Bushido, 'the Way of the Warrior,' the code of conduct that embraced the ideals of honour and loyalty and governed the Samurai way of living.
• The decline of the Samurai and their transformation from rough, battle-hardened warriors to highly educated philosopher-poets.

Illustrated with 125 archival prints and photos, the nobility and grandeur of the Samurai are brilliantly showcased in this book. Readers will enjoy immersing themselves in the Samurai's world, as historian Jonathan Lopez-Vera traces the fascinating story of the rise and fall of these enigmatic warriors throughout Japanese history.