Samurai: The Weapons And Spirit Of The Japanese Warrior

Samurai: The Weapons and Spirit of the Japanese Warrior

From BooklistThis is a lavishly illustrated introduction to the martial art and artistry of the samurai, the ancient Japanese military class that generated a unique culture-within-a-culture. While the visual emphasis is on the intricately designed weaponry and armor of the samurai, the fascinating text details the history and the philosophy of this elite group of warriors. As the samurai culture evolved, their arms became increasingly more elaborate and sophisticated. Individual chapters are devoted to examining the stylistic details and the practical employment of swords, polearms, bows and arrows, and guns through the centuries. Both browsers and scholars will appreciate this aesthetically and historically significant homage to the samurai tradition. Margaret FlanaganCopyright