Secrets of the Samurai: The Martial Arts of Feudal Japan

Secrets of the Samurai is the definitive study of the martial arts of feudal Japan, explaining in detail the weapons, techniques, strategies, and principles of combat that made the Japanese warrior a formidable foe. The book begins with a panoramic survey of the tumultuous early struggles of warlords contending for political ascendancy then outlines the relentless progression of the military class toward absolute power. In addition to illustrating actual methods of combat, the authors discuss in detail the crucial training necessary to develop a warrior's inner power and to concentrate all his energies into a single force. Secrets of the Samurai is an essential text for anyone with interest in Japanese combat techniques, weaponry, or military history. This edition contains a foreword by Adele Westbrook and numerous illustrations by Oscar Ratti. Chapters include: The BushiThe HeiminThe Centers of Martial InstructionArmed BujutsuUnarmed BujutsuControl and PowerStrategic PrinciplesMorality of Bujutsu