An Illustrated Guide to Samurai History and Culture (From the Age of Musashi to Contemporary Pop Culture)

The ultimate visual guide to Samurai history and culture!

The Samurai are continuously celebrated as the greatest warriors the world has ever seen. They ruled Japan for centuries, finally uniting the nation after a prolonged period of brutal war and bloodshed. Though famed for their loyalty, honor, and chivalry, they could also be treacherous, bloodthirsty, and merciless.

This book tells the story of their rise and eventual demise through carefully curated images, both historical and contemporary, with an engaging and authoritative text by Gavin Blair--a noted commentator on all things Japanese. It exposes the myths surrounding the Samurai and reveals their many secrets, while examining their enduring influence on global culture in anime, manga, books, and video games.

Gorgeously illustrated with color prints, paintings, and photos throughout, this book features detailed chapters on:

• The rise of the Japanese warrior class and how they established their grip on political power
• Rival clans, legendary Samurai, the unification of warlord states, and famous female Samurai
• Samurai "tools of the trade"--swords, bows, spears, guns, castles, and armor
• The cult of Bushido, the fabled warrior's code
• The transformation of Samurai into cultured "gentlemen" warriors, poets, and aristocrats
• Their legacy in modern world literature, media, film, and popular culture
• And so much more!

A foreword by leading Samurai historian Alexander Bennett, the celebrated translator of works such as The Complete Musashi and Hagakure, introduces readers to these fascinating warriors, who continue to captivate modern audiences.

While major retailers like Amazon may carry An Illustrated Guide to Samurai History and Culture (From the Age of Musashi to Contemporary Pop Culture), we specialize in bulk book sales and offer personalized service from our friendly, book-smart team based in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to offer a Price Match Guarantee and a streamlined ordering experience from people who truly care.

We’re trusted by over 75,000 customers, many of whom return time and again. Want proof? Just check out our 25,000+ customer reviews—real feedback from people who love how we do business.

Prefer to talk to a real person? Our Book Specialists are here Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST and ready to help with your bulk order of An Illustrated Guide to Samurai History and Culture (From the Age of Musashi to Contemporary Pop Culture).