Hagakure (9784805311981)

This comprehensive and authoritative edition of the Hagakure is an essential resource for readers interested in samurai history, bushido philosophy, Japanese culture and martial arts.

Written over 300 years ago by Yamamoto Tsunetomo, the Hagakure remains one of the most influential works on the ideals, values and mindset associated with the samurai way of life. Its influence has been felt throughout the world, and yet its existence is scarcely known to many Westerners. This edition includes the complete first two books of the Hagakure along with the most reliable and historically significant passages from the third book, making it one of the most comprehensive English-language editions available.

Alex Bennett's wholly new and highly readable translation of this essential work includes extensive footnotes that serve to fill in many cultural and historical gaps in the previous translations. Combining scholarly rigor with an accessible modern translation, this edition makes one of Japan's most important samurai texts available to contemporary readers.


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).