Samurai Swordsman

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The Samurai Swordsman

Author : Stephen Turnbull
Publisher : Frontline Books
Page : 213 pages
File Size : 44,9 Mb
Release : 2008-02-20
Category : History
ISBN : 9781844157129

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The Samurai Swordsman by Stephen Turnbull Pdf

Samurai tells the story of the courageous and highly disciplined fighting men of this time, showing how they evolved from the primitive fighters of the seventh century into an invincible military caste with a fearsome reputation. In the early seventh century, the samurai rose to prominence during the struggles between the emperor and the military leaders (shogun). They took part in the invasion of Korea, as well as helping to keep Japan free from foreign influence. From the Heian period through to the Onin wars, the history of the samurai is replete with tales of heroism and bloodshed. Although the samurai is most famous for his use of the sword, he also used a wide variety of other weapons, such as the crossbow, the dagger and the spear. Samurai armour and costume were constantly evolving, and by the twelfth century most samurai were wearing the box-like yoroi armour. Samurai examines samurai fighting tactics, as well as acts such as ritual suicide (hari-kiri) and the taking of enemy heads as trophies.

Samurai Swordsman

Author : Stephen Turnbull
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 208 pages
File Size : 43,6 Mb
Release : 2012-07-03
Category : History
ISBN : 9781462908349

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Samurai Swordsman by Stephen Turnbull Pdf

Filled with dozens of woodblock prints and photographs, this Samurai history is an authoritative text on Japan's most fearsome warriors. Through fascinating stories and full-color historical images that show the samurai in mesmerizing detail, military historian Stephen Turnbull provides an invaluable guide to an enduring legacy. The earliest samurai warriors were actually aristocratic mounted archers, not swordsmen. Only as the archer gave way to the mounted spearman did swordsmanship come into play. Turnbull details how the history and the legacy of the samurai developed over centuries into a multifaceted, richly elaborate tapestry of martial and societal traditions. From the first recorded use of the word samurai in the eighth century to the final wars waged in resistance to the Meiji government in the late nineteenth century, this Japanese history book recounts the complex history of these warriors and demonstrates why the samurai continue to fascinate the world today.

Samurai Swordsmanship

Author : Masayuki Shimabukuro,Carl E. Long
Publisher : Black Belt Books
Page : 0 pages
File Size : 50,7 Mb
Release : 2011
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 0897501993

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Samurai Swordsmanship by Masayuki Shimabukuro,Carl E. Long Pdf

Demonstrates and explains the history, construction, sword etiquette, basic targeting and mat cutting using the Samurai sword.

Samurai Sword

Author : John M. Yumoto
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 229 pages
File Size : 44,9 Mb
Release : 2013-01-08
Category : Antiques & Collectibles
ISBN : 9781462907069

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Samurai Sword by John M. Yumoto Pdf

The samurai sword: a symbol of the spirit of old Japan, it embodies the samurai's steel discipline, unswerving devotion and peerless skill. With its creation, a feat of craftsmanship passed down by generations of artisans, the samurai sword is generally considered to be superior even to the famed blades of Western Damascus and Toledo. The Samurai Sword Handbook is a precise exploration of the samurai sword designed for sword collectors as well as anyone intrigued by these ancient blades. Detailing the origins and development of the samurai sword, its historical background, styles, famous schools and differences in construction, this revised edition of the classic reference outlines methods of identifying and researching the sword, as well as caring for it properly. This must-have for sword lovers is sure to be a bestseller. Topics of this Samurai book include: Japanese History and the Samurai Sword Types of swords Parts of the sword Blade shape, construction, and grain The making of the sword Inscriptions and their readings Care and maintenance Appraisal and value Relative point values

Mastering the Samurai Sword

Author : Cary Nemeroff
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 224 pages
File Size : 40,9 Mb
Release : 2014-09-02
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9781462916252

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Mastering the Samurai Sword by Cary Nemeroff Pdf

Memorialized in countless books and movies, the history of Japan's fearsome samurai warriors is known all over the world. Who can forget these Japanese masters' skills with the sword? Today, samurai warriors no longer exist, but their legacy of swordsmanship endures. Now, the way of the samurai sword is learned in the martial arts Iaijutsu and Kenjutsu. This book is the perfect introduction to using this beautiful and ancient weapon. In Mastering the Samurai Sword, you'll learn the sword's fascinating history, its evolution, and the philosophy behind its use. You'll also learn practical guidance for mastering the sword itself. Full-color, step-by-step photographs detail many of the most useful and famous samurai moves, including: drawing the samurai sword guard positions, cutting blows, and blocking falling and rolling techniques, and evasive strategies standing forms and kneeling forms All of the martial arts techniques discussed in the book are performed for readers in the downloadable material to help you perfect your form. Beginners will learn everything from proper attire and behavior in the dojo to how they might practice at home, while more experienced samurai swords people will find a new appreciation for the deeper meaning and tradition behind the graceful way of the sword.

Samurai Sword: Spirit * Strategy * Techniques

Author : Kohshyu Yoshida
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 176 pages
File Size : 53,5 Mb
Release : 2014-06-13
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9781462909902

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Samurai Sword: Spirit * Strategy * Techniques by Kohshyu Yoshida Pdf

The Samurai Sword is the essential illustrated guide to the Japanese way of the sword. Japan's famous samurai warriors were more than just soldiers — they were adherents to a strict code of honor who respected the deeper, spiritual meaning of the way of the sword. To the samurai, battle was sacred. This indispensable guide to theory and practice respects both the physical and spiritual aspects of martial arts practice with the katana. This sword book features: Beautiful, step-by-step photos and easy-to-understand text Guidance for selecting, maintaining, and using your sword Wisdom about the practical value of meditation Inspirational biographies of some of the greatest samurai swordsmen, men whose words and deeds embodied the true spirit of the samurai warrior Downloadable video Whether you're a beginner or an experienced swordsperson, this book will broaden your practical knowledge with detailed instruction on stances, cuts, guards, forms, and sparring techniques and strategy.

African Samurai

Author : Thomas Lockley,Geoffrey Girard
Publisher : Harlequin
Page : 518 pages
File Size : 40,8 Mb
Release : 2019-04-30
Category : Biography & Autobiography
ISBN : 9781488098758

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African Samurai by Thomas Lockley,Geoffrey Girard Pdf

This biography of the first foreign-born samurai and his journey from Africa to Japan is “a readable, compassionate account of an extraordinary life” (The Washington Post). When Yasuke arrived in Japan in the late 1500s, he had already traveled much of the known world. Kidnapped as a child, he had ended up a servant and bodyguard to the head of the Jesuits in Asia, with whom he traversed India and China learning multiple languages as he went. His arrival in Kyoto, however, literally caused a riot. Most Japanese people had never seen an African man before, and many of them saw him as the embodiment of the black-skinned Buddha. Among those who were drawn to his presence was Lord Nobunaga, head of the most powerful clan in Japan, who made Yasuke a samurai in his court. Soon, he was learning the traditions of Japan’s martial arts and ascending the upper echelons of Japanese society. In the four hundred years since, Yasuke has been known in Japan largely as a legendary, perhaps mythical figure. Now African Samurai presents the never-before-told biography of this unique figure of the sixteenth century, one whose travels between countries and cultures offers a new perspective on race in world history and a vivid portrait of life in medieval Japan. “Fast-paced, action-packed writing. . . . A new and important biography and an incredibly moving study of medieval Japan and solid perspective on its unification. Highly recommended.” —Library Journal (starred review) “Eminently readable. . . . a worthwhile and entertaining work.” —Publishers Weekly “A unique story of a unique man, and yet someone with whom we can all identify.” —Jack Weatherford, New York Times–bestselling author of Genghis Khan

Drawing the Samurai Sword

Author : Darrell Max Craig
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 305 pages
File Size : 41,5 Mb
Release : 2018-05-15
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9781462925148

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Drawing the Samurai Sword by Darrell Max Craig Pdf

To the Japanese, the sword is a spiritual weapon. It possesses a particular divinity, reflecting the soul of its maker, owner, and user. Around its mystical powers has grown the centuries-old ritual and practice of Samurai swordsmanship which is still avidly practiced today as is a fascinating and intricate martial art. This unique guide unlocks all the mysteries of the ancient tradition of Iaijutsu—explaining the history and significance of the sword in Samurai culture and documenting the techniques of swordsmanship as found in no other martial arts book. Darrell Max Craig is one of the foremost teachers of Kendo in the West. He spent many years in Japan competing and training at the very highest level. His book, Drawing the Samurai Sword, provides a thorough examination of all aspects of Iaijutsu—including information on sword care and selection, necessary gear, sword and dojo etiquette, and useful drills for practice and demonstration. This book also teaches readers about: How to evaluate your Samurai sword and handle it safely How to wear the traditional Hakama uniform How to perform the Kata forms to hone your technique The brutal history of sword testing, and today's more humane equivalent The classic and exciting story of "The Forty-Seven Ronin" And much more! Featuring a new preface by the author, original color photos and added information about sword testing, this generously-illustrated book is a treasure trove of information for aspiring students and experienced practitioners alike.

Secret of the Samurai Sword

Author : Phyllis A. Whitney
Publisher : Fawcett
Page : 206 pages
File Size : 48,8 Mb
Release : 1958
Category : Americans
ISBN : 0449703673

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Secret of the Samurai Sword by Phyllis A. Whitney Pdf

When Celia and her brother Stephen visit Japan, they discover a guest with a message from the past--the ghost of an ancient samurai soldier.

The Swordsman's Handbook

Author : William Scott Wilson
Publisher : Shambhala Publications
Page : 320 pages
File Size : 52,5 Mb
Release : 2014-04-29
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9780834829732

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The Swordsman's Handbook by William Scott Wilson Pdf

There is perhaps no more potent symbol of the samurai era than the sword. By the seventeenth century in Japan, the art of swordsmanship had begun to take on an almost cult-like popularity. Swordsmanship was more than a mastery of technique; it was a path toward self-mastery. The Swordsman’s Handbook is the definitive collection of writings by men who saw the study of swordsmanship not only as essential to life and death, but as something that transcended life and death as well. Their teaching, that dealing with conflict is an art that requires grace and courage, speaks to us today with surprising immediacy and relevance. Included in this collection are writings by Kotada Yahei Toshitada, Takuan Soho, Yagyu Munenori, Miyamoto Musashi, Matsura Seizan, Issai Chozanshi, and Yamaoka Tesshu.

Katana

Author : Stephen Turnbull
Publisher : Bloomsbury Publishing
Page : 82 pages
File Size : 53,9 Mb
Release : 2011-03-15
Category : History
ISBN : 9781849081528

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Katana by Stephen Turnbull Pdf

The Samurai sword of Japan is probably the finest edged weapon ever made. This volume by leading Samurai expert Stephen Turnbull reveals the story of how and why it achieved this distinction. Particular attention is paid to the development of the familiar curved blade from the original straight blades, the associated development of Japan's famous steel-making techniques and the challenges from contemporary warfare. Together with the technical details of forging, polishing, mounting and testing; this volume is brought to life with details of the great swordmakers themselves. Moreover, no history of the sword would be complete without a detailed examination of its use in combat, from the greatest Samurai armies to individual duels and revenge killings. Personal accounts allow the reader to discover the art of Japanese swordsmanship in the hands of masters such as Miyamoto Musashi to the unnamed Japanese warrior defending his family's honour. This lively text is perfectly complemented by artwork reconstructions of the sword in use and colour photographs of the swords in use.

Japanese Swords

Author : Colin M. Roach
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 176 pages
File Size : 52,9 Mb
Release : 2014-08-19
Category : Antiques & Collectibles
ISBN : 9781462915750

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Japanese Swords by Colin M. Roach Pdf

With over 300 stunning photographs and woodblock prints along with extensive historical and cultural commentary, Japanese Swords is the ultimate authority on Samurai weaponry. Historically, Japanese warriors considered their swords to be far greater than simple weaponry. Their swords were both lethal tools and divine companions — social and religious icons. Traditionally worn by the samurai as a sign of social status, the Japanese sword represented the junction between the reigning military class and those whom they ruled. Moreover, the samurai sword was a technological and artistic marvel. Many scholars consider it to be the finest sword ever constructed. In terms of symbolism and historical importance, no other blade comes close to the Japanese sword. With a historical, iconographical, and technological perspective, author Cohn M. Roach provides an in-depth study of these magnificent weapons in Japanese Swords. This richly illustrated sword book weaves the blade's primary influences together, tracking its history and illuminating its progress from infancy to grandeur. By studying the evolution of the Japanese sword from this perspective, we better understand Japan and its warrior archetype. Combining research materials from multiple disciplines, Roach uses his expertise as an educator to guide readers through the sword's rise to greatness in a unique way. This book discusses the history, development, and spiritual symbolism of the sword, as well as the esoteric metallurgical techniques used in making it. It also covers the difficult training practices used by skilled swordsmen. Japanese Swords also includes a companion DVD featuring a beautifully-filmed documentary that explores the traditional swordmaker's craft. The DVD also contains an introduction to the Japanese sword at a sword shop in Kyoto and a visit to a dojo for a beginner's class in the medieval sword-drawing art called iaido.

The Lone Samurai

Author : William Scott Wilson
Publisher : Shambhala Publications
Page : 305 pages
File Size : 44,6 Mb
Release : 2013-03-12
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9781590309872

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The Lone Samurai by William Scott Wilson Pdf

An expert on samurai history paints a vivid, multi-faceted portrait of feudal Japan and Miyamoto Musashi—the legendary swordsman who wrote the classic martial arts treatise, The Book of Five Rings Born in 1584, Miyamoto Musashi was the legendary samurai known throughout the world as a master swordsman, spiritual seeker, and author of the classic book on strategy, The Book of Five Rings. Over 350 years after his death, Musashi and his legacy still fascinate readers worldwide, inspiring artists, authors, and filmmakers. In The Lone Samurai, respected translator and expert on samurai culture William Scott Wilson presents both a vivid account of a fascinating period in feudal Japan and a portrait of the courageous, iconoclastic samurai who wrestled with philosophical and spiritual ideas that are as relevant today as they were in his time. For Musashi, the way of the martial arts was about mastery of the mind rather than simply technical prowess—and it is this path to mastery that is the core teaching in his Book of Five Rings. This special volume includes supplemental material on Musashi’s legacy as a martial arts icon, his impact on literature and film, and the influence of his Book of Five Rings.

Forza The Samurai Sword Workout

Author : Ilaria Montagnani
Publisher : Simon and Schuster
Page : 100 pages
File Size : 50,5 Mb
Release : 2005-06-28
Category : Health & Fitness
ISBN : 9781569757536

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Forza The Samurai Sword Workout by Ilaria Montagnani Pdf

“Meet the Lara Croft of Manhattan” --The New York Post STRIKE, THRUST, CUT . . . YOUR WAY INTO GREAT SHAPE Feel the power and exhilaration of a Samurai sword workout with Forza, the full body exercise program based on Japanese sword fighting techniques. Build muscle and burn fat with this fantastic cardio workout that strings together controlled sword movements in to movie-like, choreographed combinations performed at high speed.

The Samurai Swordsman

Author : Stephen Turnbull
Publisher : Tuttle Publishing
Page : 208 pages
File Size : 43,6 Mb
Release : 2008-04-15
Category : History
ISBN : 4805309563

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The Samurai Swordsman by Stephen Turnbull Pdf

This Samurai history, filled with dozens of woodblock prints and photographs, is an authoritative text on Japan's most fearsome warriors. Through fascinating stories and full-color historical images that show the samurai in mesmerizing detail, military historian Stephen Turnbull provides an invaluable guide to an enduring legacy. The earliest samurai warriors were actually aristocratic mounted archers, not swordsmen. Only as the archer gave way to the mounted spearman did swordsmanship come into play. Turnbull details how the history and the legacy of the samurai developed over centuries into a multifaceted, richly elaborate tapestry of martial and societal traditions. From the first recorded use of the word samurai in the eighth century to the final wars waged in resistance to the Meiji government in the late nineteenth century, this Japanese history book recounts the complex history of these warriors and demonstrates why the samurai continue to fascinate the world today.