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The Rise and Fall of the Samurai

The History of Japan seen Through the Eyes of its Most Famous Warriors

Mayumi Nakagaki Ziggy Quinete Satoshi Watanabe

$125.95   $100.76

Hardback

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English
Gargoyle Collective
26 March 2025
In The Rise and Fall of the Samurai, Mayumi Nakagaki invites readers to explore the captivating world of Japan's legendary samurai. From their origins in the noble courts of ancient Japan and their emergence as a powerful warrior class to the height of their dominance during feudal times, this richly detailed book delves into the lives and philosophies of iconic figures such as Miyamoto Musashi, Date Masamune, and Saigō Takamori. Through a careful blend of history and mythology, readers will discover the true complexity behind the samurai's celebrated code of Bushido, their legendary battles, and the cultural traditions that defined their extraordinary way of life.

Beyond the famed warriors and historical battles, this book also explores the samurai's profound cultural legacy, encompassing literature, poetry, theater, and folklore that continues to shape modern Japan. Quinete vividly captures the transition from sword-wielding warriors to influential administrators, the dramatic events of their eventual decline, and their lasting impact on contemporary Japanese society. Rich with anecdotes and insights, The Rise and Fall of the Samurai presents a compelling portrait of bravery, honor, sacrifice, and resilience, providing readers with a deeper understanding of how the timeless spirit of the samurai endures, transcending history and continuing to inspire generations around the world.

The Rise and Fall of the Samurai: The History of Japan Seen Through the Eyes of Its Most Famous Warriors takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the epic world of Japan's legendary warrior elite. From their origins as skilled fighters in Japan's early imperial courts to their pinnacle of power during the feudal era. From their dramatic decline amid modernization, this book vividly chronicles the fascinating saga of samurai figures like Miyamoto Musashi, Date Masamune, and Saigō Takamori.

With stunning illustrations, delve into the samurai's revered code of honor and uncover the strategies, legendary weapons, supernatural myths, and profound cultural influences that shaped these iconic warriors. Rich with thrilling tales of battles, spiritual traditions, legendary swords, and captivating legends, this book paints an engaging portrait of how the samurai not only defined Japan's history but continue to influence its modern identity. Whether you're passionate about martial arts, captivated by history, fascinated by Japanese culture, or simply intrigued by stories of courage and honor.
By:   ,
Illustrated by:   Satoshi Watanabe
Imprint:   Gargoyle Collective
Dimensions:   Height: 279mm,  Width: 216mm,  Spine: 18mm
Weight:   998g
ISBN:   9786598616373
ISBN 10:   6598616379
Series:   Fantastical History
Pages:   220
Publication Date:  
Audience:   General/trade ,  ELT Advanced
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active

Mayumi Nakagaki is the creator behind Enchanted Tones Publishing Co., where she has orchestrated a global symphony of artists dedicated to the fusion of art and literature. Her literary oeuvre is a testament to her profound engagement with Asian culture and art, marking her as a conduit through which the beauty and complexity of Eastern traditions are made accessible to the world. ""Hana Kotoba, the Meaning of Flowers"" and ""Tokyo Ink - The Art of Irezumi Tattoos"" and The Rise and Fall of the Samurai are great examples of this fusion. A particular highlight of her career is a charming collection of Haikus for Children, brought to life with the enchanting illustrations by Satoshi Watanabe. Mayumi's work, deeply rooted in Zen Buddhist teachings from Japan, China, and South Korea, transcends geographical boundaries, resonating with audiences across North America and Europe. Her artistic and literary contributions are showcased not only in publications from Enchanted Tones but also in ""Art Movements of the 20th Century,"" a collaborative release by the Gargoyle Collective and Rampages Publishing. ""Mayumi Nakagaki's works are a bridge between worlds. Few authors have been capable of translating the East to the West with this level of beauty and artistry"", states Ziggy Quinete, creator of Gargoyle Collective and co-author of several of Mayumi's previous works. Ziggy Quinete is a writer and journalist. He is the creator of Gargoyle Collective, a consortium of artists dedicated to proliferating art and artistically inclined literature. Gargoyle Collective's artistic endeavors extend across various mediums, encompassing paintings, literary works, and avant-garde installations. In his latest work, The History of Witches, Ziggy created a book to better understand the origins of witches and witchcraft in the collective conscience. His other book, The History of Pin-Ups, took a similar approach. In Goth Culture, the author delves into the connection of medieval Gothic art and literature in the world of Goth fashion and lifestyle, starting in the early 1980s.In collaboration with Mayumi Nakagaki, his most recent projects include an expansive encyclopedia about Irezumi, the ancient art of Japanese Tattoos. Titled 'Tokyo Ink', this book explores the meaning of the imagery used in Body Art. This collaboration has also created a book about 'Hana Kotoba, ' the secret meaning of flowers. He has done similar work delving into the world of tattoos with 'The Meaning of Tattoos', where he explores the language of the most common tattoo themes in a photographic essay that spanned 4 continents. With an academic background rooted in critical thinking, Ziggy holds a degree in French Literature from the Sorbonne, Paris, and a post-graduation in Political Sciences. His multidisciplinary education armed him with a unique perspective on how political landscapes and societal structures intertwine with the realms of writing, art, and design.His works spark conversations on pertinent issues, evoke positive criticism, and ignite a collective drive towards a more conscientious future, challenging the readers to envision the world beyond its current limitations, delving into the hidden meaning of art and photography, and exploring new art frontiers. Satoshi Watanabe is an illustrator known for reproductions of ancient Japanese art, especially watercolors, ukiyo-e, and photography. His work is available in several galleries in Tokyo, NY, and London around the year.

Reviews for The Rise and Fall of the Samurai: The History of Japan seen Through the Eyes of its Most Famous Warriors

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐A Samurai Tale That's as Beautiful as It Is Gripping Ziggy Quinete and Mayumi Nakagaki have created something that's not just informative but downright captivating. It's like they took a history textbook, sprinkled in some myth and magic, and turned it into an epic saga. Satoshi Watanabe's artwork is breathtaking. Every page feels like a piece of art you'd want to frame. The way he captures the intensity of a samurai's gaze or the elegance of their armor adds so much depth to the storytelling. It's not just a book; it's an experience.. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐This Book Made History Cool Again This book is part history, part storytelling, and it totally worked for me. You get the rise of the samurai class, their wild battles, insane loyalty codes, and then their slow decline as Japan modernized. It reads like a mix between a history class and a badass samurai movie, which is exactly my vibe. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Love The Book! The Rise and Fall of the Samurai is an absolutely fascinating read for anyone interested in Japanese history or samurai culture. The way the book blends historical fact with a touch of the fantastical makes it feel like you're stepping into an epic tale while still learning about the real events and figures that shaped Japan. It strikes the perfect balance between storytelling and history.


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