Through this masterful translation of original samurai tales, laws, dicta, reports, and arguments, accompanied by insightful commentary, Hiraoki Sato chronicles the changing ethos of the Japanese warrior from the samurai s historical origins to his rise to political power. For this purpose, Sato has chosen to translate, wherever possible, writings closest in time to the events recounted. His flowing and seemingly effortless translations are a testament to his mastery of both English and Japanese and are filled with lively detail and dramatic storytelling. Legends of the Samurai covers legends from mythological times to the early eighteenth century. Through the book Sato describes men accomplished in martial arts, warrior-commanders in battle, and samurais own views of themselves. If you are interested in Japanese culture and the martial arts, or simply enjoy tales of heroism and honor, The Legends of the Samurai deserves a prominent place on your bookshelf.