HIST 208The Samurai

The invincible swordsman, the ultimate warrior: popular imagery portrays the samurai and their code of honour (Bushido) as the "soul" of Japan. But who were they, and were they really better than purveyors of violence? We will study the history of Japan and of the samurai; and we will also explore how the samurai have endured as a pop culture icon. Texts, films, and visual materials will inform our analysis, and critical discussion will be crucial to separate the real history from the popular myths. Learning activities may include active discussion of readings and films, and written assignments.