Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai
Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai
Book Brief
Beta192
Book • Nonfiction
Japan • 18th Century
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai by Yamamoto Tsunetomo is a collection of insights and reflections on the bushido code, guiding a person living by samurai principles. It emphasizes loyalty, self-discipline, and the impermanence of life, offering a philosophical framework for ethical behavior and personal conduct within the samurai tradition.
Informative
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
17,189 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai by Yamamoto Tsunetomo is widely noted for its deep insights into the samurai code and philosophy. Reviewers appreciate its guidance on loyalty, discipline, and the transient nature of life. Some criticize it for being esoteric and antiquated, making it less accessible to modern readers. Overall, it remains a valuable resource for understanding samurai ethos.
Who Should Read Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai?
A reader intrigued by Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai appreciates historic codes of honor, samurai philosophy, and Japanese culture. They likely enjoy The Art of War by Sun Tzu for its strategic wisdom and Bushido: The Soul of Japan by Inazo Nitobe for its exploration of samurai ethics.
17,189 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai was written in the early 18th century and remained largely unknown until the 20th century, when it became popular as a source of insight into the mind-set and discipline of the samurai.
The book was originally intended to be a private document, a compilation of Yamamoto Tsunetomo's thoughts recorded by his disciple, Tashiro Tsuramoto.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
Despite being a guide on samurai philosophy, the book gained a new following in modern times after being referenced in various contemporary works of fiction and media.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
192
Book • Nonfiction
Japan • 18th Century
2002
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!