Japanese Warrior Monks AD 949–1603

Japanese Warrior Monks AD 949–1603 cover

Description

From the 10th to the mid-17th century, religious organisations played an important part in the social, political and military life in Japan. Known as sohei ('monk warriors') or yamabushi ('mountain warriors'), the warrior monks were anything but peaceful and meditative, and were a formidable enemy, armed with their distinctive, long-bladed naginata. The fortified cathedrals of the Ikko-ikki rivalled Samurai castles, and withstood long sieges. This title follows the daily life, training, motivation and combat experiences of the warrior monks from their first mention in AD 949 through to their suppression by the Shogunate in the years following the Sengoku-jidai period.

Table of Contents

Introduction · Chronology · Religious recruitment · Monk training · Appearance and equipment · Everyday life in the monastery · The warrior monk in battle · Colour plate commentary · Museums · Re-enactment · Index

Product details

Published May 20 2003
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 64
ISBN 9781841765730
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 20 b/w; 48 col
Dimensions 10 x 7 inches
Series Warrior
Short code WAR 70
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Stephen Turnbull

Stephen Turnbull is widely recognised as the world…

Illustrator

Wayne Reynolds

WAYNE REYNOLDS was born in Leeds, UK, and attended…

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