Alex Bennett has two doctoral degrees in Japanese literature and history from Kyoto University and the University of Canterbury (NZ). He is a professor in Japanese history, martial arts and Budo theory at Kansai University. He is Vice President of the International Naginata Federation, International Committee Member of the All Japan Kendo Federation, Director of the Japanese Academy of Budo, and he is Head Coach of the NZ Kendo national team. He co-founded and publishes Kendo World, the first English-language journal dedicated to Kendo. He holds black belts in several martial arts--Kendo Kyoshi 7-dan, Iaido 5-dan and Naginata 5-dan. His published works include Japan: The Ultimate Samurai Guide and Hagakure: The Secret Wisdom of the Samurai.
"The classic text on the code of the warrior by legendary samurai
Musashi (1584-1645) has been newly and artfully translated by
Bennett…In an informative introduction, Bennett takes great care to
separate the myths from the known facts of Musashi's life, while
covering Japanese history and Musashi's daring exploits…Bennett
also addresses the samurai's lasting influence…Extensive footnotes
offer illumination on topics ranging from the fragility of weapons
in combat to the shades of meaning in ideograms. Color
illustrations enhance this superb new edition of a classic, an
evident labor of love." -- Publishers Weekly
"Dr. Bennett possesses a profound knowledge of, and deep insight
into, the world of Japanese bushido. This expertise has been
enhanced by his extensive practical experience of the traditional
martial arts of Japan, and his proficiency in this domain is highly
acclaimed." -- Tetsuo Yamaori, former Director of the International
Research Center for Japanese Studies
"This is a very good edition of this important document, made more
valuable by the lengthy introduction and the inclusion of all six
of the works currently attributed to Miyamoto Musashi, which allow
us to see how his views developed, and places the famous Book of
Five Rings into the context of his life." -- History of War blog
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