The samurai were the noble military class of ancient Japan. The samurai are believed to have existed from 10th century up until the Meiji reforms of the 19th century.
Although capable of brutal violence the samurai were also subject to a strict code of honour (Bushido), to the point of choosing ritual suicide by disembowelment in preference to disgrace. Bushido continues to influence modern Japanese society. Perhaps this explains why the samurai continue to inspire such fascination both within Japan and beyond. The samurai legend forms the basis of much great cinema. Continue reading »
