| At the
heart of Japanese culture is the Samurai code of Bushido. Its tenets are rigorous and
exacting: the warrior is courageous, loyal, honorable, self-controlled and courteous unto
death. Nowhere is this concept better expressed than in the classic Legend of the 47
Ronin. |
This
tale of 18th century Japan tells of 47 Samurai who avenge the treachery of Lord Kira that
forced ritual suicide, seppubu, on their noble Lord Asano, brought disgrace to the Asano
clan and left the Samurai without a master. Their dedication to Bushido, that ended with
their honorable death by Seppuku, made national heroes of these brave men. |
In the
three centuries since these dramatic events took place, the 47 Ronin have been celebrated
in drama, theatre, songs and stories. These are now the subject of a spectacular suite of
images by modern Japanese master Hisashi Otsuka. In this piece the pure essence of the
Spirit of Bushido is captured for all time. |
