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Series
This three-volume edition presents Alexander Bennett’s unabridged English translation of Eiji Yoshikawa’s novel Musashi. Beginning in the aftermath of the Battle of Sekigahara, it follows Takezō’s transformation into Miyamoto Musashi, his duels and rivalries, his search for discipline and his eventual confrontation with Sasaki Kojirō.
Reading order
After fighting on the defeated side at Sekigahara in 1600, the reckless Takezō returns home as a hunted survivor. Captured and disciplined by the Zen monk Takuan Sōhō, he emerges under the name Miyamoto Musashi and begins a wandering search for mastery. Encounters with the Hōzōin…
Musashi’s reputation grows as he travels through early Tokugawa Japan, challenging established schools and drawing the surviving Yoshioka fighters into a campaign of revenge. His attachment to Otsū and responsibility for a young follower conflict with the solitary life he believes a swordsman must lead. At…
Musashi continues to refine his swordsmanship while questioning whether victory alone can give his life meaning. As old companions and enemies reappear, he turns increasingly towards meditation, teaching and disciplined self-reliance. His long parallel journey with Sasaki Kojirō culminates in their famous duel, forcing Musashi to…