Includes bibliographical references and index.

Preface; Acknowledgements; List of Figures; 1. Introduction; 2. A swordsman's perspective; 3. Background to Budo; 4. The Kashima tradition; 5. Book or dojo learning?; 6. Historical perspective; 7. A proper attitude towards Budo; 8. Respect and discipline in Budo; 9. Reflections on Kata; 10. The deeper influences on the Budo Tradition; 11. Gods, mountains and Yamabushi; 12. A very rude noviciate; 13. Tengu and the Bujutsu tradition; 14. The Mikkyo in action; Notes; Appendix I: Origins of classical swordmanship; Appendix II: Arts and ways classification; Glossary; Bibliography; Index.

In an environment where Budo has lost much of its original spirit in the inevitable process of changing attitudes towards sport, Roald Knutsen reappraises and reaffirms the profound and intrinsic importance of the underlying warrior culture and its real legacy. Technical knowledge rests entirely in the dojo; this book is intended to show those interested something of the roots that underpin the true Bujutsu and Budo, and to throw some light on the other complex influences from the past that have enriched so many of the surviving traditions. A number of these roots are purely warrior-based in nature, others are intellectual or even esoteric. If a student is only searching for technique, then this book will be of limited value. But for those inclined to look below the surface, there is much to commend it. Indeed, it will be widely welcomed by more serious Budo practitioners, as well as interested observers, who are looking for a return to 'first principles', concerned more about substance than style, and thereby gain valuable insight into the mind-set of Japan's unique warrior culture.

Description based on print version record.