Following the introduction of Buddhism to Japan, thousands of monks were affiliated with a number of major monasteries between the 10th and 16th centuries. Almost inevitably, conflicts frequently arosewhether between the monasteries themselves, within their own ranks, or in their dealings with imperial authority. Against this backdrop, highly trained and armed groups of warrior monks emerged; they championed their monasteries' interests in fierce clashes using swords and spears, and later, firearms. In contrast, the tradition of the ninjaJapans covert operativeswas established between the 15th and 17th centuries. Stephen Turnbull, an expert on Japanese history, introduces readers in this richly illustrated book to the little-known world of religiously motivated warrior monks as well as the enigmatic ninjafigures whose combat methods and lives as mercenaries represented a radical break with Japanese traditions.
Group
Books (first-hand)
Author
Turnbull, S./Reynolds, W.
Title
Ninja und japanische Kampfmönche 950-1650
Details
Numerous illustrations, some in color. Sankt Augustin: Siegler Verlag, 2003. 128 pages.
