A unique treasury of writings spanning four hundred years on the ethos, training, and education of the Japanese warrior, compiled żeby the premier translator of Asian texts Honor, fearlessness, calm, decisive action, strategic thinking, and martial prowess have been the hallmarks of the Japanese samurai culture through the ages. The ethos of the samurai is known as "bushido, "or the way of the warrior-knight. Here is an insider's view of the samurai's moral and psychological development; the ethical standards they strive to uphold; their training in both martial arts and strategy; and the enormous role that the traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confu-cianism, and Taoism have had in influencing their noble ideals.