The Shogun's Scroll. Stephen F. Kaufman

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      Introduction

      This is a work of docu-fiction. As an author, and based on my personal investigations into the teachings of Miyamo- to Musashi’s Book of Five Rings and Sun Tzu’s Art of War, I have crafted an ancient text written as a historical document that illustrates the workings of the medieval mindset of conquest attributed to Minamoto Yoritomo, the first shogun of Japan, who is considered one of history’s most ruthless and savage generals.

      Writing in the voice of an advisor to Yoritomo, Hidetomo Nakadai, a regent and scholar of no particular rank or importance other than being a samurai (“one who serves”) in the court of the Minamoto clan and a retainer to the shogun in the late twelfth century, the Shogun’s Scroll comes to life and is viable as any work of its type at any time in history.

      In Yoritomo’s time, the entire country was in turmoil: countless coups, indescribable conspiracies, and assassinations were an everyday occurrence. It was during this period that the ninja became identifiable. Zen Buddhism had just been introduced into Japan from China by the priest Eisai and it was already making its influence felt, creating religious strife as well. The Minamoto were fighting the Taira clan for control of the government and warfare was constant. It was in this serious state of national debilitation that Nakadai, under constant query by Yoritomo for his thoughts and opinions regarding the state of affairs and rules of conduct in government, puts his ideas into writing. Because of the precarious nature of his court position, Nakadai had to be sure that what he advised the first shogun of Japan was the utmost in correctness. He could make no mistakes if he valued his life.

      During the course of history, there have been many attempts at similar “truths” revealed in different parts of the world. Nakadai was held in very high esteem and did not have to qualify his philosophical position. He maintained himself in an ever higher position in his world and died a very rich and happy man singularly honored by all who knew him and knew of his work.

      Once past the introduction by Nakadai, which establishes proper etiquette and politeness, Yoritomo could study the rhyme and reason of men’s actions in conducting their affairs and lives while comparing them to his own exploits based on the historical examples Nakadai cites throughout the book. Nakadai obviously had the experience and ability, as well as the respect of the court to intelligently present these ideas to Yoritomo, but begs forgiveness for his arrogance in telling the shogun how to conduct his affairs. He also suggests with humility that the words be read in the spirit in which they are written and the understanding that permits a man to realize his own СКАЧАТЬ