47 Ronin

Perhaps the Foreword by Stephen Turnbull is the more interesting part of this book. He explains that the legend of the 47 ronin fails to follow the basis of law, and that the former Samurai were most likely quite in the wrong as their master almost certainly was. This put a quite different perspective in the story by John Allyn, which is of course fully fictional, as he states in his Preface “This novel is intended to give an account in English of what might have happened in those colourful days when Japan was secluded from the rest of the world and old traditions still governed the lives of men.”

For the telling itself it is strangely flat telling; the writing is simple and doesn't contain much passion or excitement. There should be crescendos leading up to the dramatic events, yet it remains sedate and explanatory. There is also a very long timeframe describes in great details between the execution of Lord Asano and the time for revenge. This is explained as Kira and his supporters had engaged spies to watch their every move, suspecting a revenge attack, and the needed to convince them there was no revenge planned, but it took up almost 2/3 of the novel.

The basis of the story is that Lord Asana, a Daimyo or feudal lord - albeit a young and fairly minor one, is at the Shogun's Court and is frustrated with the slow processes invovled. Kira, the court master of ceremonies was making things difficult for him, as he refused to pay the necessary bribe (or gift-giving, as Turnbull refers to it as). Things come to a head as Kira treats him very rudely in a final attempt to have him submit to the bribe, and Asana loses his self control and draws his sword, striking him down (but not killing him). The penalty for drawing a sword in the Shogun's Court is execution, and this quickly follows.

As well as execution, all of Asana's lands are confiscated, his family turned out, his Samurai immediately default to being ronin - masterless Samurai.

The remainder of the story is the ronin taking revenge on Kira. Turnbull says this is not only not legal under the laws, but misplaced, as if revenge was sought on anyone it would be the Shogun.

The last few chapters, once the ronin determine the time is right for their reprisal, is a lot more upbeat, and the writing finally shows some excitement. After the revenge attack, there is a short period where the ronin are under arrest (having given themselves up) and waiting for judgement from the Shogun's council - I won't spoil the end for the reader!

3.5 stars, rounded down.