Koryu, literally, 'old flow from the past, ' refers to Japanese martial
traditions that predate the sweeping cultural changes that followed the
Meiji Restoration of 1868. They generally have a very different
character and tone from modern martial arts, such as kendo, judo or
aikido which followed. More than the study of antique weapons,
self-defense or a form of athletics, these martial traditions are a
cultural legacy and a window to another time and place. In the first
edition of Old School, Ellis Amdur, a renowned martial arts researcher,
and himself an instructor in two different surviving koryu, gave readers
a rare glimpse into feudal Japanese warrior arts, both as they were in
the past and as they live on today. Nearly a decade later, he returns to
the subject in this new, greatly expanded edition, bringing readers
inside the dojos of a number ancient schools, providing details analysis
of the evolution and morphology of uniquely Japanese weaponry,
addressing the myth and reality of Japan's naginata-wielding warrior
women, and discussing the modern relevance of the blood oaths, magical
ritual and mysticism that often permeate the koryu. Finally, he looks at
the challenge of preservation and transmission, especially as more and
more practitioners of the koryu exist outside of Japan itself. Writing
with a combination of the initiate's passion for his subject, and the
scientist's rigorous search for the truth, Amdur asks critically: do the
ancient traditions still meet the objectives of their founders? Are they
successfully passing their ancient legacy down to the next generation?
Over a third larger than the first edition and filled with new artwork
and photography, Old School: Japanese Martial Traditions Expanded
Edition will be an invaluable addition to the library of old readers and
new alike.
