Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era
by Eiji Yoshikawa
Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era by Eiji Yoshikawa holds a exceptional rating of 4.80 out of 5, based on 3.9K reader ratings. First published in 1936. The book spans 970 pages.
About Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era
**The classic samurai novel about the real exploits of the most famous swordsman.**
Miyamoto Musashi was the child of an era when Japan was emerging from decades of civil strife. Lured to the great Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 by the hope of becoming a samurai—without really knowing what it meant—he regains consciousness after the battle to find himself lying defeated, dazed and wounded among thousands of the dead and dying. On his way home, he commits a rash act, becomes a fugitive and brings life in his own village to a standstill—until he is captured by a weaponless Zen monk.
The lovely Otsū, seeing in Musashi her ideal of manliness, frees him from his tortuous punishment, but he is recaptured and imprisoned. During three years of solitary confinement, he delves into the classics of Japan and China. When he is set free again, he rejects the position of samurai and for the next several years pursues his goal relentlessly, looking neither to left nor to right.
Ever so slowly it dawns on him that following the Way of the Sword is not simply a matter of finding a target for his brute strength. Continually striving to perfect his technique, which leads him to a unique style of fighting with two swords simultaneously, he travels far and wide, challenging fighters of many disciplines, taking nature to be his ultimate and severest teacher and undergoing the rigorous training of those who follow the Way. He is supremely successful in his encounters, but in the Art of War he perceives the way of peaceful and prosperous governance and disciplines himself to be a real human being.
He becomes a reluctant hero to a host of people whose lives he has touched and been touched by. And, inevitably, he has to pit his skill against the naked blade of his greatest rival.
*Musashi* is a novel in the best tradition of Japanese story telling. It is a living story, subtle and imaginative, teeming with memorable characters, many of them historical. Interweaving theme
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | Eiji Yoshikawa |
| Published | 1936 |
| Pages | 970 |
| Kindle Price | $18.99 |
| Genres | Fiction |
| Average Rating | 4.80 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 3,866 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era?
Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era is categorized as Fiction. Its primary genre classification is Fiction.
Is Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era worth reading?
Based on 3.9K reader ratings, Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era has an average score of 4.80 out of 5.00, which is considered "Exceptional."
How many pages is Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era?
Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era has 970 pages. It is a longer read suited for dedicated readers.
Who wrote Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era?
Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era was written by Eiji Yoshikawa. It was first published in 1936.
What is the ISBN for Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era?
The ISBN-13 for Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era is 9784770019578.
How much does Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era cost on Kindle?
Musashi: An Epic Novel of the Samurai Era is available on Kindle for $18.99. Pricing may vary by region and promotional offers.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
