A classic tale that will captivate lovers of Japanhistoryand epic adventure alike.
Japan's most celebrated tale of chivalryloyalty and revenge--and the basis for a Hollywood feature film starring Keanu Reaves--47 Ronin is the epic tale of a heroic band of Samurai warriors who defy the Japanese Emperor to avenge the honor of their fallen master.

The story begins in 1701 when the noble Lord Asano attacks an official at court. His punishment is swift and harsh--the Emperor orders Lord Asano to commit ritual suicide (harikiri). His lands are confiscatedhis family exiledand his Samurai warrior brigade is disbanded--becoming Ronin or masterlesswandering renegades.

While appearing to follow the Emperor's instructionsthe 47 Ronin plot in secret for many yearsbiding their time until the moment to strike is right. Like the story of the Knights of the Round Tablethe Ronin's deeds became legendaryiconic examples of couragecunning and loyalty in an age when the Samurai were true heroes and honor was something worth dying for.

John Allyn's vivid retellingwith a foreword by scholar and film advisorStephen Turnbullpresents this epic of Japanese literature in its correct historical context.