The first English translation of 17th-century Japanese Samurai works which have never been out of print in Japan since printing was invented  Enter the world of 17th-century Japanese warfare and the warrior elite, the Samurai. This is a collection of three major texts, published in English translation for the first time. These works include writings on the three distinct military strata: the Samurai, the Ashigaru or foot soldier, and women in war. They include guidelines, tactics, commentaries, and advice written by Samurai of the period, as well as intricate illustrations. Narratives of actual battles and sieges are included in the texts, such as the famous Battle of Sekigahara. This collection is an invaluable resource that sheds new light on the world of the legendary Japanese warrior.