The Last Samurai: image and reality

[erudito]

Mark Ravina’s The Last Samurai: The Life and Battles of Saigo Takamori is a splendid biography of the historical figure who inspired the character of Katsumoto, played by Ken Watanabe, in the film The Last Samurai.

Ravina is particularly good at conveying the ins and outs of Japanese politics in the period before, during and after the Meiji Ishin

Comments

Just Doing Research and Wondering

[anonymous]

Shogun Tokugawa Leyasu which led the last Shogunate's until 1867 doesn't have anything to do with the the subject?

Re: Just Doing Research and Wondering

[erudito]

Well, yes in Saigo Takamori's life, but not in the connection with the film, since it takes place (about 10 years) after the Meiji Restoration.