Eight Dogs, or "Hakkenden": Part Two—His Master's Blade

Kyokutei Bakin's Nansō Satomi Hakkenden is a multigenerational samurai saga that has been adapted into many forms of media. The story follows the eight Dog Warriors, who are born from the union of Princess Fuse and the dog Yatsufusa. Shino, the first Dog Warrior, is an orphaned descendant of proud warriors who seeks to restore his family name.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 546 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Kyokutei Bakin's Nansō Satomi Hakkenden is a monumental work of Japanese literature that has left an indelible mark on the world of literature. This epic multigenerational samurai saga was a sensation in the nineteenth century and has been adapted into numerous forms of media, including film, television, fiction, and comics. His Master's Blade, the second installment of Hakkenden, sets the stage for the captivating tale of the eight Dog Warriors, born from the mystical union between Princess Fuse and the dog Yatsufusa. These warriors were scattered across eight different samurai families in fifteenth-century Japan. The first warrior we meet is Inuzuka Shino, an orphaned descendant of proud warriors. With nothing but a magical sword and a bead that marks him as a Dog Warrior, Shino sets out on a mission to reclaim his family name and avenge those who have wronged him. Little does he know, he is drawn into a world of treachery, quests, and camaraderie, where each warrior seeks to discover their true nature and find their place within the exclusive fraternity of eight. The journey is filled with thrilling battles, heroic deeds, and unexpected alliances, as the Dog Warriors navigate the complexities of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. Through their trials and tribulations, they learn the true meaning of friendship and the power of unity. Nansō Satomi Hakkenden is a masterpiece that showcases Bakin's exceptional storytelling skills and his deep understanding of Japanese culture and history. It remains a beloved classic that has captivated readers for generations, and its influence can be seen in the works of countless authors and artists.

Weight: 834g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501773907