Okinawan Kobudo: A History of Weaponry Styles and
Masters" is a comprehensive and complete book on the
origins of the Okinawan kobudo (weaponry). It contains a
description of the early history of weaponry in the
Ryukyus; the relationship of kobudo to karate; and
several myths and misunderstandings about Okinawan
weaponry. In addition to profiles of nearly a dozen
ancient kobudo masters, this book includes detailed
histories and analysis of the major lineages/styles of
Kobudo, including the Yabiku-Taira, Yamane, Matayoshi,
Ufuchiku, and Motobu Udundi (Gotente) schools of kobudo.
In each case, the book provides a history of the
masters--from the founders to today's
masters--analytical assessments of the style's
characteristics, descriptions of their curricula, and
lineage charts. It contains chapters on each of the
weapons of Ryukyu kobudo, including extensive
bibliographies on where to find more information about
each. The book is lavishly illustrated with photos, art
work, maps, tables and charts, including a detailed
table of all the major recognized kata for each weapon
in Ryukyu kobudo. Its footnotes provide access to a wide
array of sources in English, French, German, Spanish,
and Japanese--including available videos on the styles
and masters--for those who wish to learn more. As the
companion to the author's two volume, five-star rated
"Okinawan Karate: A History of Styles and Masters," this
book is an absolute “must-have” for all serious martial
arts students.
|
|