This online lecture from the Royal Armouries explores the historical development and Western perception of 'bushido,' the Japanese 'way of the warrior.' It details how the concept gained traction in the late 19th century, influenced by Western ideas on chivalry, masculinity, and gentlemanliness, particularly in response to Western imperial ambitions in Asia. The talk highlights how the display of Japanese arms and armour in Western collections played a significant role in shaping an archaic image of the samurai. The lecture delves into the debates surrounding bushido and its link to imported literature and Western cultural influences, ultimately demonstrating how Japanese self-perception was viewed through an external lens.
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