GRAPHIC NOVELS

The 47 Ronin

by Akiko Shimojima
Wilson, Sean Michael (text) & (illus.). Shambhala. Nov. 2013. 160p. ISBN 9781611801378. pap. $14.95. HISTORICAL FANTASY
COPY ISBN
In this historically based Japanese legend from the early 18th century, daimyo (feudal lords) Asano and Kamei receive etiquette training from Kira, a rude official, in the capital of Edo. While Kira becomes more polite to Kamei after a bribe from Kamei's followers, his insults to Asano increase, resulting in Asano's failed attempt to kill him. For this crime, the shogun orders Asano to commit suicide, leaving his followers as ronin, or masterless samurai. Outraged that Kira received no punishment for his role in the tragedy, 47 of the ronin hatch a successful plot to kill him and avenge their master. Though many people consider their actions just, the shogun can't ignore the murder they've committed, and he orders them all to follow their master in honorable death.
VERDICT Wilson uses exactly the right scenes to tell this famous story, creating a quick, engaging read. Shimojima's detailed manga-style artwork lends itself well, although some of her character designs are a little difficult to tell apart. Recommended for Japanese history fans and for those who plan to see the more loosely based Hollywood film this December.
Reviewed by Heather Williams, Whatcom Community Coll., Bellingham, WA , Nov 22, 2013
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

GRAPHIC NOVELS

Past Tense: Facing Family Secrets and Finding Myself in Therapy
by Mardou, Sacha
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Soseki Natsume’s Botchan: The Manga Edition
by Natsume, Soseki
GRAPHIC NOVELS

The Hidden Life of Trees: A Graphic Adaptation
by Wohlleben, Peter & Fred Bernard
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Masterpiece
by Bendis, Brian Michael
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Vol. 1
by Thompson, Zac
GRAPHIC NOVELS

Caravaggio: The Palette and the Sword, Vol. 1
by Manara, Milo
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?