Shogun by James Clavell
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Book Reviews of Shogun
Book Review: Exceptional Cross-Cultural Novel of Adventure & Intrigue
Summary: 5 Stars
James Clavell's Shogun may be his most famous work, and it is likewise his best as it presents a marvelous cross-cultural tale of adventure and intrigue in pseudo-historical 17th century Japan.The true artfulness of the story is carried off by the use of Blackthorn, the English navigator of a Dutch ship wrecked in Japan amidst a period of intense political turmoil. Although indeed based loosely upon the real-life figure William Adams, Blackthorn's importance to the story is to present a western viewpoint into the all-too-alien Japanese culture, and as Blackthorn becomes Anjin-san and ever more accustomed to his new life, so do we as the reader find ourselves increasingly immersed and drawn into that culture.
The cast of characters truly suits the epic scope of the novel's story, and most are well-drawn, complex, and interesting (though at times some of the minor characters may seem added as an afterthought). Shogun-to-be Lord Toranaga makes for an excellent impeneterable genius manipulating everyone like a master puppeteer, and Lady Mariko similarly offers an intriguing character that the reader comes to care for.
The fact that Clavell spent years in a Japanese POW camp under the harshest of conditions during World War II (something like only 1 in 15 men survived) makes his portrait of Japan all the more remarkable, for he is able to portray the harsh and often alien life of 17th century samurai-laden Japan in a way that not only makes sense to the reader but that is appealing in the most romantic of ways to a degree far greater than that of Western society of the same period.
I suggest this book heartily to any fan of historical fiction and particularly to those with an interest in Japan.
Book Review: Rare insight (via fiction) into another world
Summary: 5 Stars
I'm so glad my boyfriend got me to read this book. It helped me so much when I later lived in Tokyo, and gave me insight into the woman who became my dearest friend on earth, Yoneko Fukuda. Clavell so expertly weaves romance, adventure and intrigue it was hard to believe that he was actually referring to real events (the character Toronaga is actually Ieyasu Tokugawa who built a dynasty that would last 250 years until the coming of Matthew Perry in 1853). It was men such as Blackthorne who helped establish the English as the naval power they later became. As a Mexican, I was particularly amused by his references to the "dung-eating Spaniards", and also the arrogant and corrupt ways of the Portuguese Jesuits. Also intriguing is how Mariko never quite wholly converted to Catholicism, reminding Blackthorne that she would always be Japanese first. This attitude has never changed through the centuries since. At first, the Samurai seem like murderous butchers, but one must always remember to place things in context. Surely every culture must have periods in its history they are not proud of (remember how the white man forcibly conquered both Mexico and North America and left a "trail of tears"), but also note that there are both heroes and villains among the Samurai. It was very important for Japan's later development (free from European direct influence and corruption) that Toronaga (Tokugawa) was successful in driving the "Christian barbarian" from his land, otherwise Japan would likely not be so prosperous today.
So, anyway, enjoy this book both as a great novel and as an historic document, albeit with fictional characters.
Book Review: Clash of cultures, 16th century style
Summary: 5 Stars
If you're interested in a summary of the plot, read another review. If you're wondering whether this work of historical fiction is more fiction than history, the answer is "yes." However,don't let that put you off the book. Clavell (who was imprisoned by the Japanese in World War II) was very knowledgeable about feudal Japan, and you'll learn a lot. The book is set in the years leading up to the Battle of Sekigahara, which took place in 1600 and established the Tokugawa line of shoguns, which ruled until 1868. In the novel, "Tokugawa" becomes "Toranaga." Blackthorne himself is Clavell's rendering of the historical William Adams, a shipwrecked Englishman who spent his life in Japan. The "Taiko" refers to a name actually taken by the ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi, whose young son, also a historical figure, is at the center of the political calculations made by various characters in the novel. In addition to the historical background and the lively plot, what makes this novel interesting is Clavell's interest in juxtaposing the mores and cultures of the Westerners (Elizabethan sailors, Portugese traders, Jesuit and Franciscan priests) with those of the Japanese. While Blackthorne is gradually drawn to the more pleasing aspects of the Japanese culture (cleanliness, food, dress, politeness, sex, bravery), he also observes the brutality and authoritarianism of its ruling class and the absolute subordination of its peasants. Clavell's images of unbathed, stinking Westerners chowing down on greasy hunks of meat are indelible and amusing, but his images of groveling villagers trembling with fear at the arrival of their feudal lord are equally indelible---and not so amusing.
Book Review: Enering the Land of the Samurai
Summary: 5 Stars
This book takes place in 16th century Japan where feudal lords ruled over the land. A place where foreigners were called barbarians and any contact with them was considered preposterous. After a young talented captain lands in Japan in a storm he quickly adapts and learns the customs and over time is let into the Japanese civilizations. This captain was rare because he was English. He sailed with a mostly Dutch crew. When he lands in Japan he faces more problems then just the samurais and lords. The Portuguese and Spanish also had had landed in years before and since at the time England and Portugal were at war they treated him very harshly. He becomes a samurai and learns the languages. He quickly becomes a key player in the growing conflict between the two most important feudal lords. Since he had the power over ships and understood operations of the ships. One of these lords was Toranaga he was on the regent council of Japan and basically ruled Japan. He took the captain Blackthorn under his wing and helped him. Shogun has so many leaders and characters. Shogun has literally hundreds of side plots that lead up into the larger plot. From assassination attempts to ninjas to coups to basically anything else one could think of. I wouldn?t recommend this book to any one though. It does have some mature content, and shouldn?t be read by anyone under the age of 14. It has a great plot with many plot twists. The number of characters is endless and is very historically correct. I give it 5 out of 5 stars for the mature reader? Many people may give up on it because it is so long, I believe that every part of the book was required and help add to the plot.Book Review: An Escaping Read
Summary: 5 Stars
Being an avid reader since I was a child, I often seek out large books. I do this so my visits to worlds, other than the present, will be extended as much as possible. I've had some good experiences, some not-so-good, and some just terrible. "King Rat" was the first book I've read by Clavell. I was mesmerized by his use of dialogue and insight on human nature-- finding it a very satisfying read. A few friends and my mother had recommended "Shogun." I never followed up on these recommendations, solely because in the past I've been disappointed when trying another piece of the author's work. I assumed the same in Clavell's case. I was wrong to assume.
Although I am not currently finished with the book, I am down to the last 200 pages. I cannot bear to part with the book at times. I've extended my lunch breaks and stayed awake long into the night because I'm always wondering what's up with Blackthorne, Omi, those crazy daimyos, and the lovely 'onnas.'
Knowing this was fictional piece of work, I didn't expect any historical accuracy. However, I do find myself walking away with a better understanding of Japanese history and philosophy. Especially in relation to other works I've read. Questions I've had before were answered and made clearer.
Like every good piece of work, there is always a lull in the story. Even so, I found these lulls to be informative and conducive to the plot. I recommend this book highly to anyone looking for an exciting, colorful new world to dwell for a season. It is a reading escape worthy of my days 30 years ago with Dorothy Kunhardt's "Pat the Bunny." :)