Overview
Although the Hagashi Dojo and Lord Miyamoto Omori never actually existed, both represent a group of aristocrats who enjoyed great power and prestige in Japan for centuries. The samurai, pronounced SAM u ry, were members of the hereditary warrior class in Japan. The early samurai defended the aristocrats' estates in the provinces. During the 1000's and 1100's, the samurai began to develop a tradition of values and personal conduct. They valued horsemanship, skill with the bow, strong self-discipline, and bravery. Above all, they prized total obedience and loyalty to their lords, and personal honor. If the samurai were dishonored, they would consider it a duty to commit ritual suicide.