The Viking shield wall is a famed battle strategy, but what are less well known are the actual techniques used in hand-to-hand combat, duels, and other forms of close-quarter engagements. Based on a comprehensive analysis of Viking sagas and other period sources, this is the first book to present a step-by-step Viking martial system. Martial arts expert Antony Cummins reveals the hitherto hidden world of Viking combat, ranging from the techniques to the weapons used, the limitations of period armor, and the range of wounds suffered by combatants. With more than 250 photographs, The...

The myths of the noble Samurai and the sinister Ninja are filled with romantic fantasy and fallacy.

Samurai and Ninja expert Antony Cummins shatters the myths and exposes the true nature of these very real--and very lethal--medieval Japanese warriors. The Samurai and Ninja were in fact brutal killing machines trained in torture and soaked in machismo. Many were skilled horsemen and sword-fighting specialists, while others were masters of deception and sabotage. Some fought for loyalty, others for personal gain. What these warriors all shared in common was their unflinching personal...

The Dark Side of Japan is a collection of folk tales, black magic, protection spells, monsters and other dark interpretations of life and death from Japanese folklore. Much of the information comes from ancient documents, translated into English here for the first time. Antony Cummins has also searched the now forgotten Victorian volumes on Japanese mythology and explains recent academic research on Japan for the non-expert. Antony has transformed the complex information into a modern rendering, with stories and details that let a modern reader enter into the world of the forgotten legends of...

This is the world's only illustrated guide to the real ninja teachings of the Japanese historical scrolls. These original techniques are presented in a highly accessible 'how-to' format that combines easy-to-follow text with a fresh, contemporary design.

This is the first book ever to present the authentic ninja techniques in a highly accessible, illustrated 'how to' format. The shadowy figure of the ninja - expert commando, secret agent, maverick who operates outside social norms - continues to exert fascination in the West, yet much of what is presented as ninja fact today is...

This new volume in the prestigious, beautifully presented Book of Samurai series offers an unparalleled understanding of a historical samurai's armour, weaponry and military tactics.

This is the most accessible edition of Art of War ever produced, with the text broken down into digestible individual lessons, unique teaching illustrations to clarify the text, and step-by-step commentary that draws on the full range of recent translations and ancient commentators.

The first guide to using samurai self-discipline, focus and determination in order to find your unique inner power and be a success in your chosen field. This inspiring book offers historically authentic and highly effective mind-control and leadership techniques, as well as fun activities to bring a flavour of old Japan into your life.