A Perspective on the Chinese Imagination and Martial Arts

The second film is a true story but not as famous as the first. Chushingura tells the tale of dishonor and revenge. Unlike traditional Wuxia fiction, this story is an account of action taken in real life. It also differs from normal Wuxia storylines due to the tactics employed to accomplish the mission.

In this tale, correct behavior is "non-action." Commanded by the Shogan not to seek revenge, 47 men and their families must faint indifference. They must hide their anger and frustration while carrying on with their daily lives.

They wait until the day finally arrives, and they take the head of their enemy, which also means they must commit suicide for defying the command of the Shogun.

This film was my first encounter with the idea that one's honor is more important than death. I would later encounter this theme elsewhere, on many different stages. But Chushingura grabbed me in a way I had not been touched before.

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