A History of the Samurai

Japan’s warrior class, the samurai, brutally dominated politics and society for more than half of the nation’s recorded history. Students will explore Bushido, or “the way of the warrior,” starting with the rise of the warrior class in Japanese society until their final dramatic days in 1889.

Locations: Los Altos, Mountain View, In Home

Cost: $120/hr

Recommended hours: 8-12

Goals:

  • Recognize the different eras of the samurai influence throughout Japan’s history
  • Define and identify the significance of various key terms
  • Analyze and interpret primary and secondary sources
  • Write a 5-7 page history paper on a topic relating to samurai selected by you and your tutor

To Enroll Call (650) 331-3251/ (408) 345–5200

 
 
 

Course Description:

The History of the Samurai is a wonderful option for students interested in the history of Japan and looking to improve their writing skills! Together, we will explore the origins of the warrior class and how it came to dominate the political landscape of Japan until World War II and beyond. Students will read primary sources on samurai from the 600s, the 1200s, the 1500s, and the 1800s, in addition to secondary sources from the 1900s and 2000s. We will dispel myths constructed about the samurai and analyze the accuracy of samurai in modern media.

At the end, we will compile everything we have learned into a well-crafted analysis essay. By the end of the class, students will be able to analyze primary and secondary sources, support arguments with historical evidence, and make larger connections to the present day.

Make the Most of the Summer!

Students who stay actively engaged in the learning process during the summer perform better during the school year.

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