Volume One translates the fully illustrated sword and spear fighting instruction manual The Way of the Sword, first published about 200 years ago. About the Author: The 16th century Samurai warrior Yamamoto Toki "Way of the Devil" Kansuke was a hero of the Warring States period, roughly 1467-1600. Though partially blind and lame in one leg, Yamamoto Kansuke's prowess as a military strategist was legendary and his methods became the subject of study in Japan ever since. Each of the four editions used in A Closer Look at the Sword Scroll, is actually a combination of two short works.1. Military Strategy and Sword Fighting The Sword Scroll2. Military Strategy and Sword Fighting the Inner Secrets ScrollWhile each of the four volumes is identical in parts, each book contains interesting variations, including different woodblock prints, that collectively add a great deal of information to those interested in traditional Japanese martial arts and military strategy. An important resource for those interested in Samurai fighting arts, Bushido or Japanese History.