Review: 47 Ronin #4

As I mentioned last time, the legend of the 47 Ronin is a very familiar one to me. Mike Richardson and Stan Sakai’s adaptation of it delights once again, although the mood of this issue is certainly grimmer than last time’s. Really, if you’re looking for a blindly upbeat series, this isn’t the right one, as this issue contains a chapter that well-earned its title of “Disgrace”. However, if you’re looking for an interesting adaptation of the story that defines Japan, the penultimate issue of 47 Ronin is well worth it.

The art style is still beautifully suited to this tale.  The woodblock aesthetic feel particularly suited to this ukiyo-e. It isn’t a glamorous look, though – the scenes are purposefully meant to show the shame of the 47 ronin, epitomized with Oishi and Masahisa. In this issue, we see just how far these men have fallen, as they turn their backs on their loved ones and purposefully shame themselves in order to lull Kira into a false sense of security.

That’s their driving purpose at this point – to somehow get to Kira to avenge their lord. Nothing else matters, which is clearly evidenced by the scenes of shame that are emphasized in the first chapter.  While it may initially seem as if these men have utterly lost their way, losing every last trait that once made them proud samurai, it is revealed that even their shame was part of their duty to their lord and thus the cause for more pride and honor.

You can probably see why this is considered the defining trait of Japanese history – nothing like extreme loyalty, self-sacrifice, and pride in one’s duty, eh?

I particularly liked the brief battle scene between Oishi and Kira’s just-dismissed head of security, again for its traditional elements and style. It’s also the definitive “reveal” moment, where we see just how well Oishi was playing the part of drunken fool in order to achieve his dearly-held goal. It’s a simple, single page, but it’s very effectively laid out. As a fan of simple but effective, it definitely appealed to me.

After reading two issues of this (smack in the middle, of course) I can simultaneously say that it’s a fantastic introduction to the legend, but it can also be a bit confusing if it is your first introduction to the wealth of Chushingura. The story is clear and easily followed, but sometimes names do get mixed up, or if you’re not paying close attention, you might swap around a character or two. This isn’t enough of a detriment to be a problem – if you get confused, a quick Wikipedia search will get you your bearings back. Really, don’t worry about spoiling yourself for this one; everything dealing with this story boils down to variations in execution.

On that front, I can’t find a fault in this one. It’s a genuinely enjoyable and interesting take on the most classic Japanese tale, and one that I’m actively enjoying. The next issue will be the grand climax of the story (the assault on Kira), and I’m quite looking forward to seeing what spin Richardson and Sakai will put on it. For $3.99, it’s worth a pick-up if you’re a fan of history or timeless epics.

Jeni “Science Whyzard” Hackett will be spending the summer editing things and reading comics in the name of historical research, because she is definitely living the dream. This comic would be fantastic for use in a history of the development of the tale of the 47 Ronin and how centuries later it’s still being told in new and fascinating ways to a modern audience. She really likes that sort of thing. You can find her on twitter under the name @allonsyjeni, email her at jeni.is.a.geek@gmail.com, or find her on tumblr at hellomynameisgeek.