Book Seven

A Summary of Book Seven:

Book seven begins with division among the Minamoto, specifically Minamoto no Yoshinaka (Kiso) and Minamoto no Yoritomo. The two join forces and set out on a campaign to defeat the Taira. Episodes throughout this chapter feature themes of poetry, music, and prayer being used for divine purposes. The Taira suffer major military losses at the Kurikara Ravine, Shinohara, and are eventually forced to flee the capital. Kiso no Yoshinaka prepares to enter the capital, and the various Taira flee, burning their houses behind them. They retreat first to Fukuhara, then burn it, and take to boats, heading west to Kyushu.

Below are the four story arcs found in Book Seven:

The Taira launch an assault Northward

Episodes 1 - 4

The end of book six resulted in the death of Kiyomori, thus the overall climate of Japan is becoming more and more hectic. The beginning of this book notes a rising power within the Minamoto, which the Taira respond to by sending a force northward to defeat Kiso no Yoshinaka. After Tsunemasa's visit to Chikabushima, the Taira secure a minor victory in the battle at Hiuchi.

destruction of the Taira Military forces

Episodes 5 - 9

Throughout these chapters, the Taira face major military defeat to Minamoto no Yoshinaka and the Minamoto clan. There is an emphasis on acts of courage from warriors on both sides of the battle.

Enryakuji monks: Allies or foes

Episodes 10 - 12

After achieving major military victories against the Taira, Minamoto no Yoshinaka appeals to the Enryakuji monks for support, to which they accept. Likewise, the Taira ask the Enryakuji monks for support - but it is too late. This objectively confirms the superior position the Minamoto hold over the Taira.

The Taira flee the capitAl

Episodes 13 - 20

After the utter destruction of the Taira, the remaining family members are forced to retreat south from the capital, due to the advancing Minamoto. These episodes depict the less cruel deeds of the Taira and provide a more sympathetic view of each family member being forced to retreat. As the Taira flee, they burn the capital to the ground; they also burn the former capital Nara to the ground.