Zatoichi

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Zatoichi seems to be only a harmless blind anma (masseur) who wanders around the country making his living by gambling; however, he is also highly-skilled in swordsmanship, specifically iaijutsu. He does not carry a traditional katana, instead using a well-made shikomizue (cane sword). Shikomizue were generally straight lower-quality blades which could not compare with regular katanas, but as revealed in Zatoichi’s Cane Sword, his weapon is nearly superior to one as it was forged by a master bladesmith just before his prime. A recurring theme of both the films and television series is Zatoichi protecting the innocent from oppressive warring yakuza gangs, and general injustice. His fighting skill is incredible, even more so considering he grips the sword in an inverse manner; this combined with his sometimes inexplicably keen ear, nose and proprioception renders him a capable surprise attacker. He is also most likely ambidextrous. In addition, as pictured in the 2003 movie, he can resume the traditional normal grip when necessary.

The character’s name is actually Ichi. Zatō is a title, the lowest of the four official ranks within the Tōdōza, the historical guild for blind men. Ichi is therefore properly called Zatō-no-Ichi (“Low-Ranking Blind Person Ichi”, approximately), or Zatōichi for short. It is also a play on words: ‘Sa’ or ‘za’ is a combinative word for master; ‘to’ is likewise for sword; therefore, an alternate translation might read ‘First Sword Master’. Giving massages was a traditional occupation for the blind, since blind persons and masseurs were on the lowest societal level, equal to or slightly above beggars.

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October 10^th, 2007 (add comment)