Contents
Maps and Figures ix
Acknowledgments xi
Introduction 1
Part I: Origins of a Military Tradition (500–900)
Chapter 1: The Monastery 9
Chapter 2: Serving the Emperor 20
Part II: Systemizing Martial Practice (900–1600)
Chapter 3: Defending the Nation 55
Chapter 4: Staff Legends 82
Part III: Fist Fighting and Self-Cultivation (1600–1900)
Chapter 5: Hand Combat 113
Chapter 6: Gymnastics 137
Chapter 7: Suspect Rebels 182
Conclusion: History, Religion, and the Chinese Martial Arts 197
Appendix: Some Editions of the Sinews Transformation Classic 203
Notes 205
Glossary 239
Works Cited 247
Index 273
vii