Current Projects

Right now I'm busy with two unrelated projects. I am currently translating selected sections of the Shinchokoki (信長公記) - A record of the life of Oda Nobunaga. I plan to translate at least 10 sections, almost done with the first section.

Also, I'm going gung-ho into gathering information for the Shinsengumi section of the SamuraiWiki (which you can find here.) I've translated basic info on about 10 members in the past 2 days, and over the next month or so should be able to gather info on another 70 or 80 members. After which I'll start filling in the actual biographies. Most are in "stub" status as I put up each member with basic information such as the years of birth and death, and thier various aliases, and where they were from. I also picked up Romulus Hillsborough's "Shinsengumi" book, and have just started reading it.

Kofun

I was able to attend the Kofun lecture, and it was interesting, although since Kofun aren't really my thing I don't know how much I was actually able to follow. Theories were thrown around about how Himiko might be buried at Hashihaka, and how she may have been a shaman-priestess, rather than a "queen".

The Samurai Archives Forum now has monthly study groups that focus on reading and research on a specific topic. This month the topic is "Kofun", and is being facilitated by user "Nagaeyari". The next few are being worked out, but it appears that January will be the "47 Ronin", facilitated by user "Wave Tossed", and February will probably be on the "Shinsengumi", facilitated by myself. Basically what each study group entails is a "suggested reading list", as well as some materials provided if available, and a facilitator who "directs" discussion.

If you are interested in joining a future study group, drop by the forum and sign up.