How does Musashi come to be known by that name? What is his name prior to that time? Name another circumstance in which he lives under a different name and describe how he came to that point.

Compare Musashi and Matahachi.

Who is Osugi? What is her role in the lives of Musashi, Otsu and Matahachi? How does her life change over the course of the story?

Who is Otsu? How does she come to transfer her adoration from Matahachi to Musashi? What happens to her life as the result of that incident?

How are the lives of Jo, Otsu, Iori, Musashi, Matahachi, Osugi and Akemi intertwined? Describe the relationships among these characters.

Who is Koetsu? What role does he play in the life of Musashi? Who is Gonnosuke? What is his role in Musashi's life?

Compare the lives and personalities of Musashi and...