Part 2

I caught this brilliant episode of The Rifleman this morning on AMC.

 

 

In this episode, a Japanese dignitary visits North Fork with his manservant. The Rifleman takes place in the 1870’s and 1880’s.
So, let the culture clash begin!
The visiting character is introduced as The Sixteenth Cousin (also the name of the episode–JW), of the Emperor and they are visiting to learn more about Western culture.
He is also introduced as a Samurai.

Samurai History

Which is odd, because the Samurai were abolished as a class in the 1870’s and not allowed to wear Katanas any longer.
Now, looking at this episode with 55 years of television history having gone by, I over-complicate the scenario by thinking these guys must be up to something because of that little inconsistency. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll get to see 1963’s version of a ninja!
No such luck.

Jiu-Jitsu as Science!

But they do talk about Jiu-Jitsu. They talk about how Jiu-Jitsu is a form of self-defense and how arduous and precise the training must be to possess the skill set. Even referring to Jiu-Jitsu as a science!

The plot thickens as two drunken cowboys take issue with the manservant. Honour is besmirched and a duel to the death must occur to resolve the issue.

The Limitations of TV production

The Samurai arrives in full regalia. (I’ll leave out a more detailed description for your viewing pleasure). The manservant whips off his robe revealing a gorgeous white gi complete with black belt. Both men proceed to beat up the cowboys with an impressive array of throws including a rather wicked looking Reverse Hip-Throw.

Obviously, there were limits to TV production in the early 60’s but I’m grateful for the shout-out to Jiu-Jitsu.

It makes for great TV!!

–Sensei Jim