From the translator’s note:
The “Chiushingura” is, or at least was, one of the most popular and best-known romances in Japan. The title is hardly translatable, and is a notable example of the Japanese love of play upon words. “Chiushin” may mean either “loyal-heartedness” or “loyal followers”, and “kura” signifies a treasury or storehouse, while it is also the first half of the name of the popular hero, Kuranosuke, of the historical episode of the 47 Ronin upon which the romance is founded.
About the translator (from Wikipedia):
Frederick Victor Dickins CB (1838–1915) was a British surgeon, barrister, orientalist and university administrator. He is now remembered as a translator of Japanese literature.
He first visited Japan as a medical officer on HMS Coromandel in 1863. For three years he was at Yokohama in charge of medical facilities there. During this time he was in contact with Japanese doctors and culture, and also Ernest Satow who became a lifelong correspondent and friend. He began publishing English translations of Japanese classical works at this time. He left his naval position, returned to England and tried some career choices, but came back to Japan in 1871, having in the meantime married and been called to the Bar. He built up a legal practice in Japan. He was also widely involved with the Yokohama community, with botany, and journalism.
