Ninjas have become a pop culture icon in western society. Shows like Prank Patrol and Teenage Mutan Ninja Turtles, along with games like Fruit Ninja serve to cement their popularity. I did some basic research and came across interesting material from historian and author Stephen Turnbull. Essentially, Ninjas were secret agents of feudal Japan. During power struggles of the 9th to 10th century in Japan, there was an increased demand for informants, and Ninjas served to meet this need. So essentially, Ninjas were spies. They were present up until the 1600s, until there was a revolt against them and they disappeared. If you want to know more, this 64 page ebook by Turnbull is avail be online here: Ninja AD 1460-1650. It details the history, daily life of a Ninja, training and knowledge. So interesting!
Image via public domain: Drawing of the archetypical ninja, from a series of sketches (Hokusai manga) by Hokusai. Woodblock print on paper. Volume six, 1817
In my children’s minds, Ninjas are cunning spies and clever warriors, and are a fun character for imaginative play and for dress ups. The costume is really easy to whip up at home with things you have around the house. My daughter demonstrates how to turn a shirt into a Ninja mask.
How to turn a t-shirt into a Ninja Mask
1. Grab a dark T-shirt.
2. Turn the shirt inside out to hide any brand names (this won’t be necessary if the shirt is plain).
3. Pull shirt over your head and sit the rim of the head opening on the top of the head so the face is framed by the opening circle.
4. Grab the sleeves and pull tight, adjusting a section over the mouth and tying at the back of the head.
5. Tuck in any tags and neaten.
To complete the outfit, just hunt around for dark clothing and accessorise with anything you can find around the house, from ribbon around the wrists to gloves and satchels.
Fierce.
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