The curriculum included fencing, archery, yawara, horsemanship, and use of the spear, tactics, calligraphy, ethics, literature and history. The code placed particular emphasis on Justice, Courage, Benevolence, Politeness, Truthfulness, Honor, Loyalty, and self-control. Nothing is more loathsome to a Bushi than underhand dealings and crooked undertakings. Courage is a virtue only in the cause of righteousness. When young, they were often led to un-nerving places as execution grounds, graveyards, and houses reputed to be haunted.
Benevolence is thought of as a feminine trait.
It was thought an essential part of nature to counter-balance rectitude and stern justice, two masculine traits. The trait of benevolence includes love, affection for others, sympathy and nobility of feelings. These were considered the highest attributes for the soul. Politeness is a poor virtue if one does it for fear of offending good taste. The casual visitor in Japan immediately observes politeness, courtesy and excellent manners.