Murasaki Shikibu

The most famous work of Japanese literature and the world's first novel—written a thousand years ago and one of the enduring classics of world literature. Written centuries before the time of Shakespeare and even Chaucer, The Tale of Genji marks the birth of the novel—and after more than a millennium, this seminal work continues to enchant readers throughout the world. Lady Murasaki Shikibu and her tale's hero, Prince Genji, have had an unmatched influence on Japanese culture. Prince Genji manifests what was to become an image of the ideal Heian era courtier; gentle and passionate. Genji is also a master poet, dancer, musician and painter. The Tale of Genji follows Prince Genji through his many loves, and varied passions. This book has influenced not only generations of courtiers and samurai of the distant past, but artists and painters even in modern times—episodes in the tale have been incorporated into the design of kimonos and handicrafts, and the four-line poems called waka which dance throughout this work have earned it a place as a classic text in the study of poetry. This version by Kencho Suematsu was the first-ever translation in English. Condensed, it's a quarter length of the unabridged text, making it perfect for readers with limited time. "Not speaking is the wiser part, And words are sometimes vain, But to completely close the heart In silence, gives me pain. —Prince Genji, in The Tale of Genji About the Author: Lady Murasaki Shikibu, born in 978, was a member of the famed Fujiwara clan-one of the most influential families of the Heian period. After the death of her husband, Shikibu immersed herself in Buddhism, and the religion's influence permeates her writing.

"This Norton Critical Editions features the unabridged Dennis Washburn translation of Murasaki Shikibu's The Tale of Genji. Composed in 11th-century Japan, The Tale of Genji is considered by many to be the world's first novel. The narrative follows the life of Hikaru Genji as he navigates the intricacte world of aristocratic society. The "Contexts" in this Norton Critical Edition provide a wide range of insightful reactions to reading The Tale of Genji between the 11th and 20th centuries. These selections provide insight into the language and composition of The Tale of Genji, as well as critics' attempts at classifying the work over time. "Criticism" provides nine essays on The Tale of Genji which explore the narrative themes and impact of the novel. A Glossary, and chronologies for The Tale of and Murasaki Shikibu, and a Selected Bibliography are also included"--