Tale of Genji

The Tale of Genji, written by the Japanese authoress Murasaki Shikibu in the 11th century, is generally regarded as the earliest true novel in any culture, and as the greatest masterpiece of Japanese literature. In this scene from the Asagao chapter of the novel, the great prince and lover Genji has just made an abortive visit to the palace of the Morning Glory Princess. He sits discussing his other paramours with his favourite wife Murasaki, while watching his housemaids play in the snow. The novel is remarkable both for its rich depiction of the refined culture of Heian-period Japan, and for its sensitivity to the impermanence of the world.

Chester Beatty Library and Gallery of Oriental Art/Bridgeman Art Library, London/New York

Appears in these articles

Japan; Heian Period; Japanese Literature; Shikibu Murasaki; Diary Writing

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