"The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu is a classic novel written in the early 11th century. Often considered the world's first novel, it provides a detailed look into the lives and dreams of the Japanese aristocracy during the Heian period, primarily revolving around the life of the titular character, Genji, a nobleman with romantic entanglements and personal dilemmas. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the background of low-ranking Lady
Kiritsubo, who becomes the beloved mistress of the Emperor. Despite their deep affection for each other, her status subjects her to the jealousy and ire of the higher-ranking ladies of the court, ultimately leading to her decline and death shortly after bearing the Emperor's son, Genji. This part of the narrative deftly sets the stage for the complex emotional landscape and courtly intrigues that shape Genji's character and future relationships, establishing a poignant tone of longing and loss that permeates the tale. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Part 2 of this translation is published under title: The sacred tree; part 3 under title: A wreath of cloud: part 4 under title: Blue trousers: part 5 under title: The lady of the boat: part 6 under title: The bridge of dreams.
Note
Translation of nine chapters.
Credits
Ronald Grenier (This file was produced from images generously made available by Google Books/Stanford University Libraries.)
Reading Level
Reading ease score: 75.1 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.
