Genji Monogatari (The Tale of Genji)

The Tale of Genji is an 11th-century Japanese literary classic written by Murasaki Shikibu, often considered the world’s first novel. It follows the life, romantic relationships, and political intrigues of Prince Genji, exploring themes of love, court culture, and human emotion. The story provides a detailed depiction of Heian-era aristocratic society and offers insight into the complexities of personal desire and societal expectations. Its rich characterizations and poetic language have made it a foundational work of Japanese literature, influencing countless works and shaping Japanese cultural heritage.