Murasaki Shikibu (author)

Murasaki Shikibu was a Japanese noblewoman and writer from the early 11th century, best known for authoring "The Tale of Genji," considered the world's first full-length novel. Living during the Heian period, she was a lady-in-waiting at the Imperial court, where her keen observations of court life and human relationships influenced her storytelling. Her work is celebrated for its complex characters, psychological depth, and elegant prose, offering invaluable insights into aristocratic life centuries ago. Murasaki Shikibu is regarded as one of Japan’s greatest literary figures, shaping the development of Japanese literature and storytelling.