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The Tale of Genji

By Murasaki Shikibu
Penguin Classics
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3.72 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 14,471 ratings, 1,575 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Tale of Genji is a classic work of Japanese literature that follows the life and loves of Hikaru Genji, the son of an emperor who is removed from the line of succession. Set in the imperial court of the Heian period, the novel explores themes of romance, political intrigue, and the fleeting nature of life. It's widely regarded for its intricate character development and insight into court life.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this elegantly woven tale if you're captivated by the intricacies of court life and the poetic nuances of love, longing, and political intrigue in ancient Japan. Its vivid characters and beautifully detailed storytelling provide a window into the Heian period's culture and aesthetics, making it a timeless literary masterpiece.

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At the core of this epic is Prince Genji, the son of an emperor, whose passionate character, love affairs and shifting political fortunes offer a glimpse into the golden age of Japan.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The first complete new translation for 25 years of the acknowledged masterpiece of Japanese literature.

Lady Murasaki's great 11th century novel is a beautifully crafted story of love, betrayal, and death at the Imperial Court. At the core of this epic is Prince Genji, the son of an emperor, whose passionate character, love affairs, and shifting political fortunes offer an exquisite glimpse of the golden age of Japan.

Royal Tyler's superb new translation is scrupulously true to the Japanese original but appeals immediately to the modern reader. This edition also includes notes, glossaries, character lists, and a chronology to enable the reader to appreciate the richness of this classic of world literature.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Murasaki Shikibu's The Tale of Genji is widely hailed as both a masterpiece and the world's first novel, with recent translations enriching its accessibility for modern readers. Reviews commend Royall Tyler's translation for its fidelity to the original and its reader-friendly elements, such as comprehensive footnotes and vivid illustrations. This version is celebrated for capturing the novel's rich tapestry of human experiences, from courtly intrigue to personal emotions, all skillfully rendered to resonate with contemporary audiences.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780142437148

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 24 April 2003

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Translated by Royall Tyler

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 52.0mm

Width: 162.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 1542g

Pages: 1216

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About the Author

Murasaki Shikibu (c. 970-1015) was a member of one of the most powerful dynasties in Japan and the author of a diary which reveals much about court life in Japan. Royall Tyler taught Japanese religion and literature at the Australian National University and has published widely on Japanese literature. He translated Japanese No Dramas for Penguin Classics.

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