Introduction by the Translator

Genji Monogatari (The Tale of Genji, Version 2)

by Murasaki SHIKIBU (978 - c 1025)

Genji Monogatari, or The Tale of Genji, is a Japanese classic novel from the eleventh century. Supposedly commissioned by members of the Imperial Family, it tells the story of the son of the Emperor's favorite concubine and his role as a privileged boy and man, but not quite recognized as royal. He is placed in a loveless marriage, but continues a number of 'friendships' with the women of the court. This translation brings us the first seventeen chapters, and there is some dispute over the authorship of later (not included) chapters. The book gives us a fascinating insight into court life of the period. - Summary by Lynne Thompson

Listen next episodes of Genji Monogatari (The Tale of Genji, Version 2):
Akashi (Exile at Akashi) , Aoi (Hollyhock) , Hahaki-Gi (The Broom-Like Tree) Part 1 , Hahaki-Gi (The Broom-Like Tree) Part 2 , Hana-No-Yen (Flower Feast) , Hanachi-Sato (Villa of Falling Flowers) , Kiri-Tsubo (The Chamber of Kiri) , Momiji-Ga (Maple Fete) , Myo-Tzkushi (The Beacon) , Sakaki (Divine Tree) , Sekiya (Barrier House) , Suma (Exile at Suma) , Suyetsu-Hana (Saffron Flower) , Waka-Murasaki (Young Violet) , Wootz-Semi (Beautiful Cicada) , Ye-Awase (Competitive Show of Pictures) , Yomogi-Bu (Overgrown Mugwort) , Yugao (Evening Glory)