Introduction
The Tale of Genji, arguably the most famous work of classical Japanese literature, was written between the late 10th and 11th centuries(Heian period 794-1185). Since it was written 1,000 years ago, the language and customs are completely different from those of modern Japan.
Therefore, reading The Tale of Genji in the original text is quite difficult, even for Japanese. Even if one reads a modern translation, it is not easy to understand the content unless one knows the court life, the customs and manners in Heian period.
For those who are interested in The Tale of Genji, I would like to explain the background, the life and society of this tale. I can only offer a little help, but I hope you will enjoy old Japanese literature.
Above image : Tokyo National Museum Collection
Nobumasa Konoe, Genji monogatari shyo , Momoyama period ( Partially cut out)
