Title
The Tale of Genji (Dover Thrift Editions: Classic Novels),New
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Completed in the early 11th century, The Tale of Genji is considered the supreme masterpiece of Japanese prose literature, and one of the world's earliest novels. A work of great length, it comprises six parts, the first part of which (also called The Tale of Genji) is reprinted here. The exact origins of this remarkable saga of the nobility of Heian Japan remain somewhat obscured by time, although its author, Lady Shikibu Murasaki, presumably derived many of her insights into court life from her years of service with the royal family.The novel centers on the life and loves of the prince known as 'the shining Genji.' Far more than an exotic romance, however, the tale presents finely drawn characters in realistic situations, set against a richly embroidered tapestry of court life. Moreover, a wistful sense of nostalgia pervades the accounts of courtly intrigues and rivalries, resulting in an exquisitely detailed portrayal of a decaying aristocracy.Vibrant in its poetry and wordplay, subtle in its social and psychological observations, this work ranks in stature and significance with such Western classics as Cervantes' Don Quixote and Proust's Remembrance of Things Past. This inexpensive edition, featuring Arthur Waley's splendid translation of the first of the sixpart series, offers readers a memorable taste of one of the world's first and greatest novels.
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- Q: What is the main theme of The Tale of Genji? A: The Tale of Genji primarily explores the life and loves of Prince Genji, set against the backdrop of Heian court life, highlighting themes of love, nostalgia, and the complexities of human relationships.
- Q: Who is the author of The Tale of Genji? A: The Tale of Genji was written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu, a lady-in-waiting at the Heian court, who is credited as one of the first novelists in history.
- Q: What type of literature is The Tale of Genji considered? A: The Tale of Genji is regarded as a classic of Japanese prose literature and is often considered one of the world's earliest novels.
- Q: How many pages does this edition of The Tale of Genji have? A: This edition of The Tale of Genji contains 208 pages.
- Q: What is the binding type of this edition? A: This edition of The Tale of Genji is published in paperback.
- Q: When was The Tale of Genji published? A: This edition of The Tale of Genji was published on August 24, 2000.
- Q: Is The Tale of Genji suitable for readers unfamiliar with Japanese literature? A: Yes, this edition, featuring Arthur Waley's translation, is designed to be accessible for readers who may be new to Japanese literature.
- Q: What are the notable features of The Tale of Genji? A: The Tale of Genji is known for its detailed character development, intricate plot, and rich descriptions of courtly life, making it a significant work in literary history.
- Q: Is this edition of The Tale of Genji a good introduction to classic novels? A: Yes, this edition is an excellent introduction to classic novels, showcasing the depth and complexity of storytelling that parallels Western literary classics.
- Q: What makes The Tale of Genji a timeless work? A: The Tale of Genji's exploration of universal themes such as love, loss, and the passage of time, combined with its rich cultural context, contribute to its enduring relevance.