Lady Murasaki's Tale of Genji: The Manga Edition

The Tale of Genji is the world's oldest known novel, telling the story of Prince Genji and his adventures in life, love, and power within the Chrysanthemum Royal Court in Kyoto's 10th century. This beautifully illustrated edition brings the story to life, featuring Genji's birth, obsession with Fujitsubo, and romantic life with Murasaki, the true love of his life. Written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu 500 years before Shakespeare, it is acknowledged as the world's first novel and offers an intimate look at the social mores and intrigues in the Heian-era court of medieval Japan.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2022
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

Step into a captivating world of life and love in Kyoto's 10th-century royal court, where the legendary Tale of Genji unfolds. This ancient masterpiece, considered the world's oldest known novel, delves into the captivating adventures of Prince Genji, a handsome, romantic, and talented figure adept at seduction. As he navigates the intricate halls of the Chrysanthemum Royal Court, Prince Genji relentlessly pursues love, encountering both triumphs and challenges along the way. His story, revered as the oldest and most renowned romance in Japanese literature, remains unparalleled in its portrayal of passion and romance.

In this beautifully illustrated edition, readers are transported back to the Heian-era court of medieval Japan. The tale begins with Genji's birth to Kiritsubo, who embodies the epitome of female beauty and grace. His lifelong obsession with Fujitsubo, one of the emperor's lovers and the mother of Genji's son Ryozen, adds depth and complexity to his character. His romantic life with Murasaki, Fujitsubo's beautiful niece and his favored lover, unfolds against a backdrop of political intrigue and social customs. Initially wary of his intentions, Murasaki eventually becomes Genji's true love, a relationship that defies societal expectations.

Lady Murasaki Shikibu, the author of this timeless masterpiece, penned the story centuries before Shakespeare put pen to paper. Recognized as the world's first novel, Tale of Genji has now been translated into manga style, offering English-speaking readers a unique visual experience. Through superbly illustrated pages, this adaptation provides an intimate glimpse into the social mores and intrigues of the Heian-era court. Prince Genji, portrayed as the ideal male courtier, serves as a captivating protagonist, embodying the values and aspirations of his time.

Tale of Genji's enduring legacy lies in its profound exploration of human emotions, relationships, and the complexities of power. It offers a timeless testament to the enduring power of love and the human quest for fulfillment. As you immerse yourself in this captivating story, you will be transported to a world of beauty, romance, and intrigue, where the boundaries between love and ambition blur, and the pursuit of happiness knows no bounds.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 254 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9784805316566