The Tale of Genji, also known as Genji Monogatori,  is a classic and foundational work of Japanese literature that depicts the manners and intrigues of members of the court culture during the Heian period.  The novel was written in the early 11^th century and is attributed to Murasaki Shikibu, who is believed to have been a noblewoman and lady-in-waiting. Universally acclaimed as a masterpiece, it is also a work “firsts”: the first novel, the first psychological novel, the first modern novel, and the first to continue to be considered a classic.  It was likely written in installments that were delivered periodically to an audience of aristocratic women.  The first English translation was done by Suematsu Kencho in 1882, and it is this translation that is used in this audiobook.

The story takes place over a long period of time and centers on an account of Hiraku Genji, son of an emperor, and his relationship with a beloved concubine Minamoto.  Genji has been removed from the line of succession and pursues a career as an imperial officer. The story focuses on Genji’s romantic escapades and depicts the highly regimented customs of the day.  There little in the way of plot, and a cast of some hundred characters come and go as the years go by, events evolve, affairs produce offspring, lovers die, power changes hands, and unexpected consequences multiply.  Most of the characters are never given names, but rather referred to by their social role.  The book ends abruptly in mid-sentence, and scholars have debated whether it was the intended ending, if there are missing chapters, or if Murasaki Shikibu simply left it unfinished.

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