Contents
Murasaki Shikibu
Writing The Tale of Genji, a landmark of narrative fiction.
The Tale of Genji · The Diary of Lady Murasaki
- Born
- c. 973
- Birthplace
- Japan
- Died
- Unknown
More people
Murasaki Shikibu
Murasaki Shikibu was a Heian-period writer and court attendant whose work explored relationships within aristocratic society.
Early life
Literary family
Grew up in a scholarly branch of the Fujiwara family.
Learning
Acquired literary knowledge beyond the usual expectations for women of her time.
Career
- Around 1000
Early writing
Began the literary work associated with her name.
- Early 11th century
Court service
Served Empress Shōshi.
- Court years
Major writing
Produced fiction, a diary and poetry.
Selected writings
The Tale of Genji
Developed a long, psychologically attentive narrative.
The Diary of Lady Murasaki
Recorded court life and personal observations.
Collected poems
Contributed to the literary culture of her period.
Historical context
Identity
Her personal name is not securely known.
Legacy
Genji has inspired visual art, theatre and later fiction for centuries.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Photo: Tosa Mitsuoki (1617 - 1691). Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
