The first complete new translation for 25 years of the acknowledged masterpiece of Japanese literatureLady Murasaki'sgreat 11th-century novel is a beautifully crafted story of love, betrayal & death at the Imperial Court. At the core of this epic isPrince Genji, the son of an emperor, whose passionate character, love affairs & shifting political fortunes, offer an exquisite glimpse ofthe golden age of Japan.Royall Tyler'ssuperb new translation is scrupulously true to theJapaneseoriginal but appeals immediately to the modern reader.This editionalso includes notes, glossaries, character lists and a chronology to enable the reader to appreciate the richness of this classic of world literature. in the eleventh century, this exquisite portrait of courtly life inmedieval Japaniswidely celebrated as the world's first novel-and is certainly one of its finest.Genji, the Shining Prince, son of an emperor, is a passionate character whose tempestuous nature, family circumstances, love affairs, alliances, & shifting political fortunes form the core of this magnificent epic.The first translation of the Japanese masterpiece in a generationintroduces modern readers to this brilliant account of courtly life inmedieval Japan.Lady Murasaki Shikibu, born in the year978, was a member of the famedFujiwara clan--one of the most influential families of theHeian period. Her literary ability quickly won her a place in the entourage of theEmpress Akiko. After the death of her husband,Murasaki Shikibuimmersed herself inBuddhism, & the religion's influences permeate her writing.