Editors’ Pick
Designed to Feel by Peter Burchardt
Designed to Feelby Peter Burchardt — on emotions, evolution & the science of feeling
View on Amazon →
Cover of The Tale of Genji
Classic Literature· Japan

The Tale of Genji

by Murasaki Shikibu
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1008Japanese
Buy on Amazon →

About This Book

When Murasaki Shikibu published The Tale of Genji in 1008, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of classic literature. Often considered the world's first novel, 'The Tale of Genji' provides a detailed depiction of court life in Heian-era Japan. It follows the life and loves of the nobleman Hikaru Genji, exploring themes of love, power, and the impermanence of life. Its intricate narrative and psychological depth have made it a cornerstone of Japanese literature. Themes of impermanence, court life, love and desire run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorMurasaki Shikibu
Published1008
Country of Origin🇯🇵 Japan
LanguageJapanese
Category🏛️ Classic Literature
ISBN978-0142437148
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🏛️ Classic Literature

Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

Explore all Classic Literature books →
Country of Origin

🇯🇵 Japan

This book is part of Japan's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Japan →

Editorial Assessment

Murasaki Shikibu published The Tale of Genji in 1008, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of classic literature from Japan. The book's treatment of impermanence, court life, love and desire, power dynamics accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed The Tale of Genji among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. The appeal of The Tale of Genji lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of impermanence, court life, love and desire, power dynamics is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Japan's literary landscape, Murasaki Shikibu occupies a significant position. The Tale of Genji is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Murasaki Shikibu
Japan
View Author →

Murasaki Shikibu is a Japan author whose work in classic literature has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

Happy Employees
The Management Companion
Happy Employees
What Evolution Tells You About Leading People
Lead with human nature, and your team won’t just perform — they’ll thrive.
Get It on Amazon →Paperback & Kindle

What to Read Next

Cover of The Remains of the Day
literary-fiction

The Remains of the Day

Kazuo Ishiguro· 1989
★Nobel Prize in Literature★Booker Prize
Editorial Score100/100
Cover of The Tin Drum
literary-fiction

The Tin Drum

Günter Grass· 1999
★Nobel Prize in Literature
Editorial Score98/100
Cover of Celestial Bodies
literary-fiction

Celestial Bodies

Jokha Alharthi· 2010
★Booker Prize
Editorial Score93/100
Cover of The Grapes of Wrath
literary-fiction

The Grapes of Wrath

John Steinbeck· 1962
★Nobel Prize in Literature
Editorial Score90/100
Cover of Beloved
literary-fiction

Beloved

Toni Morrison· 1993
★Nobel Prize in Literature
Editorial Score85/100
Cover of The Green House
literary-fiction

The Green House

Mario Vargas Llosa· 1966
★Nobel Prize in Literature
Editorial Score84/100

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Tale of Genji about?

Often considered the world's first novel, 'The Tale of Genji' provides a detailed depiction of court life in Heian-era Japan. It follows the life and loves of the nobleman Hikaru Genji, exploring themes of love, power, and the impermanence of life. Its intricate narrative and psychological depth have made it a cornerstone of Japanese literature.

Who wrote The Tale of Genji?

The Tale of Genji was written by Murasaki Shikibu, from Japan. First published in 1008.

What awards has The Tale of Genji won?

The Tale of Genji has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Tale of Genji worth reading?

The Tale of Genji is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in impermanence, court life, love and desire.

Where can I buy The Tale of Genji?

You can buy The Tale of Genji on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Tale of Genji?

The Tale of Genji is classified as Classic Literature. Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

What country is The Tale of Genji from?

The Tale of Genji originates from Japan's literary tradition. Explore more books from Japan on our country page.

Popular on 50 Best Books

Best Science Fiction Books of All TimeScience FictionBooker Prize Winners — Complete List & GuideLiterary PrizesNobel Prize in Literature — Every Winner Since 1901Literary PrizesClassic Literature Reading List — 50 Essential BooksReading GuidesBest Books for Beginners — 20 Easy Reads for New BookloversReading Guides

Explore More

🏛️More Classic LiteratureBrowse all Classic Literature books🇯🇵Books from Japan🇯🇵 Japan literature📅1000s BooksPublished in the 1000s🏆Top 50 RankingsThe greatest books of all time