The Tale of Genji - Mandala Books - v. 1 Author:Murasaki Shikibu, Lady Murasaki One of the world?s oldest novels and the greatest single work of Japanese literature, this 11th-century romance centers on the lives and loves of an emperor?s son. It offers a vast tapestry of the intrigues and rivalries of court life, as well as an exquisitely detailed portrayal of a decaying aristocracy. Rich in poetry and wordplay in addition... more » to subtle social and psychological observations, this splendid translation of the first part of a tremendously influential masterpiece provides Western readers with a memorable taste of one of the world?s first and greatest novels.« less