Genji Monogatari, Japanese Original Text

What it is

This is the original Japanese text of the Genji Monogatari (Tale of Genji), written by Murasaki Shikibu, presented here in a 1890 edition edited by Shibuya Eiichi. The text lists the novel's many chapters, from 'Kiritsubo' to 'Yume no Ukihashi.'

Why it matters

This is Murasaki Shikibu's own novel in the Japanese language she wrote it in, making it a vital primary source for studying her writing style, vocabulary, and storytelling. It is considered one of the greatest achievements of classical Japanese literature.

Look closer

• Why is reading a text in its original language important for understanding an author's work?
• What might be lost in translation when this novel is read in English?
• What do the many chapter titles suggest about the scope of the story?