

#3944
Mentioned in 6 episodes
The Tale of Genji
Book • 1010
Written in the 11th century, 'The Tale of Genji' is a comprehensive narrative that explores the life of Prince Genji, the 'Shining Prince', against the backdrop of Japan's Heian period.
The novel delves into Genji's numerous romantic entanglements, personal struggles, and the societal expectations he faces.
It is a rich tapestry of themes including love, fleeting beauty, and the complexities of relationships defined by honor, desire, and tragedy.
The story also provides a detailed insight into the culture of the aristocracy in early Heian Japan, including its forms of entertainment, daily life, and moral code.
The novel is known for its poetic and aesthetic elements, incorporating over 800 waka poems, and its exploration of human emotions and the transience of life.
The novel delves into Genji's numerous romantic entanglements, personal struggles, and the societal expectations he faces.
It is a rich tapestry of themes including love, fleeting beauty, and the complexities of relationships defined by honor, desire, and tragedy.
The story also provides a detailed insight into the culture of the aristocracy in early Heian Japan, including its forms of entertainment, daily life, and moral code.
The novel is known for its poetic and aesthetic elements, incorporating over 800 waka poems, and its exploration of human emotions and the transience of life.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 6 episodes
Mentioned by
Dominic Sandbrook and
Tom Holland as a seminal work of Japanese literature, offering insights into the Heian period.



240 snips
560. The Golden Age of Japan: Lady Murasaki and the Shining Prince (Part 1)
Mentioned by
Dominic Sandbrook and
Tom Holland as a great Japanese classic written around the same time as "The Pillow Book".



180 snips
561. The Golden Age of Japan: Secrets of the Imperial Court (Part 2)
Mentioned by
Tom Holland as a book he read in Japan, highlighting its similarities to 11th-century Christian literature.


57 snips
#406 - The Legacy of Christianity
Mentioned by Dr. Chris Harding as the first person worth talking about in 7th century Japan.

11 snips
277: Japan: Samurai and Shoguns
Mentioned when discussing the history of sake brewing in Japan.

Learning English Podcast - November 21, 2024
Mentioned by
Tom Holland as a book he read in Japan, highlighting its similarities to 11th-century Christian literature.


#406 - The Legacy of Christianity
Mentioned by
Eleanor Janega as an example of what is possible when we're able to hear more directly from women at this time.


What are the High Middle Ages?