The Book Show

It's believed to be the world's first modern novel, penned a thousand years ago. The Tale of Gengi by Murasaki Shikibu starts when a woman of lower rank in the court gives birth to a son called Genji. He is favoured by the emperor because he's so beautiful, talented and likeable. He goes on to have many love affairs, which allows Murasaki Shikibu to explore ideas of love, court politics, friendship, life and death. Ten centuries on, the popularity and influence of this ancient text has not diminished and this year to honour the millenium of The Tale of Gengi, Japan is celebrating.

Guests

Royall Tyler, translator The Tale of Genji

Further Information

Public lecture,The Tale of Genji by Dr Royall Tyler

Presenter

Ramona Koval

Producer

Linda LoPresti

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