The Tale of Genji Part 1

The Tale of Genji

Before modern technology, which facilitates the spread of ideas, the Japanese culture experienced slower development – compared to Western civilizations – as a result of island isolation.  However, Japanese literature achieves a refined sensitivity of expression that is not seen in Western literature.  Much of the literature we have studied thus far in the semester suggest consequences of civilization, but the Murasaki Shikibu’s The Tale of Genji is distinguished by its sensibility and realism.  Shikibu’s ability to illustrate human emotions is distinct and appreciable, similar to the Japanese death poems we read in class.  Although the development of Japanese culture was hindered due to isolation, perhaps this challenge allowed it to retain individuality and fostered creativity.  

Suffering in The Tale of Genji is realistically conveyed, which sets it apart from Western literature, such as The Epic of Gilgamesh, Antigone, and The Odyssey.  For example, the first chapter in The tale of Genji demonstrates suffering because of social rejection, in which physical health is a function of mental health:  An emperor’s affection for a common woman is deemed socially unacceptable and “the anxiety she suffered as a consequence of these ever-increasing displays of jealousy” eventually kills her.  Furthermore, although the emperor fancies their son, Genji, over his first son, the Common Prince, he is unable to name him the heir of his throne because the court will not support this decision.  In addition to social rejection, the death of Genji’s mother also causes suffering for the emperor and Genji.  The emperor is deeply distressed by this loss, feels no comfort or support from society, and years go by before he finds another woman – Fujitsubo – who resembles Genji’s mother and takes his mind off of her death.  Genji’s sorrow is demonstrated similarly, as he is clearly attracted to Fujitsubo.