Paginec. 973–c. 1014 · Kyoto (Heian-kyō), Japan · also known as Lady Murasaki
Murasaki Shikibu was a lady-in-waiting at the imperial court of Heian Japan. Around 1000–1010 she wrote The Tale of Genji, the life and loves of the “shining prince” Genji, in 54 chapters of subtle psychological observation — often called the world’s first novel. Her diary is a vivid record of court life.
Begin with The Tale of Genji.
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Murasaki Shikibu was a lady-in-waiting at the imperial court of Heian Japan. Around 1000–1010 she wrote The Tale of Genji, the life and loves of the “shining prince” Genji, in 54 chapters of subtle psychological observation — often called the world’s first novel.
The Tale of Genji is usually considered Murasaki Shikibu’s best-known work.
Most readers start with The Tale of Genji.
Both refer to the same writer.
Many of Murasaki Shikibu’s works are in the public domain; we link to free editions below.