The Tale of Genji

Narrative, poetry and relationships in the world of The Tale of Genji. Keep court titles, changing perspectives and translation choices visible.

Penguin Classics, 2002; unabridged; ISBN 9780142437148 · Translated by Royall Tyler

View the work and reading plans

How to study this source

• How do rank and point of view shape a narrative?

  coreIntroduction or preface and opening chapter. Record the edition and translator before reading.

  Narrative, poetry and relationships in the world of The Tale of Genji. Keep court titles, changing perspectives and translation choices visible.

• How do rank and point of view shape a narrative?

  coreComplete main text; the sequential locations below cover the whole work.

  Narrative, poetry and relationships in the world of The Tale of Genji. Keep court titles, changing perspectives and translation choices visible.

Ideas and questions

Read background definitions when a term blocks the argument. Then return to the source and reconstruct its claim in your own words.

Read alongside, read against