The Tale of Genji

The Tale of Genji is a landmark work of 11th-century Japanese literature, often regarded as the world's first novel. Spanning 54 chapters, it tells the story of Hikaru Genji, the son of an emperor and a concubine, who navigates love affairs and his career as an imperial officer. Interwoven with elegant poetry, the narrative offers a rich portrayal of the Heian era and features an array of well-developed characters.