Discuss some of the prominent features and themes found in The Tale of Genji and how that is incorporated into the illustrations in its illuminated manuscripts.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The Tale of Genji is considered by most to be the world’s first novel. This fictionalized account of a young prince follows his life from birth to death, offering a vivid account of Japanese culture and society. Mixing prose and poetry, The Tale of Genji gives us remarkable insight into Japanese aesthetics. These aesthetic values are also implemented into its illuminated manuscript. Figure 11.16 is one of only 20 extant illustrations from the original illuminated manuscript of The Tale of Genji. It shows Genji as he visits his mistress Murasaki on her deathbed. The viewer sees the interior of the room from a bird’s-eye view through a “blown away roof” that ushers the viewer into the intimacy of the scene. Thus the illustration aids the viewer’s connection with the tale, confirming Genji’s proclamation in the text: “Among these lies there certainly are some plausible touching scenes, convincingly told; and yes, we know they are fictions, but even so we are moved.”