The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu Essay -- The Heian Period, Japan

Being a student interested in the field of biology, single knows that studying animation in the past plays an authoritative role in the history of organisms that lived on this earth. Similarly, being Japanese, studying the past of how Japanese were plays an historic role in Japanese history. Despite all the general aspects of life that have changed from the Heian period, the one idea that has definitely not changed is the ro earthtic relationships amongst a hu humankindkind and woman. Though the general concept is the same, from reading The boloney of Genji, it is what was considered the ideal woman and ideal man that were both surprising and and then worth discussing. Written around 978 by Murasaki Shikibu, The rumor of Genji, regarded as the existences first novel, is an excellent source describing the ideal woman and man during the Heian period. Life in the Heian period revolved around the court and the genial hierarchy that came with it. Thus it is completel y understandable that one of the to the highest degree important characteristics of an ideal man or woman was the persons ranking. For most women, especially those in the lower ranks, to be able to give ingest to a son whose father was of high rank would up her testify status. Note however, though that she did not need to marry the father, and this was indeed the flake for many women. The principal(prenominal) reason for this is because men, especially those with high ranks resembling Genji and T no Chuj had affairs with many women disregardless to who they themselves were married. Genji and T no Chuj both knew that because of their high rank, they could for the most part, get any woman they wished. Yet, it is because of this that in The Tale of Genji, they could actually seriously consider various characteristics that they feel represente... ...whereas the ideal man would be one of high rank, faithful and had a tenderness and eloquence. The main trait discussed that would withal apply personally as an ideal man and woman though would be one who was faithful. Though appearance is still a factor, what is considered beautiful has changed and a social hierarchy in the joined States does not exist today. All in all, a relationship surrounded by a man and woman is an important aspect of anyones life, regardless of the place in history, and studying these aspects from a great novel like The Tale of Genji, plays a vital role in understanding Japanese culture. Works CitedShikibu, Murasaki. The Tale of Genji. NY, NY Penguin Classics, 2001. 319. Print.Smits, Gregory. The Heian Period Aristocrats. East Asian History. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Feb 2011. .