BOOK BRIEF

The Diary of Lady Murasaki

Murasaki Shikibu
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The Diary of Lady Murasaki

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005

Book Brief

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Murasaki Shikibu

The Diary of Lady Murasaki

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

90

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Heian Japan • 1000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Diary of Lady Murasaki provides a glimpse into the court life of 11th-century Japan. Through personal reflections, Lady Murasaki Shikibu, a lady-in-waiting, captures her experiences and observations, focusing on her interactions, emotions, and the cultural intricacies of her time. The text offers insight into the Heian-period aristocracy and Murasaki’s inner world.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,220 ratings

64%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Diary of Lady Murasaki is praised for its intimate glimpse into Heian-era court life, showcasing Murasaki Shikibu's keen observations and literary skill. Readers value its historical and cultural insights. Criticisms include its fragmented narrative and occasional unfamiliarity for modern readers. Overall, it remains a vital work for understanding Japanese literature and history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Diary of Lady Murasaki?

A reader fascinated by historical insights and Japanese culture, similar to those who enjoy The Tale of Genji or Memoirs of a Geisha, will appreciate The Diary of Lady Murasaki. They likely enjoy literary diaries that offer personal and cultural perspectives from unique historical contexts.

4.1

2,220 ratings

64%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

90

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Heian Japan • 1000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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