Introduction
Murasaki Shikibu’s Tale of Genji tells the story of the Emperor’s son Genji. The novel, set during the Heian period, highlighted the romantic exploits of Genji and highlighted the adoration of people around him. It also reflected Genji’s dealings with the aristocracy and presented notable characteristics unique to the era. Alongside the prominence of Genji’s noble features throughout the novel comes the colorful selection of characters, all of which played significant roles that connected well to the events in which he featured.
Chapter Four of the novel, entitled “Yugao” or “The Twilight Beauty”, is ...