Murasaki Characteristics

Within Murasaki’s Tale of Genji, the arts play an enormous role in the lives of the characters both in and outside of the court. The ability to compose or appreciate the art forms, specifically music, correlates to the character’s status and ability, whereas being unable to do these shows inferiority in the character in ways such as romantic appeal. Within the story, there are many characters who are gifted musicians, extending beyond just instruments suchs the koto or flute but, are able to sing as well. Genji in particular is said to be incredibly gifted with music and his interactions with others via music reveals their various character traits and desires throughout their lives. Firstly, Genji’s early interactions with music create a
Although initial Genji is attracted to Murasaki’s appearance to Fujitsubo he becomes interested in her calligraphy, describing it as being childish but holding promise, they also share various intimate moments with music as well (108). After a celebration and meeting with his father and newborn son, which was born between Genji and Fujitsubo, he retreats to where Murasaki is and they begin to play a duet with his flute and koto. It is explained that while she is still small she shows promise in playing as although the music pieces are difficult she is able to keep true to the tune after only listening to Genji play them. This tender moment between them shows Genji’s caring nature as although he has many consorts and desires Murasaki as well he is happy just to spend time with her and raise her to be a lady of high status and ability. This also shows that Genji is very appreciative of music and holds the ability to play beautiful music in high regard regardless of whether they be man or woman as shown when he plays duets with Akashi Novice and his bestfriend, Tou no
Once brought to them, they played a duet that connected the two men deeply to the point of tears as they discussed the beauty of music and their lives. This scene shows Genji’s strong love for music and this love allows him to connect not just with women but men as well, exemplifying that while he is a man with many consorts he is still a man of the arts and a sociable, sensitive man. Another instance of Genji playing a ensemble with others is later in the story during a court celebration, when he is playing with his bestfriend, rival in love and politics, Tou no Chujo as well as a court lady and the young Emperor, Reizei, who is his son.. At this celebration they play together for the court where they describe Chujo to be playing as well as Genji, where as a group the caliber of their piece is grand (330). This scene shows the strong relationship and rivalry between Genji and Chujo, which is all in good nature, but also shows Genji’s ability to cooperate with others. However, the scene that strikes Genji most deeply is his meeting with Lady