About the Author
Lady Nijo
ISBN 9780241562468
Rs. 1,118
Penguin Classics
A Tale Unasked
Who it's for: Readers interested in classical Japanese literature and historical memoirs
Discover Lady Nijo's A Tale Unasked (Towazugatari), a rediscovered masterpiece among classical Japanese women's diaries. This intimate autobiography, spanning passionate courtly love affairs and a profound spiritual journey as a wandering nun, offers a rare window into 13th-century imperial Japan.Why You Should Read? Experience a unique first-person account of an imperial concubine's life and her eventual spiritual transformation. Delve into the complexities of love, power, and societal roles within classical Japan's imperial court. Appreciate a literary treasure, translated by Meredith McKinney, that survived centuries to be rediscovered and shared. Gain insight into Buddhist austerity and the practice of pilgrimage in medieval Japan.
Highlights
- First-person account of an imperial concubine's life
- Covers passionate courtly love affairs and spiritual transformation
- Rare window into 13th-century imperial Japan
- Translated by Meredith McKinney
- Insight into Buddhist austerity and pilgrimage in medieval Japan
Themes
Available formats
1 formatPaperback
Physical
All 77 Districts COD
Nationwide cash on delivery
7-day exchange
Damage or wrong edition
Genuine print
Direct from publishers
Specifications
12 detailsAbout the author
Community Reviews
Sign in to Write a ReviewWrong edition? Want a different title?
Tell us about a book, edition or format you'd like us to stock — or flag anything off about this page.
Sign in to send us a message - it lets us reply and keeps out spam.
Sign inQuestions about this book
What is the book about?
It is an autobiography by Lady Nijo, a 13th-century Japanese imperial concubine, covering her romantic life and later spiritual journey as a nun.
Who translated this edition?
The translation is by Meredith McKinney.
What historical period does it cover?
It provides insight into 13th-century imperial Japan, including court life and Buddhist practices.
Is it a diary or a novel?
It is an autobiographical diary, considered a masterpiece among classical Japanese women's diaries.