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Paper short abstract

This paper will examine the intertextual nature of The Tale of Genji through an analysis of tropes of decay and ruin which take on new relevance for readers of the medieval age. Keywords: utakotoba, tsuyu, mugura

Paper long abstract

The Tale of Genji continued to be read and appreciated for many years is its status as an essential text for poets to study. For readers of the late Heian and early medieval period, this idea was epitomized by Shunzei's judgment in the Roppyakuban Utaawase: "Composing poetry without knowledge of the Genji is a regrettable thing."

The Shin Kokin Wakashū contains many expressions that are thought likely to be derived from Genji monogatari. In a recent analysis of poetic expressions of the anthology, it has been argued that poems related to the "Yūgao" chapter are found in the sections on the four seasons while those drawing on the "Yomogiu” chapter are contained in sections on love. In this paper, we suggest that these two chapters were chosen for a reason. A set of utakotoba is common to both: tsuyu, mugura no yado, and expressions relating to ruins. These are literary tropes that transcend genres over the course of their reception, taking on new relevance for readers of the medieval age. Some of the literary connotations of mugura no yado and related expressions are revealed in passages of the Mumyōzōshi (late twelfth century?) that describe people admiring mugura ("mugwort") at the residences of Daisaiin Senshi and Fujiwara no Teishi. Why are ruins and weeds held in such high esteem? This paper will examine the intertextual nature of The Tale of Genji through an analysis of tropes of decay and ruin.