15888. MURASAKI SHIKIBU AND JAPANESE WOMEN'S LITERATURE. This paper discusses the 11th century author of “The Tale of Genji” and her contribution to women’s literature in Japan (and to literature in general). Provides an overview and analysis of Shikibu’s life and work, her style of writing, literary innovations, what “The Tale of Genji” shows about courtly life in the Heian period, and interpretations of Murasaki’s possible views on patriarchal practices. 22 pages; 77 footnotes; 12 bibliographic sources.