Being a student interested in the field of biology, one knows that the study of life in the past plays an important role in the history of organisms that have lived on this earth. Likewise, being Japanese, the study of the past of the Japanese plays an important role in the history of Japan. Despite all the general aspects of life that have changed since the Heian period, the one idea that has absolutely not changed is that of romantic relationships between a man and a woman. Although the general concept is the same, when reading The Tale of Genji, it was what was considered the ideal woman and the ideal man that was both surprising and therefore worth discussing. Written around 978 by Murasaki Shikibu, The Tale of Genji, considered the world's first novel, is an excellent source describing the ideal woman and man during the Heian period. Life in the Heian period revolved around the court and the social hierarchy that accompanied it. It is therefore completely understandable that one of the most important characteristics of an ideal man or woman is their ranking. For most women, especially those of lower ranks, being able to give birth to a son whose father was of high rank would improve their own status. Note, however, that she did not need to marry the father, and this was indeed the case for many women. The main reason for this is that men, especially high-ranking ones like Genji and Tõ no Chujõ, had relationships with many women, regardless of who they themselves were married to. Both Genji and Tõ no Chujõ knew that due to their high rank, they could mostly have any woman they wanted. Yet, it is for this reason that in The Tale of Genji they might actually seriously consider various characteristics they believe they represent...... middle of paper ...... whereas the ideal man would be a high-ranking man. , faithful and had tenderness and eloquence. The main trait discussed that would still apply personally as an ideal man and woman would be one who would be faithful. Although appearance is still a factor, what is considered beautiful has changed and there is no social hierarchy in the United States today. Overall, the relationship between a man and a woman is an important aspect of everyone's life, regardless of where the story takes place, and studying these aspects from a great novel like The Said of Genji plays an essential role in understanding Japanese culture. Shikibu City, Murasaki. The Tale of Genji. NY, NY: Penguin Classics, 2001. 319. Print. Smits, Gregory. “The Aristocrats of the Heian Period.” History of East Asia. Np, and Web. February 21 2011. .