This volume provides the most comprehensive treatment of the Heian
period, the golden age of the Japanese imperial court, in any
Weste language. From 794 to 1185, the Japanese emperor ruled over
an elaborate govement modeled on China's. Native Japanese
elements blended with Chinese influences in religion and the
courtly arts. The world's first novel was completed about
1020. In 1185 the elegant and peaceful world of the court was shattered by the struggle of the Taira and Minamoto warrior clans, who usurped real political power.
1020. In 1185 the elegant and peaceful world of the court was shattered by the struggle of the Taira and Minamoto warrior clans, who usurped real political power.