It is very interesting to note exactly what pieces stand the test of time, and in this instance it definitely seems like the winners get to write the history books. The worlds first novel and it recounts the day-to-day events of the super upper class, and not so much on the average person (except maybe Murasaki). Also intriguing is the fact that this is one of the first recorded instances of publicized drama. While I do believe that this piece is important because of its age, I do not necessarily believe that it should be preserved for future generations. I feel as if the lesson within The Tale of Genji is not relate-able to most, and better conveyed through other works. Do you think that the average person had access to this work during the period of its conception? Or was it reserved for the elite?