What Is The Pillow Book Of Sei Shonagon?
The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon is a published diary of Sei Shonagon who was a court lady in tenth century Japan. She lived during the height of the Heian period, and wrote a Pillow Book or diary in her leisure. Her place within the palace was as a lady-in-waiting for the Court of the Empress. Modern knowledge f her life is based mainly upon her diary, and her movements after her court service remain a mystery though much speculation is made. The book is infamous for providing an invaluable insight into the life of a lady-in-waiting during this period. It makes continuous reference and gives details on the surroundings such as in the Shrines and Flowering Trees sections. Cultural events are revealed in sections such as The Role Call of The Senior Courtiers. The book famously contains lists such as Things That Give a Pathetic Impression, Hateful Things and Things That One Is in a Hurry to See or Hear. These give an insight into the role, treatment and thoughts of the Heian court lady.
