What is the author's style in The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu?

The Tale of Genji does not meet many of the classical requirements of an epic. Merriam-Webster's Encyclopedia of Literature defines epic as, "Long narrative poem in an elevated style that celebrates heroic achievement and treats themes of historical, national, religious or legendary signifi-cance." It goes on to report, "The main aspects of epic convention are the centrality of a hero, sometimes semi divine, of military, national, or religious importance; an extensive, perhaps even cosmic, geographical setting; heroic battle; extended and often exotic journeying; and the involvement of supernatural beings, such as gods, angels, or demons, in the action."

The Tale of Genji is written in prose, not verse. The hero and the setting are completely mortal, more realistic than cosmic. It is a time of peace and tranquility.

The quintessential epic tales, such as Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, tell of great war heroes. Genji never brandishes a weapon, nor does he ever receive notice for his bravery. Rather, Genji distinguishes himself in love. His self-exile to Suma fits into the epic mold: the hero goes abroad, where he confronts and passes a series of potentially fatal tests. His hero status is achieved through national recognition of his talents in arts, manners, and beauty.