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Lady Murasaki Shikibu was a Japanese writer and lady-in-waiting who lived during the Heian period of medieval Japan (794-1185). She is best known for writing "The Tale of Genji," which is considered one of the greatest works of Japanese literature and the world's first novel. The tale is an intimate portrayal of courtly life in 11th-century Japan, and is renowned for its psychological depth, detailed descriptions of courtly rituals and ceremonies, and its portrayal of women. Lady Murasaki's writing had a profound impact on Japanese literature and culture, and she is regarded as a major literary figure in Japan's history.