I. Golden Age in Heian The court (nobles living near and serving the emperor), lived in the walled off capital, Heian, during the golden age of 794-1185. Nobles lived so separate from common people that they were referred to as “dwellers among the clouds.” Had different ranks in court. Rank determined privilege and customs (color, number of folds in fans etc...) Nobles loved the arts and Heian became the center of art and learning.

II. Court Life The main idea was miyabi, appreciating the small things in life for their beauty. (ex: flowers) Those in the court (the rich) were expected to be calm, respectful and beautiful at all times. silk robes and gold jewelry. Elaborate outfits like long gowns with 12 layers of colored silk. Fans with paintings of nature

Basically Japan was a typical middle schooler! They want to be just like everyone else but still be unique.

II. Literature

Diaries were popular with men and women The Tale of Genji The world’s first novel. Written around 1,000 A.D. by Lady Murasaki. (a woman!) A long romantic story about the life of a prince. Most amazing because girls were not taught how to read and write.

Pillow Book Sei Shonagon Collection of short stories, character sketches, conversations, and description of art and nature and list.

Syllables: five, seven, five 3. Haiku A Japanese form of poetry. Always has 3 lines Syllables: five, seven, five Deep meaning, few words. That was a haiku!

III. Visual Arts Painting – bold bright color,, nature (landscape) were popular subjects. Scroll painting illistrated stories. Calligraphy – decorative writing. Architecture – modeled after Chinese capital, wooden frames curved upwards, unpainted, thatched roofs. Homes simple and airy, surrounded by gardens.

IV. Performing Arts Birth of Japanese dramas were fun and wild (included Musicians, jugglers, acrobats). Later NOH – serious drams created in 1300s with music, speaking, and dance. Tell history of Japan’s heroes.

V. Fall of Heian Ended for three reasons Wealthy owners of large estates paid no taxes, which weakened the imperial government. Law enforcement broke down, and bandits roamed the land. Struggles over land and power led to civil war and the rise of new military leaders.