The Tale of the Heike

An anonymous Japanese epic compiled around the 13th century, chronicling the Genpei War (1180–1185) between the Taira (Heike) and Minamoto (Genji) clans. Performed by blind lute-playing monks, it blends historical narrative with Buddhist themes of impermanence, recounting the Taira’s rise and tragic fall. Its poetic style, vivid battle scenes, and reflections on fate and loyalty make it a cornerstone of Japanese literature, influencing later works like Noh plays.