Ochikubo Monogatari

Ochikubo Monogatari was written during the later part of the 10th century by an unknown author. It is known as the oldest remaining tale in Japanese literature to include harassment and bullying from a stepmother. Ochikubo Monogatari's well-formed plot and vivid description of characters influenced many writers such as Murasaki Shikibu, author of The Tale of Genji. The lively dialogues are also of particular quality.

The Princess Ochikubo after suffering from relentless harassment from her stepmother meets a man named Michiyori who is a general. The two marry and Princess Ochikubo lives very happily with him, and with his permission seeks revenge for her abuse from her stepmother.