In “The Broom Tree”, the protagonists Genji, Tō no Chūjō and two acquaintances find themselves in a friendly debate on the various vices and virtues of court women. The story has just begun, but the narrator is already introducing the concept of the ideal woman and as the story progresses the image of the ideal man also emerges. The chapter opens with Genji and his friend in his room on a rainy day, and spotting some love letters lying around, Tō no Chūjō addresses the topic by declaring “I have finally understood how rarely you will find a flawless woman, simply perfect” (20). Genji's rejoinder with "But do you think a girl can have nothing to advise her?" (21). With these parameters set the discussion between these young people swings in different directions. Tō no Chūjō declares that the “middle-born” offer the greatest merit, but Genji points out that the distinction between these levels is arbitrary (21). The head squire assumes that proud and beautiful girls from disreputable families are the most attractive, since it is precisely because of their contrast that they arouse interest. Genji silently rejects this idea, pointing out that unusually pretty girls are hard enough to find among the higher classes, let alone the lower ones. The head squire continues with his description of the best woman (25): In the end, I suppose, [...] one should opt for someone wholly reliable, quiet and steady, provided there is nothing particularly wrong with her, and no matter the rank or appearance. Such a woman should be confident and steadfast, and should learn to accept her husband's interactions with other women as a matter of course, grateful that their marriage is based on his first feelings for her. Tō no Chūjō agrees, b... middle of paper... for me!” (116). Genji's audacity is also a source of endless anguish for Fujitsubo, who despite her love for him finds his persistence problematic. After seeing him dance, she thinks that “she would have enjoyed his dancing even more if he had not been so intrusive in her desires” (129). Genji's tireless pursuit of his first shows of love resurfaces throughout the novel, despite all the discouragement from the persecuted person himself. In a way, Fujitsubo's resistance makes her even more desirable to the hero, as his continued gestures of desire for her renew their connection. In this way, the ideal woman and the ideal man are connected but at the same time removed from the beginning of the tale, creating an undercurrent of tension that increases the depth of Genji Monogatari. Works Cited Shikibu, Murasaki. Tyler, Royall, ed. and trans. The Story of Genji. Penguin Group, New York:2001.