# The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter

> Japanese monogatari and folktale

**Wikidata**: [Q923593](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q923593)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tale_of_the_Bamboo_Cutter)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-tale-of-the-bamboo-cutter

## Summary
*The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* is a Japanese *monogatari* (narrative tale) and *folk tale* that is part of the broader tradition of oral storytelling in Japan. It is one of several aliases for the story, which is also known as *Taketori Monogatari* or *The Tale of Princess Kaguya*. The tale is a written work intended for enjoyment or edification, with its origins tracing back to at least the 11th century.

## Key Facts
- **Classifications**: Literary work, folk tale.
- **Country of origin**: Japan.
- **Inception**: Circa 11th century (exact date uncertain).
- **Aliases**: *Taketori Monogatari*, *The Tale of Princess Kaguya*, *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter and the Moon Child*, *Tale of the Bamboo Cutter*, *Kaguyahime Monogatari*.
- **Sitelink count**: 40 (Wikipedia).
- **Related entities**: Japan (inception dates: -0660-02-11, 1890-11-29, 1947-05-03).

## FAQs
**What is the genre of *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter*?**
It is classified as both a *literary work* and a *folk tale*, reflecting its status as a traditional narrative passed down orally before being written.

**When was *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* first recorded?**
The exact date is uncertain, but it is known to have existed by the 11th century.

**How many aliases does *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* have?**
It is known by five distinct aliases, including *Taketori Monogatari* and *Kaguyahime Monogatari*.

**Is *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* a Japanese folktale?**
Yes, it is a traditional Japanese story that fits the definition of a *folk tale* as an oral or written narrative passed down through generations.

## Why It Matters
*The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* is significant as a foundational work in Japanese literature, preserving cultural traditions and moral lessons. Its survival as both an oral and written tradition highlights its role in shaping Japanese folklore. The story’s themes of transformation, heroism, and cosmic order continue to resonate in modern interpretations and adaptations.

## Notable For
- One of the earliest recorded Japanese *monogatari* tales.
- A key example of the *folk tale* genre in Japan.
- Serves as a cultural artifact reflecting 11th-century Japanese values.

## Body
### Origins and Classification
*The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* is a *literary work* and *folk tale* with roots in Japan. It is part of the broader *monogatari* tradition, which includes tales like *The Tale of the Heike* and *The Tale of Genji*. The story’s exact origins are unclear, but it is known to have existed by the 11th century, as indicated by its inclusion in early Japanese literary collections.

### Aliases and Adaptations
The tale is known by multiple names, including *Taketori Monogatari* and *Kaguyahime Monogatari*, reflecting its various versions and adaptations. These aliases suggest the story’s enduring popularity and the ways it has been retold across generations.

### Cultural Significance
As a *folk tale*, *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter* embodies the oral tradition of storytelling in Japan. Its themes of transformation and cosmic order align with broader Japanese cultural values. The story’s survival in written form demonstrates its importance as a literary work intended for both enjoyment and edification.

### Related Entities
Japan, the country of origin, has its own complex historical timeline, including key dates such as -0660-02-11, 1890-11-29, and 1947-05-03, which mark significant periods in its development. The tale’s connection to Japan underscores its role as a cultural artifact of the region.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. [The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter (Literature) - TV Tropes](https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Literature/TheTaleOfTheBambooCutter)
4. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File