Literature has always reflected the perceptions, ideals, and environment of its authors; Japanese waka and prose during Japan's transition from the "classical" Heian period (794-1185) to a more turbulent medieval period (1100-1500) provide a fascinating window into this cultural metamorphosis. Japan was irrevocably changed during this period, both politically and ideologically, and Japanese literature followed suit. Several characteristics of Japan's "classical" Heian period were the introduction and sophistication of several schools of Buddhism, literature focused on court life and associated intrigues, and a fascination with Chinese culture and its emulation . Japan's political landscape was relatively stable during this period; there were several upheavals, but power rested solely in the hands of the court nobles. There was very little class mobility and power came from birth rather than the threat of violence. The introduction of the medieval period dramatically changed this rather benevolent situation with the rise of the samurai warrior class and the fall of Japan's aristocratic class and the power they held. Power was now determined by blade and fire rather than birth. During the medieval period, Japan was subject to frequent wars, not to mention a series of devastating natural disasters; both factors contributed to a slight religious movement and interest in alternative schools of Buddhism emphasizing asceticism. The Japanese people lived in a much harsher world than during the Heian period, and this was evident in their writings. The Heian period was a very complex period for Japanese literature; Japanese poets and authors not only developed their own kana writing system, but also began to explore different changes and innovations in medieval literature and, like the Heian period, they were created by the social situations of the era. Court life has not disappeared; but it has now been modified and populated by samurai. Works Cited History of Bushido. History of Bushido. 2009. June 19, 2011. Encyclopedia Britannica. Japanese philosophy: the medieval period. 2010. June 19, 2011. Huey, Robert N. “The Medievalization of Poetic Practice.” Harvard Journal of Asian Studies (1990). Keene, Donald. Anthology of Japanese literature. Grove Press Inc., 1955. Tyler, Royall (Murasaki Shikibu). The Tale of Genji. Penguin Classics, 2006. Watson, Burton. The Tales of the Heike. New York: Columbia University Press, 2006.