With the Empress Dowager of China · Chapter
XI: Some Characteristics of Her Majesty—Second Visit to the Sea Palace explained
The narrator describes her second visit to the Sea Palace, detailing the Hall of the Mongolian Princes and the Dragon Wall.
What happens
The narrator describes her second visit to the Sea Palace, detailing the Hall of the Mongolian Princes and the Dragon Wall. She reflects on the Empress Dowager's multifaceted personality, her impartiality, and the reverence she commands. The chapter also covers a rainy promenade where the Empress Dowager inspects gourds, showing her love for nature and her determination.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Governance
The Empress Dowager's ability to switch between state affairs and personal pleasures highlights her political acumen and authority.
Observation and Interpretation
The narrator's detailed observations of the Empress Dowager's character and palace life provide an interpretive lens on Chinese royalty.
Cultural Identity and Tradition
The description of the Dragon Wall, gourds, and palace customs reflects deep-rooted Chinese traditions and beliefs.
Characters to notice
- Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi
Shows her statesmanship and childlike interests, her love of rain and gourds, and her titles 'Lao-Fo-yeh' and 'Lao-Tzu-Tzung'.
- Katherine A. Carl
Narrator and observer, fascinated by the Empress Dowager, learning to use chopsticks, and participating in palace life.
- Emperor Kwang-Hsu
Mentioned as residing in the palace, but not directly present in this chapter.
- Emperor Hsien-Feng
Historical reference to his decision to enlarge the Sea Palace enclosure.
Key passages
“C’est le seul homme de la Chine”
A Frenchman called her the only man in China, meaning she had superior intelligence and executive ability.
Highlights the Empress Dowager's exceptional leadership qualities.
“The beautiful color lent an added zest to the delicious fruit.”
She appreciated the aesthetic appeal of the grapes, which enhanced her enjoyment of them.
Shows her appreciation for beauty in everyday things.
“It is better to be sitting than standing”
Even though sitting in the rain was uncomfortable, it was preferable to standing.
Reflects the ladies' relief when they could sit again.