With the Empress Dowager of China · Chapter
XXVI: Some Social Customs—Manchu and Chinese explained
This chapter explores the social customs and family structures of the Manchu and Chinese peoples, focusing on the elevated status of unmarried Manchu women, the presentation of brides at court, the roles of secondary wives, and the distinct
What happens
This chapter explores the social customs and family structures of the Manchu and Chinese peoples, focusing on the elevated status of unmarried Manchu women, the presentation of brides at court, the roles of secondary wives, and the distinct cultural practices that differentiate the Manchus from the Chinese.
Themes in this chapter
Gender and Women's Roles
The chapter details the unique status of Manchu women, including unmarried daughters' legal rights and the roles of secondary wives.
Cultural Identity and Tradition
Contrasts Manchu and Chinese customs, such as the treatment of daughters and the practice of polygamy, revealing deep cultural differences.
Observation and Interpretation
Katherine Carl provides an outsider's perspective on these customs, interpreting them for a Western audience.
Characters to notice
- Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi
Hosts brides at court, receives their obeisances, and shows favor to the widow of Grand Secretary Yung Lu.
- Katherine A. Carl
Observes and describes the social customs, including the presentation of brides and the status of Manchu women.
- Emperor Kwang-Hsu
Mentioned as having two wives, with the first wife being the stronger character.
- Prince Ching
His wives and daughters are frequent visitors to the Palace.
- Grand Secretary Yung Lu
His widow is a frequent visitor, receiving special marks of favor from the Empress Dowager.
- Prince Ch'un
His wife is a stepdaughter of Yung Lu's widow, and their son might be the next heir to the Throne.
Key passages
“The unmarried Manchu girl has not only this liberty in her family, but she has more liberty in the outside world than any other Oriental woman.”
Unmarried Manchu women enjoy greater freedom both at home and in society than any other women in the East.
Highlights the exceptional social position of Manchu women.
“The Chinese look upon a daughter, at her birth, as a misfortune, one of the ills that must be endured, and while loving her individually, a daughter is not welcomed into the family nor allowed the privileges of a son.”
In Chinese culture, the birth of a daughter is seen as a burden, and daughters are not given the same rights as sons.
Contrasts Chinese and Manchu attitudes toward daughters.
“The Emperor of China has no 'harem,' but he may have as many wives as he wishes.”
The Chinese Emperor is not restricted to a harem, but he can take multiple wives.
Clarifies the nature of imperial polygamy in China.