33rd Annual Student Research Conference
The Changing Role of Women in Modern China and its Effects on Marriage
Michael J. Reeves*, Songyi Chen, Shane Roberston, Weicheng Huang, and Yancheng Zhao
Gregory Richter and Dr. Zhijun Wen, Faculty Mentors
The traditional roles of men and women over two thousand years of Confucian teachings have changed since the creation of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Modern Chinese law guarantees the equality of women and their rights to fully participate in Chinese society. Our research uses films directed by Zhang Yimou as a starting point. For example, Red Sorghum and Raise the Red Lantern, which depict different roles for women in film, illustrate how these roles conflict for the traditional woman vs. the educated Chinese woman. Further, how have these changes been reflected in Chinese society? Our research demonstrates that these changes have resulted in an instability of relationships. Consequences of this instability are reflected as new social problems, suggesting that enlightenment of Chinese society has not kept pace with China’s rapid economic advancement. Our study explores these changes and the consequences for marriage and the family in modern China.
Keywords: People's Republic of China, Confucian traditions, modern Chinese marital roles, educated Chinese women, Chinese women's rights, family roles
Topic(s):Chinese
Women's and Gender Studies
Asian Studies
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA