Empire Nine Heavens

Author: Zhu Ziyuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-10-01
Features: This book follows the principle of focusing on the recent and omitting the distant, using abundant and detailed materials and fluent, vivid language to discuss the operation and evolution of the Chinese imperial harem system. It systematically examines and analyzes the harem system from the Three Dynasties to the Ming and Qing dynasties, spanning over four thousand years. The content covers the selection and establishment of imperial consorts in each dynasty, the criteria for emperors' marriages, the titles, ranks, and salaries of concubines, the establishment of female officials, and the functions of harem management institutions. It also includes the ceremonial systems of daily life in the harem, such as transportation, ceremonial vehicles, and diet, as well as rituals related to marriage, enthronement, funerals, and posthumous titles. Additionally, it provides thorough discussions on the origins and fates of imperial consorts and palace maids, the mysterious and intricate behind-the-scenes politics within the palace, and the struggles for favor and power among imperial consorts. The content nearly covers all major issues in the imperial harem. The author recognizes and grasps the essence and development patterns of the harem system from the perspective of the history of ancient Chinese political institutions and the characteristics of imperial power politics. It closely links the harem system with the autocratic monarchical political system of integrating the family and the state for analysis, hoping to summarize the impact of harem politics on the rise and fall of feudal dynasties, thereby inspiring readers to make more rational considerations when engaging with "palace culture."