The Age of Concubines in Ancient China

Historical Development#

In the early days of Chinese civilization, records are scarce, but it's believed that concubinage was a practice among the elite. Young girls, sometimes as young as 13 - 15 years old, were likely taken as concubines. These early concubines served to enhance the family's status and provide additional heirs.

During the long span of imperial rule, the practice became more institutionalized. In the Han Dynasty, concubines in the imperial palace were often selected from young women of good - looking appearance and proper upbringing, usually in their mid - teens. As time went on, especially in the Tang Dynasty, which was known for its relatively open - minded culture, concubinage was still prevalent, and the age of concubines remained in the younger range. By the Qing Dynasty, the selection of concubines for the imperial court followed strict regulations, and the girls were typically between 13 and 17 years old.

Concubinage was closely tied to the hierarchical social structure in ancient China. The practice was mainly among the wealthy and the ruling class. Concubines were seen as secondary wives, with a lower status compared to the principal wife. Their youth was often seen as a symbol of fertility and beauty, which were highly valued in a society that placed great importance on family lineage.

Concubinage was an extension of traditional marriage practices. A man could take concubines in addition to his main wife to ensure the continuation of the family line. The age of the concubines was influenced by these customs, as young girls were considered more likely to bear children.

Laws in different dynasties regulated concubinage to some extent. For example, in some periods, there were restrictions on the number of concubines a man could have based on his social status. However, there were no strict laws regarding the minimum age of concubines, which allowed the practice of taking young girls as concubines to continue.

Emperor Xuanzong was known for his many concubines. His relationship with Yang Yuhuan, who entered the palace as a concubine - like figure, is one of the most famous stories in Chinese history. Yang Yuhuan was in her twenties when she became involved with the emperor, which was a bit older compared to the typical age of concubines, but her case shows the power and influence that a concubine could have in the imperial court.

The strict system of selecting concubines in the Qing Dynasty was a significant event. The "Imperial Consort Selection" process involved a detailed examination of young girls from specific social backgrounds. This event showcases how the imperial court institutionalized the practice of taking young concubines.

In ancient Rome, concubinage was also present, but the age and status of concubines were different. Roman concubines were often slaves or freedwomen, and there was less emphasis on their youth for the purpose of bearing legitimate heirs compared to ancient China. In ancient India, the practice of having multiple wives and concubines was also common among the upper classes, but the cultural and religious context influenced the selection and status of these women differently. For example, in some Indian traditions, the role of a woman in a polygamous household was more closely tied to religious duties and caste.

The practice of concubinage and the age of concubines in ancient China had a long - lasting impact on Chinese culture. It influenced gender roles and the perception of women for centuries. Even after the end of the imperial era, the concept of concubinage and the submissive role of women associated with it took time to change. Today, it serves as a reminder of the historical oppression of women and the importance of gender equality.
In literature and art, stories of concubines have been a popular theme, providing insights into the emotions and experiences of these women in a patriarchal society.

Readers interested in going deeper into this topic could explore the daily lives of concubines in different dynasties. They could also study the legal and social changes that gradually led to the decline of concubinage in modern China. Additionally, comparing the experiences of concubines in different regions of China, such as the north and the south, could provide more in - depth understanding.

Ebrey, Patricia Buckley. The Inner Quarters: Marriage and the Lives of Chinese Women in the Sung Period. University of California Press, 1993.
Chow, Rey. Woman and Chinese Modernity: The Politics of Reading between East and West. University of Minnesota Press, 1991.