Palace Secrets: The Hidden Etiquette of Concubines Waiting for the Emperors Favor in the Qing Dynasty
2024-04-29 16:33:00 中文版

In the court life of ancient China, the private life of the emperor was always full of mystery. Among them, the custom of concubines attending the emperor in bed was particularly intriguing. According to historical records, during the Qing Dynasty, there was a special ritual for concubines when attending the emperor in bed: they needed to be wrapped in a quilt. The reason and significance behind this were quite complex.

Firstly, this custom reflected the hierarchical system and etiquette norms in the court. In the Qing Dynasty, the emperor was supreme, while the status of concubines was relatively low. The practice of wrapping in a quilt was designed to show the emperor's dignity and the concubines' humility on one hand, and to maintain the emperor's prestige and the concubines' decorum on the other. In this ritual, the concubines were wrapped tightly, symbolizing their fragility and obedience in front of the emperor.

Secondly, this practice was also related to the moral concepts of the time. In Qing society, female chastity was regarded as an extremely important virtue. Wrapping in a quilt could maximize the protection of the concubines' reputation and avoid any situation that might cause controversy. At the same time, it was also a constraint on the emperor's conduct, reminding him to maintain restraint and moderation when enjoying the attendance of his concubines.

In addition, this custom also had certain practicality. In cold seasons, wrapping in a quilt could provide additional warmth for the concubines. While in summer, although it might seem superfluous, it could also serve as a psychological comfort, making the concubines feel more at ease and comfortable when facing the emperor.

However, over time, this custom gradually lost its original meaning. By the late Qing Dynasty, with social changes and the liberation of thought, the practice of wrapping in a quilt when attending the emperor in bed was no longer strictly enforced. Instead, more humane and equal ways of interacting emerged.

Today, when we look back at this historical phenomenon, we cannot help but marvel at the rigor and complexity of court life in that era. Although the custom of wrapping in a quilt when attending the emperor in bed may seem somewhat absurd today, it was a direct reflection of the culture and values of that time. By understanding these historical details, we can gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics of Qing society, as well as the lifestyles and ideological concepts of people in that era.

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