Hidden Scorn: A New Look at Footbinding

**Hidden Scorn: A New Look at Footbinding** unveils the untold stories and complexities of footbinding, an ancient Chinese practice that shaped the lives of countless women for centuries. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional narratives and offers fresh perspectives on this controversial tradition.

Footbinding originated in the imperial courts of the Song dynasty as a symbol of beauty and refinement. As it spread throughout society, it became a marker of social status, a means of controlling women’s mobility and sexuality, and a defining feature of Chinese womanhood. Yet, beneath the surface, footbinding concealed a world of pain, suffering, and resistance.

**Hidden Scorn** delves into the physical and emotional consequences of footbinding, revealing the excruciating agony endured by women as their feet were forcibly contorted into unnatural shapes. The tightly bound feet, often no longer than three inches long, became deformed and crippled, leading to a lifetime of pain, infection, and disability. The psychological toll was equally devastating, as women were denied basic freedoms and opportunities, confined to domestic spheres and subjected to patriarchal norms.

Despite its oppressive nature, footbinding persisted for centuries, deeply embedded in Chinese culture and tradition. It was not until the late 19th century that a movement to end footbinding gained momentum, driven by reformers, missionaries, and progressive thinkers. This movement faced fierce resistance from traditionalists who saw footbinding as an integral part of Chinese identity.

The struggle to eradicate footbinding was long and arduous, but eventually, the practice was outlawed in the early 20th century. However, its legacy continues to resonate in contemporary China, where the scars of footbinding are still visible in the lives of elderly women who endured this cruel practice.

**Hidden Scorn** offers a comprehensive exploration of footbinding’s history, cultural significance, and lasting impact. It draws on a wealth of sources, including historical records, medical texts, literature, and personal accounts, to provide a nuanced understanding of this complex phenomenon. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in Chinese history, women’s studies, or the intersection of culture, gender, and power.

If you like this book, write a review!

Click here to read a free extract of this book! 

Publisher ‏: ‎ PageBook24.com (January 13, 2025)
Language : ‎ English
Dimensions ‏: ‎ 6 x 9 inches
Pages ‏: ‎ 176 pages

Pasquale De Marco stands as a prolific author whose literary prowess knows no bounds. With a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, he has made a name for himself as a versatile writer with the extraordinary ability to captivate readers across diverse literary landscapes. His journey as an author is marked by an insatiable curiosity, a love for the written word, and a relentless commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences with the world.

Pasquale De Marco collaborates with a dedicated team of ghostreaders who assist him in evaluating and editing the manuscripts. His collaborators are not only skilled professionals but also avid readers who purchase and read books as a personal hobby. This unique blend of creativity allows Pasquale to push the boundaries of traditional publishing, making literature more accessible and diverse.