The Sad Truth About Footbinding

Summary

This video delves into the historical practice of foot binding in China, a tradition that reshaped young girls' feet into small, curved shapes to signify status and beauty. Originating from a 10th-century court dancer's influence, foot binding became a painful norm, leading to severe health issues and societal pressures for women. Despite efforts from Western missionaries and Chinese feminists to abolish the practice, it persisted until the mid-20th century, influenced by social and economic factors. Ultimately, the Communist government outlawed foot binding, marking a significant shift in women's roles and societal expectations in China.

Takeaways

• 👣 Footbinding was a traditional Chinese practice of altering young girls' feet to achieve a desirable small size, symbolizing beauty and refinement.
• 🎭 The custom began in the 10th century, inspired by a court dancer named Yeonyan, who impressed the emperor with her uniquely shaped feet.
• 💔 Footbinding caused significant health issues for women, including infections, gangrene, and extreme pain due to the binding process.
• 💍 Smaller feet became a status symbol in society, increasing a girl's marriage prospects and enhancing family status among the elite.
• 👧 The footbinding process typically started around the age of five or six, involving painful breaking and binding of the toes to create a triangular shape.
• 😨 Unbound feet were viewed as unattractive, leading to social ridicule and limited marriage opportunities for women.
• 🔒 Footbinding restricted women's mobility, making it difficult for them to escape abusive situations or seek independence.
• 🌍 Western missionaries and Chinese feminists played a crucial role in advocating against footbinding in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• 📜 The practice was officially banned by the People's Republic of China in 1949, recognizing its detrimental impact on women's status and rights.
• 🌸 Despite its brutal nature, footbinding symbolizes resilience and the hope for a better future among women in Chinese society.

Q & A

What was the primary purpose of foot binding in China?

Foot binding aimed to alter young girls' feet to conform to a beauty standard that valued small feet, which were seen as a status symbol among the elite.

Who is credited with inspiring the practice of foot binding?

The practice of foot binding was allegedly inspired by a 10th-century court dancer named Yeonyan, who bound her feet to create a unique and appealing appearance.

When did foot binding officially begin in China?

Foot binding is believed to have started in the Song Dynasty, which lasted from 960 to 1279 CE, though some legends suggest it began during the Shang Dynasty.

What was the ideal foot size that represented a desirable bride?

The most desirable bride was expected to have a foot size of about three inches, known as a 'Golden Lotus.'

How was foot binding physically achieved?

Foot binding involved soaking the girl's feet in hot water, clipping the toenails, breaking all toes except the big toe, and binding the feet with silk strips to reshape them.

What were some health consequences of foot binding?

The practice led to severe health issues, including infections, gangrene, and chronic pain, due to the extreme tightness and trauma inflicted on the feet.

Why did foot binding persist for so long in Chinese society?

Foot binding persisted due to societal pressure, as unbound feet were considered unattractive, and small feet increased a girl's chances of marrying well, which could elevate her family's status.

What cultural practices surrounded the women who had bound feet?

Women with bound feet often gathered to create and sew their shoes, which were a significant fashion statement, and some even engaged in peculiar habits like drinking water that had washed the feet.

What ultimately led to the decline and eventual banning of foot binding?

Western missionaries, Chinese feminists, and changing societal values contributed to the decline of foot binding, culminating in bans by the Republic of China and later by the People's Republic of China.

How did foot binding reflect broader societal attitudes toward women?

Foot binding symbolized the oppression and objectification of women in Chinese society, reflecting ideals of beauty that prioritized their physical appearance over their well-being and autonomy.