Love in China: Social Relationships in the 13th and 14th Centuries

Glossary definitions and references:

Theological and religious glossary list for “Love in China: Social Relationships in the 13th and 14th Centuries”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.

1) Love:
Love in the context of this text reflects the evolving attitudes towards romantic relationships in China during the 13th and 14th centuries. It highlights the contrast between passionate love and Confucian ideals that often subordinated emotion to duty, especially regarding relationships involving Women and widows. The representations of love in Yuan dynasty literature showcased varying degrees of acceptance in both spiritual and physical dimensions, indicating a transformation in societal norms. The narrative emphasizes that, despite Confucian constraints, Love often defied norms, leading to 'happy endings' for Lovers.

2) Woman (Women):
The concept of Woman within this study emphasizes the idealized image propagated by Confucianism versus the lived reality of Women in society. The narrative highlights how the ideals of fidelity and submissiveness portrayed in the literature often clashed with the desires for autonomy and love expressed by real Women of the Yuan dynasty. The representation of Woman also reflects societal pressures to adhere to strict moral codes, yet simultaneously showcases instances of rebellion against these norms in pursuit of happiness and personal fulfillment.

3) Confucianism (Confucian tradition):
Confucianism represents the philosophical underpinning of societal values during the discussed era, dictating the behaviors and aspirations of its characters. Confucianism emphasizes principles such as filial piety, chastity, and moral integrity, affecting the way love and relationships develop within the literature. As the narratives portray the struggle of characters against Confucian norms, they depict an evolving dialogue between tradition and the emerging complexities of human emotion.

4) China:
The societal context of China during the Yuan dynasty provides the backdrop for these love narratives. With the rise of Mongol rule, traditional value systems faced challenges that prompted significant cultural transformations. The literature of this period reflects an amalgamation of old values with new ideals surrounding love and family life. In exploring love during this historical context, the impact of Confucian principles on romantic relations, particularly as they pertain to the roles of Women, is significant.

5) Widow:
The status of a Widow in Confucian society is marked by strict adherence to moral expectations, which often required her to remain chaste and devoted to her deceased husband. Yuan literature portrays the complexities faced by widows, who grapple with societal pressures to conform versus their personal desires to remarry or find happiness. The discussions on Widowhood reflect the prevailing ideologies that sought to enforce the Cult of chastity while simultaneously revealing the human aspect of love transcending death and societal expectations.

6) Family:
Family is a fundamental unit within Confucianism, deeply influencing the lives of individuals, particularly Women. The narratives from the Yuan period reflect how Familial obligations prevailed over personal desires, often forcing characters to reconcile love with loyalty to family values. The institution of Family serves as both a refuge and constraint, creating obstacles for romantic entanglements in the narratives studied. The evolution of Family dynamics within literature indicates broader societal changes towards marriage and emotional connections.

7) Dynasty:
The reference to the Yuan dynasty marks a significant era in Chinese history, characterized by a blend of Mongol and traditional Han cultures, resulting in unique literary expressions about love and morality. The dramatic works from this Dynasty are seen as reflections of transitional societal norms, where the juxtaposition of traditional Confucian values with burgeoning sentiments of romantic love can be analyzed. The impacts of the Yuan dynasty are essential to understand the evolution of love and the roles of Women in this context.

8) Lute:
The Lute symbolizes not only musical beauty but also the complexity of love expressed in the Yuan operas. The Story of the Lute is emblematic of romantic narratives where music serves as a metaphor for emotional expression, facilitating connections between Lovers. The Lute represents the desire and passion underlying romantic relationships, functioning as a medium through which characters connect and experience love, reinforcing the text’s exploration of aesthetic and intimate sentiments.

9) Marriage:
Marriage is portrayed as the ultimate resolution in love stories throughout the literature, serving as a vital societal expectation rooted in Confucian values. The narratives suggest that even amid illicit love, the eventual attainment of Marriage reinstates social order and fulfills moral obligations. The concept of Marriage within these stories reflects societal norms where individual desires are ultimately subordinated to the communal expectations of Family and societal integrity.

10) Soul:
The notion of the Soul in the Yuan operas often intersects with themes of spiritual love and reincarnation, portraying profound emotional connections that transcend the physical realm. The play The Wandering Soul of the Beautiful illustrates the complexities of love, where the true essence of feelings exists even when bodily constraints hinder fulfillment. The exploration of the Soul emphasizes a spiritual dimension to love that complements the physical expressions found within the narratives.

11) Sex (Sexual):
Sexual relationships are depicted with varying degrees of acceptance in Yuan operas, illustrating a notable tension between Confucian ideals and the raw realities of human Desire. The narratives explore Sexual intimacy as a natural and sometimes celebrated aspect of life that defies traditional moral constraints. The representation of Sexual love highlights the shifting dynamics of romantic expressions during the Yuan dynasty, questioning the rigid definitions of virtue and morality established by Confucianism.

12) Merchant:
Merchants play a role in illustrating the economic shifts occurring during the Yuan dynasty, where social mobility and wealth became intertwined with love narratives. Their depiction in operas often represents the emerging significance of prosperity in romantic relationships, contrasting sharply with the Confucian ideal of love based on duty and loyalty. The stories often reflect the aspirations and struggles of Merchants in navigating societal expectations while pursuing matters of the heart.

13) Religion:
Religion is woven throughout the narratives as characters often seek solace or autonomy in Taoist or Buddhist temples, suggesting a retreat from Confucian norms. The interplay of Religion within love stories indicates how spiritual beliefs shaped personal choices and relationships, allowing characters to explore desires that conflict with societal morality. The presence of religious contexts enriches the narratives with additional layers of meaning regarding the pursuits of love and personal fulfillment.

14) Lover:
The term Lover signifies not only romantic partnerships but also the tensions surrounding autonomy and societal expectations in the relationships depicted. The narratives often illustrate the zigs and zags of Lovers who navigate the complexities of love against the backdrop of Confucian morality. Perspectives on being a Lover reflect the evolving sentiments towards romantic relationships, suggesting a longing for greater freedom and genuine connection amid societal constraints.

15) Book:
[see source text or glossary: Book]

16) Flower:
[see source text or glossary: Flower]

17) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: Pari]

18) Bamboo Grove:
The Bamboo Grove is a notable setting in Yuan operas, symbolizing a place of refuge and beauty where characters often escape societal constraints to pursue love. It reflects the naturalness of romantic desire and the pursuit of happiness amidst rigid moral expectations. The symbolism of the Bamboo Grove melds sentiment with nature, highlighting the fusion of physical and emotional explorations within the narratives.

19) Literature:
Literature from the Yuan dynasty serves as a primary source to understand the shifts in perceptions of love and morality. The operas reflect societal debates where traditional Confucian ideals intersect with new expressions of desire and identity. The role of Literature is crucial for analyzing how cultural narratives evolved, revealing humanity's ongoing struggle with personal fulfillment against social expectations.

20) Child (Children):
[see source text or glossary: Children]

21) Freedom:
Freedom emerges as an underlying theme in narratives that explore the individual desires of characters amidst the constraints of Confucian expectations. As characters seek to assert their own identities and emotional connections, their quest for Freedom symbolizes broader cultural shifts occurring during the Yuan dynasty. The varied portrayals of Freedom reflect the ongoing tension between personal aspirations and traditional moral frameworks in the context of love.

22) Gold (Golden):
[see source text or glossary: Gold]

23) Taoism (Taoist tradition, Daoist tradition, Daoism):
Taoism presents a philosophical counterpoint to Confucianism, introducing themes of naturalness and spontaneity in love. The narratives often incorporate Taoist principles, allowing characters to explore love beyond dogmatic moral frameworks. Through depictions of love infused with Taoist philosophy, the operas reflect a more liberated perspective on emotional expression and human connections, presenting love as an essential aspect of existence.

24) Grove:
[see source text or glossary: Grove]

25) Death:
Death serves as a prominent motif within the narratives that explore love and loss, influencing characters' choices and relationships. The emotional weight of Death highlights the fragility of love and the societal expectations placed on Women and Widows. The treatment of Death in these operas often illustrates the theme of enduring love that transcends mortality, mirroring the tension between personal emotion and public duty.

26) Ting:
[see source text or glossary: Ting]

27) Sentiment:
Sentiment within the literature resonates with evolving understandings of love and emotional expression, contrasting the stoic ideals of Confucianism with passionate romances. The narratives reflect a shift towards valuing emotional connections, illustrating how characters navigate their desires amidst societal restrictions. Sentiment in the Yuan operas underscores the ongoing struggle for individuality against established moral frameworks.

28) Blossom:
[see source text or glossary: Blossom]

29) Temple:
The Temple emerges as a significant refuge in the narratives, where characters escape societal constraints to engage in love. It symbolizes a space where traditional morals are relaxed, allowing for physical intimacy and emotional connections that challenge Confucian ideals. The use of the Temple setting in the literature reflects deeper explorations of love's spiritual and physical dimensions within historical contexts.

30) Desire:
Desire manifests throughout the narratives as a driving force that often contradicts Confucian ideals of duty and chastity. The expressions of Desire in Yuan literature reveal the underlying tensions characters face as they pursue love while adhering to societal expectations. Through their stories, the exploration of Desire serves as a commentary on the complexity of human relationships in the context of shifting cultural values.

31) Dream (Dreaming):
Dream symbolizes both aspiration and emotional longing within the narratives, reflecting the inner lives of characters who often find themselves at odds with societal expectations. The motif of Dream highlights the ideals of love and fulfillment that characters strive for, despite obstacles. Dreams in the context of these operas evoke the feelings of hope and uncertainty, underscoring the constant search for personal happiness amidst Confucian constraints.

32) Rain (Rainy):
[see source text or glossary: Rain]

33) Common People (Common Folk):
The narratives highlight the experiences and challenges faced by Common People during the Yuan dynasty, often emphasizing their desires for love and fulfillment amid rigid societal norms. Through the lens of Common People, the literature illustrates that the themes of love and morality transcended social classes, showcasing shared human experiences. Common People's stories are integral to understanding the shifting dynamics in Chinese love traditions during this historic era.

34) Evolution:
The Evolution of romantic sentiment is a crucial theme, tracing the transformations in attitudes toward love and morality from ancient to Yuan times. The narratives encapsulate a gradual transition from strict adherence to Confucian orthodoxy towards embracing more expressive and diverse interpretations of love. This Evolution reflects broader cultural changes in society, underscoring the interplay between tradition and emerging modern perspectives.

35) Fragrance:
[see source text or glossary: Fragrance]

36) Minister:
The Minister's role within the narratives often represents authority, imposing Confucian values that reflect societal expectations surrounding love and marriage. Characterizations of Ministers in Yuan operas portray the tension between individual desires and state morality, reinforcing the consequences faced by Lovers who defy societal norms. The figure of the Minister serves to illustrate the pervasive influence of power structures over personal relationships.

37) Obstacle:
Obstacles frequently encountered by characters in their pursuit of love serve as pivotal elements within the narratives. These obstacles are often rooted in societal constraints imposed by Confucian ethics, affecting relationships between Lovers and their desires for autonomy. The resolution of such obstacles often leads to narratives that explore themes of perseverance and eventual reconciliation in the quest for happiness.

38) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Buddhism, much like Taoism, introduces alternative moral perspectives that contrast sharply with rigid Confucian ideals. Its presence in the literature illustrates themes of compassion and emotional exploration, offering characters avenues for expressing love beyond established norms. The interplay of Buddhism within the narratives enriches the discussions on morality, desire, and the human connections that define love.

39) Refuge:
Refuge is an essential theme in the context of love narratives, serving as both physical and emotional safe havens for characters seeking to explore their desires. Whether in a Temple or a literary setting, the notion of Refuge becomes synonymous with freedom from societal constraints, where love can flourish unencumbered. This theme emphasizes the pursuit of happiness amidst rigid social structures.

40) Power:
Power dynamics in relationships reflect the broader societal structure within the narratives, particularly in how familial and societal authorities shape characters' romantic aspirations. The influence of Power often manifests in the interactions between Lovers, where social standings and obligations dictate emotional outcomes. The narratives provide insight into how Power affects individual choices regarding love and relationships throughout the Yuan period.

41) Cult:
The Cult of the virtuous Woman is a central theme in the literature, illustrating the societal need to uphold ideals of chastity and obedience. This Cult emphasizes the adherence to Confucian values while simultaneously showcasing the internal struggles faced by Women in realizing their desires. The tension within the Cult serves as a lens through which evolving attitudes towards love and relationships can be analyzed.

42) Qian:
[see source text or glossary: Qian]

43) Young girl:
The role of the Young girl within the narratives portrays her as a symbol of potential and desire, often caught between societal expectations and personal aspirations. The representation of the Young girl emphasizes the tension between innocence and burgeoning sexuality, highlighting the conflicts women face within the constraints of Confucian morality. The stories focus on the growth and transformation of the Young girl as she navigates her relationships and identity.

44) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation narratives reflect the evolving understanding of love and the roles of Women amidst societal pressures. Through character arcs, the theme of Transformation reveals how individuals adapt their desires and identities in response to shifting cultural values. This theme illustrates the journey towards achieving self-fulfillment and redefining romantic relationships through the lens of historical change.

45) Reflection:
Reflection serves as an important narrative device, allowing characters to introspectively engage with their experiences of love and obligation. The act of Reflection highlights internal conflicts related to desire and morality, revealing deeper psychological dimensions of romantic relationships. This theme emphasizes the need for characters to reconcile their feelings with societal values, thus enhancing the complexity of the love stories.

46) Indulging:
[see source text or glossary: Indulging]

47) Happiness:
Happiness emerges as a central pursuit within love narratives, often contrasting with the sacrifices imposed by Confucian ideals. Characters' quests for happiness reveal the ongoing struggle between duty and emotion, highlighting the complexity of romantic connections. The pursuit of Happiness is depicted as a multidimensional experience, suggesting that true fulfillment often requires navigating societal constraints.

48) Spiritual:
Spiritual overtones are present throughout the love narratives, emphasizing the inner dimensions of desire and emotional connection that transcend physical expressions. The representation of Spiritual love highlights the search for authenticity in relationships against the backdrop of Confucian values. This motif enriches the narrative landscape by adding layers of meaning regarding profound human connections.

49) Feeling:
Feeling emerges as a significant theme, encapsulating the emotional dynamics of characters as they navigate love amidst societal norms. The exploration of Feeling reflects the tension between personal desires and Confucian expectations, illustrating the struggles individuals face in reconciling their emotions with established moral codes. This theme highlights the passionate and complex nature of love experienced by the characters.

50) Hundred:
[see source text or glossary: Hundred]

51) Worship:
Worship of the virtuous Woman illustrates the societal need to uphold Confucian ideals while simultaneously highlighting the internal conflicts experienced by Women. The notion of Worship reflects the tension between admiration for moral rectitude and personal desires for freedom and happiness. This juxtaposition emphasizes the struggles individuals face in adhering to societal standards amidst evolving relationship dynamics.

52) Passion:
Passion is a recurring theme in Yuan operas, illustrating the intensity of love and desire that often contradicts Confucian moral codes. This theme highlights the capacity for emotional connection alongside the constraints of social duty, illustrating the complexities of being a Lover in this context. The portrayal of Passion underscores the transformative power of romantic love amidst stringent societal expectations.

53) Prayer:
[see source text or glossary: Prayer]

54) Hunger:
[see source text or glossary: Hunger]

55) Praise:
[see source text or glossary: Praise]

56) Valley:
[see source text or glossary: Valley]

57) Doubt:
[see source text or glossary: Doubt]

58) Heart:
Heart serves as a metaphorical representation of deep emotional connections within the narratives, facilitating an exploration of inner sentiments amidst societal expectations. The portrayal of Heart emphasizes the dichotomy of romantic desire versus Confucian duty, illustrating how characters wrestle with their feelings. This theme showcases the tender and often conflicting emotional landscapes navigated by individuals in search of love.

59) River:
The River often symbolizes the flow of emotions and relationships within the narratives, reflecting the continuous changes in love and societal expectations. It serves as a metaphor for navigating the currents of desire amidst the constraints imposed by traditional values. The representation of the River in Yuan literature emphasizes the complexities that arise as characters seek connection and fulfillment within a changing societal landscape.

60) Green:
[see source text or glossary: Green]

61) Flesh:
Flesh symbolizes the physical aspect of love explored in the narratives, often positioned against the backdrop of traditional values that prioritize duty and chastity. The exploration of Flesh within these stories underscores the importance of physical intimacy and desire in romantic connections, highlighting the complexities of navigating societal expectations. This theme illustrates the intimate journey characters undergo in reconciling their physical desires with established moral norms.

62) Matam:
The figure of the Madam is essential in exploring the themes of sexuality and autonomy within the context of courtesan relationships. The Madam character often embodies the societal pressures surrounding love, influencing the dynamics between Lovers and the obstacles they face. Through the lens of the Madam, the narratives reflect societal attitudes towards Women and challenge established norms regarding desire and romantic fulfillment.

63) Tunic:
[see source text or glossary: Tunic]

64) Anti (Amti):
The term Anti is used to describe the conflicting ideals present within the narratives, particularly in relation to Confucian values. The characters often embody both traditional and progressive notions of love, illustrating the tension between adherence to duty and the pursuit of personal happiness. The Anti motifs reflect the evolving cultural attitudes towards love recorded in the Yuan operas, serving as a commentary on societal evolution.

65) Sima (Shima):
The reference to Sima reflects the historical narratives in Chinese literature where love often transcends societal constraints. The story of Sima Xiangru and Zhuo Wenjun exemplifies unorthodox love that defies Confucian expectations, highlighting the complexities of romantic relationships. The character of Sima represents the yearning for autonomy in love, illustrating broader themes within the Yuan narratives.

66) Silk:
[see source text or glossary: Silk]

67) Camp:
[see source text or glossary: Camp]

68) Davi:
[see source text or glossary: Davi]

69) Cold:
[see source text or glossary: Cold]

70) Three Studies:
[see source text or glossary: Three Studies]

71) Roman Empire:
[see source text or glossary: Roman Empire]

72) Love-making (Making love, Lovemaking):
[see source text or glossary: Making love]

73) Young wife:
The Young wife symbolizes loyalty and adherence to Confucian values, often facing challenges posed by societal expectations and personal desires. Within the narratives, the portrayal of the Young wife emphasizes her struggles to uphold familial duty while navigating romantic relationships. The theme centers on the tension between marital obligations and emotional fulfillment, illuminating the roles imposed upon Women in the context of love.

74) Young men (Young man):
The Young man often embodies aspiration and agency within love narratives, representing the pursuit of social mobility through personal connections. His character reflects the journey of reconciling desires with societal norms, illustrating the complexities faced by young men in seeking love amidst Confucian expectations. The Young man's experiences in the narratives emphasize the transformative role of romance in shaping individual identities.

75) Civilization:
Civilization refers to the broader cultural context of the Yuan dynasty, characterized by the interplay of traditional Confucian ideals with emerging themes of love and passion. The evolution of romance depicted within literary works reflects the complexity of societal changes influencing personal relationships. In exploring love during this period, Civilization illuminates the ongoing negotiation of values and aspirations that define human connection.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 136]