Describe the developments and shifts in the role of women in China and Western Europe between 600 and 1450 C.E.
Describe the developments and shifts in the role of women in China and Western Europe between 600 and 1450 C.E.
(sorry i missed type shift)
These sites may help you.
http://chinese-history.suite101.com/article.cfm/womens_status_in_medieval_china
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To describe the developments and shifts in the role of women in China and Western Europe between 600 and 1450 C.E., we can examine various historical sources, including scholarly articles, primary documents, and books. These sources will provide us with an understanding of ongoing changes during this time period.
To begin, we can consider the social, political, and cultural factors that influenced the role of women in China during this period. Chinese society at the time was primarily influenced by Confucianism, which emphasized the patriarchal family structure and the subordination of women to men. This ideology placed a strong emphasis on filial piety and the preservation of traditional gender roles. While women had varying levels of agency depending on their social status, they were generally expected to fulfill domestic duties, such as marriage, childbearing, and managing the household.
However, it is essential to note that these societal norms were not stagnant, and changes did occur over time. For instance, the Tang Dynasty (618-907 C.E.) saw a greater degree of social mobility and opportunities for women. Elite women, such as Empress Wu Zetian, held considerable political power, and Tang society witnessed a flourishing of female poets and writers. Nonetheless, by the Song Dynasty (960-1279 C.E.), the influence of Confucianism intensified, leading to stricter restrictions on women's lives.
Turning to Western Europe, the role of women during this period was also influenced by a combination of religious, social, and political factors. Christianity played a significant role, with the Church's teachings reinforcing a patriarchal society. The Church regarded women as subordinate to men, highlighting notions of Eve's temptation and the need to uphold moral purity. However, like in China, this ideology was not followed uniformly, and different regions and time periods witnessed varying degrees of female agency.
During the early Middle Ages, women in Europe had more prominent roles compared to later periods. Women could inherit property, engage in trade, and exercise some political power. This was particularly true in regions such as Anglo-Saxon England, where women like Queen Aethelflaed of Mercia played crucial leadership roles. However, as Europe transitioned to feudalism and the centralization of power, women's roles became increasingly confined to the domestic sphere.
It is worth noting that our understanding of these developments is continually evolving as historians and researchers uncover new evidence and interpretations. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the topic, it is advisable to consult a range of sources that provide detailed analysis of primary documents, scholarly articles, and books specific to the time periods and regions of interest.