Here at SexyMandarin, we love to talk about China, women, and the wonderful combination of both… Dating back to 7th Century China however, was one female who became one of the most powerful and influential women in Chinese political history – Shangguan Wan’er.
Newly discovered artifacts of horse rider sculptures within an underground Xianyang tomb site (Shaanxi Province) have been making news headlines across world today, with epitaph evidence now determining that this in fact the badly damaged grave site of the famed female politician… but why was the site so badly damaged? …and why is the body missing?
It’s time to sit back, put your feet up and enjoy your bowl of cornflakes this Saturday morning, as today’s SexyMandarin Blog will be answering the global question on everyone’s lips:
Who was Shangguan Wan’er?
Source: www.globaltimes.cn
Shangguan Wan’er was a women historically famed for a life entailing slavery, poetry, political redemption and a tragic end of being beheaded. Shangguan Wan’er was a poet, writer and politician during the Empress Wu Zetian political era, earning herself the title of “female prime minister” as secretary. Wan’er was also an imperial concubine to Emperor Zhongzong (Jieyu 婕妤), and perhaps in more scandalous news married Empress Wu Zetian’s son, whilst at the same time developing relationships with Empress Wu’s nephew and Emperor Zhongzong’s cousin Wu Sansi (the Prince of Liang).
According to historical accounts, Wan’er was forced into slavery at a young age due to both her father and grandfather opposing the reign of Empress Wu Zetian; both men were killed as a result. Whilst a slave however, Wan’er’s mother taught her how to read and write. Wan’er developed a talent for words and as a result became a skillful writer and poet. Wan’er captivated Empress Wu Zetian’s attention with her beautiful poetry, and as a result was released from slavery and given the position as secretary within the Empress’s cabinet.
Source: www.chinesetimeschool.com
Accusations were made however as word circulated of Wan’er being involved with a coup who were against Empress Wu Zetian, which spelled the end for Wan’er both in politics and ultimately her life. Years later following her death, Emperor Li Dan posthumously returned to Wan’er the title of Zhaorong, and was given the name Wenhui – which literally translates to “civil” or “benevolent“.
What’s your opinion on the news story? What are your theories on why the grave site was so badly damaged, and why is the body of Shangguan Wan’er missing? Leave your comments below.
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