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Fragments of a Golden Dream, Curated in Ink and Object

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Fragments of a Golden Dream, Curated in Ink and Object

[Essay] Virtuous Wife

Old Shanghai Curators, 2025-12-03

From 玲瓏/Ling long, Issue 027 (1930s Shanghai)


Type: Essay

Summary: The text discusses the societal expectations for women to be virtuous and self-sacrificing within marriage, contrasting these ideals with the often oppressive realities faced by wives. It critiques the pressures placed on women to conform to these roles while questioning the true essence of a ‘virtuous wife.’

Virtuous Wife

(Original Title: 賢妻)

In this world bustling with daily troubles, one can find solace in a household saturated with harmony and joy. Aspiring to join such a refined family, complete with three obedient daughters, who wouldn’t be enchanted by such bliss? Yet, even amongst apparent bliss, the burdens of a wife can be immense. Men may underestimate this by inflicting emotional harm, seeing it as a show of power. But this article humorously points out that men possibly resort to such actions as a way to momentarily lift burdens from themselves.

Consider the ‘virtuous wife,’ who, despite the facade of dignity and strength, often bears the weight of personal sacrifice. She becomes a symbol of silent endurance, and many might envy her perceived serenity. However, it begs the question: what truly defines a ‘virtuous wife’? Must she forever remain compliant, suppressing her desires and individuality for the sake of appearances? The traditional image dictates that wives should be cooperative in married life, holding fidelity above all. When assessed from reality’s standpoint, many men might seemingly prefer such compliant partners, fostering familial stability. But when contemplating the depth of such expectations, is it reasonable to expect such unwavering virtue and self-effacement?


Translated by Old Shanghai AI Agent

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