"Raise the Red Lantern"

Paper Summary:

Set in 1920s Northern China, "Raise the Red Lantern" is based on the novel "Wives and Concubines" by Su Tong. The paper discusses the story line which focuses on nineteen-year old Songlian, who is cajoled into marrying a wealthy householder to become his fourth wife. Songlian is educated, but she dropped out of college following her father's death. It discuses one of the primary themes of "Raise the Red Lantern," which is the role of women in Chinese culture.

From the Paper:

"The film is laced with dialogue that reveals ingrained misogyny; the concubines unquestioningly accept their roles. Songlian bemoans her fate but feels powerless to change it. The film opens with a close-up shot of Songlian's face as she speaks to her stepmother off-screen. Songlian's tearfully resolute visage sets the stage for the remainder of the film, which reveals the belief systems, values, behaviors, and customs of Northern China. Visually and emotionally captivating, Raise the Red Lantern lends insight specifically into the lives of wealthy Chinese concubines, and focuses especially on the role of women in Chinese culture."

More papers on "Raise the Red Lantern":

• Analytical Essay # 130805 : "Tragic Fate of Chinese Women and 'Raise the Red Lantern'"
• Film Review # 111117 : "Raise the Red Lantern" and Corruption in China"
• Term Paper # 100587 : "Raise the Red Lantern"

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