Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how the 1991 film "Raise the Red Lantern", directed by Zhang Yimou, may be viewed on different levels. It argues that we should view the film as depicting the subjugation and hopeless situation of Chinese women on the one hand; while keeping in mind that this is mirrored by the subjugation of the peasants by the landowners. Both systems of subjugation utilize a system of divide and rule, so that the oppressed aim their anger at each other, not at their oppressors. The paper attempts to show how, in this way, the film is an excellent allegory of the way in which dictatorships succeed, by dividing and ruling the common people.

From the Paper:

"This most noticeable feature of this film is that despite the fact that it is shown from the viewpoint of Songlian, the Fourth Mistress, nevertheless it constantly reflects anti-women prejudice, much of it internalized by women themselves. For example, Second Mistress seems at first to be friendly towards Songlian - causing one to question why. However, it is sad to see that when she introduces her little daughter to Songlian, she states: "How useless! I only have a daughter!" This is a brutally destructive remark to make in front of the small girl, and teaches her to expect nothing from her life. It is shameful that this comment should come from someone who is herself a woman, and reflects a deeply sexist society. No wonder that by the time we meet Songlian at the beginning of the film, she is already resigned to being nothing more than a concubine. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Berardinelli, James. "Raise the Red Lantern: A Film Review." Retrieved from: http://www.reelviews.net/movies/r/raise.html
• Farquhar, Mary. "Zhang Yimou." Retrieved from http://www.sensesofcinema.com/contents/directors/02/zhang.html
• Zhang Yimou (Director). Raise the Red Lantern. 1991.

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