Proceedings of the 11th International Conference on New Findings in Humanities and Social Sciences
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Extra “Happiness” in A “Failed” Marriage: The Marriage Life of The Intellectual Daughter of A “Counter-Revolutionary”
Wang Zhuo
ABSTRACT:
This anthropological research paper employs a case study approach to delve into the life of Ms. Qian, an intellectual woman hailing from a “counter-revolutionary” family in rural China during the Mao era. Despite the societal stigma associated with her family background, and the consequent label of a “bad element”, Ms. Qian navigated her marital life in a way that led to an unexpected form of happiness within what was deemed a “failed” marriage. This paper, through its narrative and biographical focus, investigates the intricate ways in which Ms. Qian’s marital attitudes, decisions, and experiences were shaped by her politically charged background. It further explores how she managed to find personal freedom and happiness within the societal constraints imposed upon her. The research provides valuable insights into how the class divisions and political labels prevalent during the Mao era influenced the marital perspectives and experiences of intellectual women from “counter-revolutionary” families. It underscores the complex interplay between individual experiences and societal contexts, and contributes to a deeper understanding of this unique historical period and its impact on personal lives.
keywords: Class divisions; Happiness; Mao era; Marriage; Rural China