Abstract

This paper looks at the lives of eunuchs during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The lives of three eunuchs, Zheng He, Wei Zhongxian, and Sun Yaoting are examined. The overall focus of the paper is to explore the realities of eunuch life in contrast to the stereotypical behavior that eunuchs are usually assigned. This includes behaving in a self-serving and power-hungry manner. Within the first section, using the writings of the scribe Ma Huan, Zheng He’s power and life as a eunuch show the manner that a eunuch could exercise great power without bringing destruction to those he served. In the second section, the life of the most infamous eunuch, Wei Zhongxian is examined, and his influence on the Tianqi emperor’s short reign. The final section looks to the eunuch Sun Yaoting, and his filial desire to become a eunuch to support his family, through his biography.

Advisor

Ng, Margaret

Department

History

Disciplines

Asian History | Chinese Studies | Social History

Keywords

Eunuchs, Zheng He, Wei Zhongxian, Sun Yaoting, Ming, Qing

Publication Date

2019

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2019 Laura Vivian Pratt