The Last Chinese Eunuch: An Interesting Story

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In summary, the article discusses the role of eunuchs in ancient China, particularly in the imperial palace. Eunuchs were thought to be nonpersons, but they held significant power and were privy to the emperor's most intimate secrets. One eunuch, Sun Yaoting, was interviewed extensively and revealed details about the emperor's opium addiction and ambivalence about his own sexuality. Eunuchs were also present in other cultures, such as the harems of the Ottomans and the Byzantines, where they also held positions of power and wealth. Despite the strange and often inhumane practice of emasculation, eunuchs were able to gain opportunities and influence in society.
  • #1
Math Is Hard
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A strange but interesting story..

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-fg-china-eunuchs6-2009mar06,0,7938113.story

Emasculation was thought to render eunuchs nonpersons, without ambition or ego, so their presence in the innermost sanctum of the imperial palace did not violate the emperor's privacy.

"The eunuchs were very mysterious and in some ways more interesting than the emperors themselves," said Jia Yinghua, Sun's biographer. Jia met Sun when he was researching a book about Puyi, and recorded 100 hours of conversations with him.

Sun was privy to the court's most intimate secrets, the opium addiction and out-of-wedlock pregnancy of the emperor's first wife, Wanrong, and the emperor's ambivalence about his own sexuality.
 
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  • #2
Alrighty now, I have read this a few times, and it has left me postless, which must be the same as speechless:bugeye: What a weird life this person had.
 
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  • #3
What a horrid thing! At least the eunuchs had a chance at gaining wealth and power. The castrati who were castrated to keep their voices from deepening probably had far fewer opportunities, and if their singing-voices failed them, oh well!
 
  • #4
I would really love to read this biography when it becomes available. Such an unusual piece of history. It sounds like the eunuchs were servants but some became more like concubines.
 
  • #5
In the harems of the Ottomans, eunuchs were guardians.
 
  • #6
Evo said:
In the harems of the Ottomans, eunuchs were guardians.
As they were among the Byzantines.

In both realms, several rose to positions of great power and wealth; since they were, for example, physically unable to found any rival dynasty, the emperor/sultan could rely on their loyalty and when the eunuch died, whatever riches he had amassed reverted to the state (that was the case in the Ottoman empire, at least).
 

1. What is the book "The Last Chinese Eunuch" about?

The book tells the story of Sun Yaoting, the last eunuch of the Chinese Imperial Court. It follows his life from being castrated as a child to serving in the Forbidden City as a eunuch and eventually witnessing the fall of the Qing Dynasty.

2. Is the book historically accurate?

Yes, the book is based on the life of Sun Yaoting, who was a real historical figure and the last eunuch of China. The author, Jia Yinghua, conducted extensive research and interviews with Sun Yaoting himself to ensure the accuracy of the story.

3. What makes this book an interesting read?

The book offers a unique perspective on Chinese history and culture through the eyes of a eunuch. It also sheds light on the complex and often overlooked role of eunuchs in the imperial court. The personal story of Sun Yaoting adds a human element to this fascinating historical account.

4. Is the book suitable for all audiences?

While the book does contain some graphic descriptions of castration and other sensitive topics, it is overall a well-written and thought-provoking read that can be enjoyed by a wide range of audiences. However, it may not be suitable for younger readers.

5. Are there any other books or resources that complement "The Last Chinese Eunuch"?

Yes, there are several other books and documentaries that explore the topic of Chinese eunuchs and the Qing Dynasty. Some recommended titles include "The Last Eunuch of China: The Life of Sun Yaoting" by Jia Yinghua and "The Qing Dynasty and Traditional Chinese Culture" by Richard J. Smith.

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