Raise the Red Lantern

Definition

Raise the Red Lantern is a 1991 film directed by Zhang Yimou, based on the novel 'Wives and Concubines' by Su Tong. The film is set in 1920s China and explores themes of power, oppression, and jealousy within the confines of a wealthy man's household, where the custom of raising colored lanterns signifies which wife has gained favor. This visual metaphor underscores the struggles of women navigating their status and personal desires within a patriarchal society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The film was critically acclaimed and won several awards, including Best Foreign Language Film at the 1992 Academy Awards.
2. Raise the Red Lantern is noted for its stunning cinematography, which emphasizes the lush colors and intricate details of traditional Chinese architecture and clothing.
3. The story is centered around the character of Songlian, who becomes the fourth wife and faces intense rivalry with the other wives as she seeks her husband's affection.
4. The raising of the red lantern symbolizes not only favor but also reflects the emotional turmoil and competition that permeates the lives of the women involved.
5. The film critiques traditional gender roles and showcases the impact of societal expectations on women's lives in a restrictive environment.

Review Questions

• How does 'Raise the Red Lantern' portray the dynamics between the wives in a patriarchal setting?
  • 'Raise the Red Lantern' illustrates the intense rivalry and emotional struggles among the wives as they vie for their husband's attention and favor. The custom of raising lanterns serves as a powerful symbol of this competition, where each wife’s status fluctuates based on her ability to win his affection. The film reveals how this patriarchal structure not only fosters jealousy but also impacts their relationships and mental well-being.
• Analyze how symbolism is used in 'Raise the Red Lantern' to enhance its themes of power and oppression.
  • 'Raise the Red Lantern' employs symbolism extensively, particularly through the colored lanterns that signify which wife has favor at any given time. These lanterns are not just decorative; they represent social hierarchy and emotional stakes within the household. As the narrative unfolds, the shifting status indicated by the lanterns highlights how power dynamics can dictate personal relationships and foster an environment of oppression among women.
• Evaluate how 'Raise the Red Lantern' reflects broader societal issues related to gender roles in early 20th-century China.
  • 'Raise the Red Lantern' serves as a poignant commentary on gender roles in early 20th-century China by depicting women trapped in a system that values them primarily for their reproductive potential and status within a man's household. Through Songlian's experiences as she navigates her new life as a concubine, viewers gain insight into how societal expectations limit women's autonomy and agency. The film ultimately challenges audiences to reflect on these historical issues while drawing parallels to ongoing discussions about gender inequality today.

Related terms

Concubinage: A practice in historical Chinese society where a man could have multiple women as concubines, who held a lower status than his legal wife.

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, which in this film includes the colored lanterns that signify the hierarchy among the wives.