Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See

Lisa See’s historical novel Lady Tan’s Circle of Women tells the story of Tan Yunxian, a woman who defies 15th century Chinese convention to become a doctor. The narrative is framed by the aphorism, “No mud, no lotus,” emphasising that Yunxian’s strength and purpose were forged from immense suffering and social constraint.

​The book deeply explores Chinese medicine, which Yunxian learns from her doctor grandmother. This holistic approach, crucial because male doctors could not touch female patients, prioritised the Four Examinations and diagnosed illness based on emotional burdens like the Seven Emotions and Five Fatigues a sophisticated understanding of women’s psychosomatic health.

​The story provides a stark depiction of misogyny through institutions like footbinding, which physically crippled women, and concubinage, which reduced them to transactional commodities. After her arranged marriage, Yunxian’s life becomes a study in social control, enforced by her mother in law, Lady Kuo, whose actions were analysed as a survival tactic within the patriarchal system. Conversely, the female character analysis found that the low status midwife Meiling, Yunxian’s best friend, carried the heaviest burden of economic necessity.

​The central pillar of the story is the deep women’s friendship between Yunxian and Meiling. While their bond was rooted in loyalty and a shared medical mission, it was constantly challenged by the obligations imposed by their vast difference in class. The male character analysis showed how the men, driven by desires for status and legacy, used their power to dictate women’s roles.

​Ultimately, Yunxian’s resilience allows her to practice medicine covertly. Her persistence earns her professional renown and results in the publication of her medical case studies, marking a permanent triumph of purpose over societal limitations.

10 of us met on the morning of the 21st November 21st at the RSGC’s Glassroom, to discuss Lady Tan’s Circle of Women’s by  Lisa See. Leslie hosted this last meeting of the year.

Review thanks to Jay – Jung Min Lee