A Symbol of ‘Gender Transformation’: Cross-Dressing in Female Tanci of Late Imperial China

Abstract

Abstract Tanci was one of the most popular literary forms among classical Chinese women writers, emerging in the middle of the Ming dynasty (1368–1644) and becoming extremely prominent during the Qing dynasty (1636–1912). This article explores five tanci stories centred on female-to-male cross-dressing inspired by Judith Butler’s performative theory. It discusses the varied applications of it by the authors and uncovers the commonalities hidden between the differences. In these works, cross-dressing is a common symbol of an attempt to cross the boundaries of gender identity and personal values outside the home. The meaning given to this symbol by female writers is a form of escape from their limited social living spaces. Their stories reflect their efforts to experience the same freedom and personal values outside the home as men had in Confucian society at the time. However, their resistance conforms to the existing social constructs of gender.