Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See

*** My Review ***

In “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women,” Lisa See transports readers to 15th-century China, immersing them in the life of Lady Tan Yunxian, a woman born into privilege but confined by societal restrictions and expectations. The novel beautifully explores themes of class, friendship, medicine, and the intricacies of women’s lives during that era.

The story begins with the loss of Yunxian’s mother at a young age, leading her to live with her grandparents. Unlike most girls of her status, Yunxian’s grandmother offers her the opportunity to learn medicine and befriends Meiling, the daughter of a local midwife. Through their lifelong bond, Yunxian discovers the unity shared among women and learns to transcend her privileged upbringing. The novel follows Yunxian’s journey through the stages of a woman’s life, offering insights into the different ways women experience confinement.

Lisa See’s attention to detail is extraordinary, vividly depicting the sights, smells, and cultural intricacies of Ming Dynasty China. The authenticity in her portrayal of Chinese traditions, religious values, and aphorisms enriches the narrative and captivates readers. Even as a first-time reader of See’s work, I found myself utterly absorbed in this historical fiction gem and eager to explore more of her writings.

“Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” stands out as one of Lisa See’s finest novels to date. In her Author’s Notes, she shares the origins of her quest to write this book, which began during the pandemic while researching Ancient Chinese Medicine and the writings of a real-life female doctor. The story introduces us to Tan Yunxian, a descendant from a lineage of doctors, both male and female, who possesses a remarkable gift for medicine. Through Yunxian’s life, we witness the societal pressures, arranged marriages, and the limited roles imposed on women during that period.

See skillfully unveils the restrictive world of women in 15th-century China, where speaking and acting freely was a luxury few women enjoyed. The male-dominated medical field dismissed women’s potential beyond childbearing and pleasing husbands. Descriptions of foot binding and the sacrifices women made to secure their place in society are both distressing and eye-opening. The story of Tan Yunxian resonates deeply, connecting ancient times to the present and reminding us that the circle of women’s struggles continues across time and cultures.

“Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” is a captivating journey into ancient China, offering insights into the lives and customs of its people, especially women, during the 1500s. Through the friendship between Yunxian and Meiling, two women from different social strata, the novel explores the stages of a woman’s life and their devotion to caring for women throughout various stages of their lives. The story is enriched by real-life cases from the book “Miscellaneous Records of a Female Doctor,” published in 1511, which inspired Lisa See.

Lisa See’s ability to bring historical settings to life is unmatched, and “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” showcases her talent once again. Readers will be enthralled by the well-crafted story, compelling characters, and the detailed recreation of 15th-century China. The novel sheds light on the strength and contributions of women whose lives were constrained by societal expectations and serves as a reminder of their essential value.

Throughout the narrative, Lisa See masterfully delves into the complexities of women’s lives in a society governed by Confucian philosophy. She highlights the oppressive nature of gender roles, where women were confined to the inner court and judged solely by their ability to bear sons. The harrowing descriptions of foot binding and the lengths women went to in order to conform to societal expectations prompt readers to reflect on contemporary beauty practices and the enduring pressures women face.

The strength and resilience of Lady Tan Yunxian’s character resonate deeply with readers. As a female physician, she defies societal norms and challenges the male-dominated medical field. Her dedication to her craft and her determination to prove her worth in a world that constantly belittles her is truly inspiring. By shedding light on Lady Tan’s story, Lisa See emphasizes the essential contributions of women throughout history and invites us to recognize their capabilities and value beyond traditional gender roles.

“Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” seamlessly combines meticulous historical research with engaging storytelling. Lisa See’s prose is evocative, transporting readers to the heart of Ming Dynasty China, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era. The rich tapestry of the narrative, woven with authentic cultural details and traditions, immerses readers in a world that feels both distant and familiar.

In conclusion, “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a compelling journey through 15th-century China. Lisa See’s meticulous research, coupled with her ability to craft well-rounded and relatable characters, brings this historical era to life. Through the lens of Lady Tan Yunxian’s story, the novel explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the struggle for women’s empowerment in a society defined by limitations. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women and a reminder of the shared experiences that transcend time and place. “Lady Tan’s Circle of Women” is a must-read for those seeking an immersive and enlightening historical fiction experience.