Foot binding: A Cultural Practice in Lisa Sees Snow Flower and Secret Fan

Name of Author : Jenisha Mary X, Dr. J JesuLatha

Abstract: The objective of the paper is to explore the cultural practice of foot binding followed in ancient China.One of the most cruel customs followed in China was foot binding. Ancient Chinese women were tortured mentally as well as physically in the name of culture. Foot binding was the Chinese custom of breaking the bones and tightly binding the feet of young girls in order to change their shape and size.The process was usually starts between the ages of four and nine. Seven was the perfect age for foot binding. The altered feet by foot binding were known as lotus feet or golden liliesanda perfect bound foot must have three inches. In ancient China, bound feet were considered a status symbol.In most of the areas, foot binding raised marriage prospects for young girls. However, foot binding was a painful practice that limited the mobility of women and resulted in lifelong disabilities and also it might cause death. This practice makes women to stay in the inner realm. This paper portrays the pain and sufferings of women during their foot binding. The purpose of the paper is to present how women suffered in the name of culture.

Keywords : Status Symbol, Suppression, Agony

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