Source:

01-13-2006 16:57

The province of Huizhou no longer exists. Its territory has been divided between Anhui and Jiangxi provinces. But during the feudal era, this region was an area famous for preserving Confucian ethics. It was home to several prominent Neo-Confucian scholars. Among many pieces of ancient architecture are memorial arches. These freestanding archways were built to commemorate the virtues of outstanding individuals. They could only be built with the permission of the imperial government. Huizhou has so many of these arches that it is known as the memorial arch capital. The stories behind them reveal Huizhou’s traditional moral values.

Memorial arches commemorated loyalty, filial piety, righteousness and chastity. They could only be built with the approval of the Emperor. This was usually only given posthumously. A family’s memorial arches greatly enhanced their prestige and reflected their importance. The Bao（鮑） family was one of the most prominent clans in Huizhou. They were well known for their loyal service at court and virtuous lives at home. The family had many arches in recognition of their virtues, but still lacked one for their righteousness.

Feudal ethics placed great emphasis on obedience. The hierarchy of power was strictly enforced. Those who flouted the rules could find themselves criticized in the ancestral temple or ostracized. Chastity was a highly prized virtue in women. Although men could take concubines, any woman who committed adultery was severely punished. Even after being widowed, women were expected to stay faithful to their husbands’ memory. Remarriage was possible but not condoned. Memorial arches lauding the chastity of individual women are common throughout Huizhou. These arches were considered marks of honour during feudal times. Modern visitors are bound to see them in a very different light.

 

Editor:Wang Ping