Hypnotherapy
Definition: A therapeutic approach in which a person is guided into a trance-like state to address emotional or behavioral challenges.
Etymology: From Greek hypnos (sleep) + therapeia (healing).
Example: CC participates in hypnotherapy, which allows her to relive the life of Mei Lan and uncover hidden memories.
Patriarchy
Definition: A social system in which men hold primary power over political, moral, and economic structures.
Etymology: From Greek patriarkhēs, meaning "father ruler."
Example: Mei Lan's stepmother enforces societal norms such as foot-binding, reflecting the rigid patriarchal structures of 11th-century China.
Immovable
Definition: Unable to be changed, influenced, or moved physically or metaphorically.
Etymology: From Latin immovabilis, "not able to be moved."
Example: Niang's strict insistence on traditions makes her immovable in her expectations for Mei Lan.
Song Dynasty
Definition: The Chinese dynasty that ruled from 960 to 1279 CE, notable for advancements in art, literature, and governance.
Etymology: Named after the ruling Song family (Song means "song" in Chinese).
Example: The painting Along the River at Qing Ming was created during the Song Dynasty, inspiring Ah Zhao's artistic vision.
Cultural Revolution
Definition: A political movement launched by Mao Zedong in 1966 to reinforce communist ideology and purge counter-revolutionary elements.
Etymology: English translation from Chinese Wénhuà Dàgémìng (文化大革命), meaning "Great Cultural Revolution."
Example: Though not directly part of the narrative, Mao Zedong's policies form the historical backdrop influencing the characters' social and family dynamics.
Eunuch
Definition: A man who has been castrated, often employed in royal courts historically.
Etymology: From Greek eunoukhos, "bedroom guard."
Example: Ah Zhao faces the possibility of becoming a eunuch to serve as a court artist for the Emperor.
Foot-binding
Definition: The historical practice of tightly binding young girls' feet to alter their shape, seen as a sign of beauty in China.
Etymology: From Old English fōt (foot) + bindan (to tie).
Example: Niang attempts to bind Mei Lan's feet, causing pain and highlighting restrictive societal norms.
Orphan
Definition: A child whose parents are deceased.
Etymology: From Greek orphanos, meaning "bereft, fatherless."
Example: Both Mei Lan and Ah Zhao face challenges as orphans, yet their resilience and creativity shape their journey.
Trance
Definition: A state of heightened focus or altered consciousness.
Etymology: From Latin transire, meaning "to pass over."
Example: During hypnotherapy sessions, CC enters a trance that allows her to experience the life of Mei Lan.
Calligraphy
Definition: The art of beautiful handwriting or lettering.
Etymology: From Greek kallos (beauty) + graphein (to write).
Example: Ah Zhao's calligraphy impresses his mentors and the Emperor, showcasing his artistic talent.
