If someone living in China during/after the Cultural Revolution were to read this story, what things would they recognize in the short story "The Tall Woman and Her Short Husband" by Feng Ji-cai,?

Answer 1

1. The theme of inequality and power dynamics between individuals, which reflects the societal structure during the Cultural Revolution where individuals were classified and treated differently based on their roles and positions in society.

2. The use of Chinese folklore and symbolism, such as the tall woman and short husband representing contrasting characteristics and societal expectations, which would resonate with the cultural norms and beliefs familiar to someone living in China during that time.

3. The focus on relationships and the struggles of navigating societal expectations and norms, which were particularly relevant during the Cultural Revolution when personal relationships and interactions were heavily influenced and monitored by the government.

4. The references to labor and work, as well as the setting of a coal mine, would be recognizable to someone living in China during the Cultural Revolution where the working class played a pivotal role in society and were often glorified for their contributions to the state.

5. The exploration of themes such as ambition, power, and conformity, which were prevalent during the Cultural Revolution as individuals were expected to adhere to strict ideological principles and conform to the norms set by the government.