The Forbidden City of Tears: A Historical Study of Sorrow, Betrayal and Loneliness in the Imperial Palace of China
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study examined the historical experiences of sorrow, betrayal, and loneliness within the imperial palace of China, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It explored how imperial hierarchy, political rivalries, palace traditions, concubinage, restricted personal freedom, and struggles for imperial favour influenced the emotional and social experiences of emperors, empresses, concubines, palace women, and eunuchs. The study employed a qualitative historical research approach through the examination of existing scholarly literature, historical documents, museum records, and academic publications. The findings revealed that although the Forbidden City represented imperial authority, wealth, and cultural achievement, life within its walls was also shaped by isolation, unequal relationships, emotional restrictions, and political uncertainty. Historical accounts demonstrated that palace women experienced limitations on personal autonomy, while eunuchs encountered institutional restrictions and social marginalisation. The study concluded that the Forbidden City should be understood not only as a symbol of China's imperial greatness but also as a historical environment in which personal emotions, human relationships, and struggles for power shaped everyday palace life.
Institution: Universiti of Malaysia Sabah
Language: English
Subfield: History
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225748687
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