Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See (Scribner)

"Lady Tan's Circle of Women," a captivating historical novel penned by Lisa See, draws its inspiration from the riveting life story of Tan Yunxian, a woman physician from the 15th-century Ming dynasty in China. The turning point in her life was when she published a book of her medical cases upon turning fifty in 1511. Remarkably, many of the medical formulas she documented continue to find relevance in today's traditional Chinese medicine, embodying traditions that span over two thousand years. The essence of her life is encapsulated in these cases, each meticulously opened with a vivid description of her patient, often a woman or girl from an elite household.

Born into privilege, our protagonist, Tan Yunxian, navigates through a life marked by the shadows of death, loss, and solitude. Under the guidance of her grandparents, she is introduced to the pillars of Chinese medicine - the Four Examinations by her grandmother, one of China's rare female doctors. 

As a young girl, Yunxian is exposed to the various ailments afflicting women, particularly those related to childbirth. This exposure is further enriched by her friendship with Meiling, a midwife-in-training. Despite societal constraints, their bond grows stronger, vowing to stand by each other through happiness and hardship. However, Yunxian's life takes a turn when she is thrust into an arranged marriage, her mother-in-law commanding her to sever ties with Meiling and renounce her medical pursuits to conform to traditional gender roles.

The narrative then takes us through Yunxian's journey as she challenges these societal norms, treating women and girls of all social strata. Her story underscores the power of friendship as a driving force that simultaneously aids and complicates her journey. It is a testament to the power of women uplifting other women, and a reimagination of the life of an extraordinary woman from the Ming dynasty.

A pivotal moment in Yunxian's life is the death of her mother due to a foot infection, a poignant reminder of the societal norms that "Their tottering and swaying on their spindly and weak legs make them appealing to men, but a single misstep or fall can change their futures." Yunxian finds solace and a new home with her grandparents, both physicians. Under the tutelage of her grandmother, Ru, she learns about medicine and eventually becomes the personal physician of Empress Dowager Cixi. Throughout her journey, she forms close bonds with other women, including her grandmother, her best friend, her maid, and even the concubines.

Yunxian's life is a testament to the resilience of women, even as she was expected to adhere to the Confucian dictum: "When a girl, obey your father; when a wife, obey your husband; when a widow, obey your son. Whether animal or woman, they are a man’s possessions." Despite these constraints, she embodied the Four Quintessential Attributes of a woman: virtue, elegant speech, proper comportment, and diligent work habits. 

While it may be easy to overlook the significance of concubines in history, let's not forget that each of them carries a story of their own. Born to a mother who nurtured and loved her, every girl, regardless of her misfortunes or limited worldview, deserves our empathy. It is essential to remember that despite any feelings of jealousy the wives might have, every woman is a human being with her own experiences and emotions.

Lisa See has a unique way of writing that pulls you into the narrative, almost as if you're walking the streets of 15th-century China. She skillfully depicts a world where decorum meets brutality, shedding light on the stark contrast between the lives of men and women. Lisa's work poignantly reminds us that women, irrespective of their social status, were often seen as mere commodities.

The book is told through the eyes of Yunxian, providing readers with an intimate look into her innermost thoughts and feelings. Reading this book feels like embarking on an enlightening journey into historical fiction and women's history. It not only offers a snapshot of women's lives during the 15th century in China but also underscores the significance of female bonds and resilience. The interlude set within the confines of the Forbidden City unveils the diverse experiences of women across all strata of society, from servants to the empress herself.

While the book might not appeal to everyone, it's a must-read for admirers of Lisa See's previous works or anyone with a keen interest in understanding women's roles throughout history. Lisa's captivating writing style and complex characters transport you to a vividly depicted historical era. 

However, the timeless themes of friendship, empowerment, and the pursuit of dreams resonate deeply, transcending the constraints of time and space. "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" has left an indelible mark on me. The characters' stories have become a part of my own narrative, and their resilience and courage continue to inspire me. I am certain that these remarkable women will remain in my heart for many years to come. 

5/5