Study On Khitan Princess Of Liao Dynasty

In Liao Dynasty, Women had relatively high social status, and Khitan Princesses,as a special group of Liao Dynasty, had noble birth and solid economic basis. Theycould participate in the political process and divorce freely. The study of Khitanprincesses and their social life in Liao dynasty has positive significance inunderstanding the Khitan princess’ function and social influence in Liao society. Theprincess mentioned in this thesis is not limited to the daughters of the Emperors inLiao Dynasty, but also include the daughters of the emperor’s brothers’, as well asthose who married to other vassal state or nationalities. At present, scholars have notdevoted to the study of Khitan Princess in Liao Dynasty. Only a few thesisconcentrated on certain aspect of certain princess, among which the date of princess inChen State and the princess royal in Qin & Jin State is more, so is the research. Whilethe research and concentration to princess of Liao Dynasty is far from enough. Thisthesis will systematically discuss the economic and political status, spiritual life andmarried life of Princesses of Liao Dynasty, and fully present their style in Liao’shistory.This thesis is divided into four chapters. The first chapter discusses the politicalstatus and decision of the princess in Liao Dynasty, from the title of princess to theirpolitical status and decision. The political status and decision of the princess in LiaoDynasty have both positive and negative effect on Liao dynasty. The princess activelyparticipating in country affairs and making peace marriage with other regime hasplayed a positive role in the development of Liao Dynasty. While the princessinvolving in the rebellion, struggling with Empresses and breaking rules has played anegative role in Liao’s society.The second chapter discusses the economic strength and the economic activitiesof the princess in Liao Dynasty from their economic power and economic activity.One of the source of income of princess in Liao dynasty is from the army and the state tax, which is the unique feature of the Khitan princess. The other source of income isfrom the reward of the Emperor. The sum of income is used to living expenses,catacombs construction , gift spending, relief for the poor, Buddhist temple andpagoda building and so on.The third chapter discusses the education and faith of the Khitan princess. Theeducation of the princess includes the Mother Miriam education and shooting andriding education, of which the latter education is different from what of the Princessin the Central Plains. Generally speaking, the Khitan princesses believe in Buddhism.And some of their names are related to Buddhism, and they also actively constructBuddhist temple and pagoda.The fourth Chapter discusses the family life of the Khitan Princess, whichincluding seven aspects. They are princess’s married age, married etiquette, spouses,family status, remarriage, children and funeral. Finally, the thesis makes a conclusionto the marriage characteristics.