When watching ancient palace dramas, we often see scenes where concubines scold palace maids when they make mistakes. However, historians believe that this is not accurate. In the past, concubines could beat or punish palace maids, but they would never scold them. This can be explained as follows:
The influence of Confucianism
In the past, using harsh words to scold palace maids was seen as tarnishing one’s own reputation. During the feudal period, concubines were also influenced by Confucianism.
Confucianism says: “A beautiful appearance, simplicity is the true value of character. Excessive luxury will reveal vulgarity.” Therefore, they highly value etiquette, righteousness, integrity, and proper speech. Those who come from noble families attach even more importance to this matter.
Ancient emperors highly valued the virtuous behavior of concubines. Therefore, concubines always had to pay attention to their standards and their words. If the empress or concubines used harsh words to scold palace maids, it would make others think that they were terrible women without etiquette. This not only affects their reputation but also harms their family.
Fear of gossip
There were thousands of people in the palace, so any incidents would spread quickly. Therefore, sometimes when concubines scold palace maids, it might be blown out of proportion.
If carelessly handled, the incident will reach the emperor and make him feel that the person is malicious and abhorrent. In fact, many concubines have been demoted or confined to the palace because of this.
Fear of secrets being revealed
Palace maids are close attendants who work almost 24 hours a day with the emperor. Therefore, they know everything about the concubines. For example, the concubine’s connections, scheming, etc., are all secrets known by palace maids. Therefore, if they are scolded by the master, in moments of resentment, they can reveal these secrets. The exposure of such matters also becomes a cause of fear for concubines.
In history, Concubine Uong Thi was married into the palace at the age of 17. She gave birth to a princess not long after entering the palace, so her position became more stable. However, because she was favored by the emperor, Concubine Uong Thi became arrogant.
Once, this concubine scolded a palace maid to death for a minor mistake. The story spread through many rumors and reached the emperor’s ears. As a result, the emperor became angry and punished Concubine Uong Thi. At the same time, he banned her from approaching the princess.
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