If the strong odor on the body of the eunuch becomes too overpowering, the question arises as to how the Emperor and the concubines are able to endure it? Eunuchs, in the history of imperial China, are mysterious figures who often have a significant impact on the royal court they serve. Although we have knowledge of the existence of eunuchs, there is still very little historical evidence about them.
In the history of the East, eunuchs are always special because they serve directly for the king and the concubines. They are often mysterious figures in the palace, serving faithfully but also possessing significant behind-the-scenes power. Although the history of China, Korea, and Vietnam record the existence of eunuchs, there are still many uncertainties and few official records left about these individuals.
Changes on the eunuch’s body
In Steadicam’s work, the author describes that the tone of the eunuch’s voice becomes “noisy” after they become eunuchs. In the case of castration at a young age, their voice will later resemble that of women. However, if they are castrated when they have already grown up, their voice will become more high-pitched over time.
Another unique characteristic of eunuchs is that they do not have beards. Regardless of how many beards are on their faces, before or after castration, those beards will gradually disappear after 2 or 3 months of seclusion. Eventually, the face will become smooth, like a shiny pearl.
In addition, Steadicam also recorded that after eunuchs are castrated, they may suffer from bedwetting for a short period, usually from 2 to 3 months. If this condition persists, it will be a major problem and the eunuchs will be punished until they no longer suffer from bedwetting.
The reason is that ancient medical conditions were not good, there was no effective sterilization method after seclusion. They had to take care of their wounds themselves.
The leakage of urine into their pants causes the eunuch’s body to emit a strange odor. In feudal society, people often describe the foul odor from the eunuch’s body with the greatest discomfort and disgust.
There are times when you can still smell that odor even standing 300 meters away. However, each eunuch has a distinctive foul odor. Many believe that eunuchs with strong foul odors are often low-ranking eunuchs, completely different from those who are close to the Emperor every day.
So how can the Emperor and the concubines endure it?
The way to counteract the unpleasant odor on the eunuch’s body in ancient times is an exquisite and clever art. We can learn about the tricks they used to keep the secret of this unpleasant odor.
One of the simple yet effective measures that eunuchs used is to wear multiple layers of thick clothing to conceal the odor. However, on hot sunny days, this trick carries the risk of getting heatstroke or even fainting while working. This poses a major concern for maintaining respectfulness from the host, as losing consciousness while working can lead to dissatisfaction and resentment.
Another measure used by eunuchs is to use a cotton cloth placed inside their pants, which has a similar function to modern sanitary pads. Although it seems quite economical and convenient, this is only a temporary measure and does not guarantee complete effectiveness.
Many eunuchs turned to fragrances to mask the foul odor. Although this can be considered the most effective measure, not everyone has the ability and financial means to use good fragrances. The use of fragrances has helped eunuchs avoid discomfort from the Emperor and concubines, creating a more pleasant environment when standing near them.
These tricks, although not great inventions, are clever creations of the ancient eunuch class, who faced difficult challenges for survival in the imperial court. Sometimes, these measures are not only for glory and wealth, but also to protect their lives from unexpected and dangerous situations. In fact, not all eunuchs are wicked, some of them are even very kind and considerate, especially when dealing with those of lower status.
Why did eunuchs in the past get married even though they couldn’t have children?
There is a common misconception that eunuchs never get married, but the reality is that most of them do. The truth behind it is quite heartbreaking.
Silence rule forces Qing dynasty concubines to keep quiet during intimate activities
During the Qing Dynasty, imperial consorts were expected to maintain silence and refrain from making any noise while being attended to by the emperor.
Unspoken rule stops Qing dynasty concubines from making noise during intimate moments
During the rule of the Qing Dynasty, concubines were required to maintain absolute silence during their encounters with the emperor. They were forbidden from making any sound at all.
Unspoken rules that forced Qing dynasty concubines to stay silent while being inspected by the emperor
When in the presence of the emperor, all concubines must maintain silence. This is a mandatory rule, and no one is allowed to disobey.
Why does a concubine need to be led back to the palace after being favored by the emperor?
This was the rule in the ancient harem. Once they were favored by the emperor, the concubines were escorted back to the palace to rest.
