Ties That Bind, Ties That Break

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

Name 3-4 historical figures who broke with the traditional way in which their gender was perceived. How did their actions influence other people and communities, historically? How did their actions contribute to an understanding of gender now?

Teaching Suggestion: The theme Defying Traditional Gender Roles is developed throughout Namioka’s novel; from a young age, the protagonist Ailin is acutely aware of her gender which, in early 20th-century China, is considered a burden to her family. In order to alleviate this “burden,” Ailin is expected to adhere to cultural traditions including foot binding in order to marry well. Ailin struggles with social expectations throughout the course of the novel, and as she refuses to have her feet bound, she must accept the consequences of her actions. Students might explore other cultural standards that appear in various societies around the world and how these standards relate to gender.

• Educators4SC shares information and resources regarding “Teaching About Gender Stereotypes.” (Teacher-facing; not student-appropriate)
• Asia Society provides a historical background on “Women in Traditional China.