Analysis of the Tragedy of Women's Fate under the Feudal Marriage System: A Case Study of Raise the Red Lantern

This paper uses the film Raise the Red Lantern (1991) directed by Zhang Yimou as an example to explore the tragic fate of women under China's feudal marriage system. TIn this study, I explore how cinematic techniquesspecifically visual symbolism, color palettes, and framingunderscore the oppressive ambiance of feudal ethics. My analysis hones in on salient visual motifs, such as the recurring red lanterns, alongside ritualistic practices like foot massage and the concubine hierarchy, which collectively epitomize female subjugation and compliance. The characters in the film are interpreted as symbols of different social ideologies, with a particular focus on Songlian, Meishan, and Zhuoyun, who reflect different responses to systemic oppression. This study uses semiotics and feminist film analysis to interpret the narrative and stylistic strategies, highlighting institutionalized patriarchy in the film. The findings show that the film presents a harsh historical reality and exposes the internalized misogyny and self-destruction fostered by patriarchy. The conclusion reflects on the broader implications of gender representation in the film and the lasting impact of feudal values on modern cultural memory.