Lady Tan's Circle of Women
What's it about
Ever wondered how women found power and purpose in a world designed to silence them? Discover the inspiring story of a 15th-century Chinese woman who defied convention to become a celebrated physician, treating women from all walks of life. This summary unpacks the real-life tale of Tan Yunxian. You’ll learn how she used the "four examinations"—looking, listening, touching, and asking—to diagnose illnesses men couldn't. Explore how her deep friendships with a midwife and an empress created a powerful circle of women, helping her overcome immense personal and societal obstacles to leave a lasting medical legacy.
Meet the author
Lisa See is the New York Times bestselling author of numerous acclaimed historical novels that celebrate the forgotten stories of Chinese women and their complex relationships. A quarter Chinese herself, See was inspired by her own family history to explore the lives of women who were often silenced or ignored by official records. Her meticulous research and deep empathy for her subjects, as seen in Lady Tan's Circle of Women, bring these hidden worlds to life with breathtaking detail and emotional power.
The Script
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