“Empresses of Han Dynasty”

The Han Dynasty, a significant era in Chinese history, witnessed the rise and fall of many influential figures. Among these, the empresses played crucial roles, not only as consorts but also as political figures who often shaped the destiny of the empire. This article delves into the lives of two notable empresses: Empress Xu and Empress Ban.

Empress Xu (孝成许皇后)

Empress Xu, born into a family of high-ranking officials, was the daughter of the Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Ping’en Marquis Jia. Her journey to becoming empress was marked by both privilege and tragedy. When Emperor Yuan mourned the premature death of his mother, Empress Dowager Gong’ai, who had suffered at the hands of the Huo clan, he chose Jia’s daughter to marry the crown prince, the future Emperor Cheng.

Upon her entry into the palace, Empress Xu quickly gained favor with Emperor Cheng. Her intelligence and knowledge of historical texts further endeared her to the emperor. She bore him a son, who unfortunately did not survive. Later, she gave birth to a daughter, who also died young. Despite these personal losses, Empress Xu maintained her position and influence within the court.

Empress Xu’s father, Jia, had been serving as the Grand General since Emperor Yuan’s reign. With Emperor Cheng’s ascension, Jia continued to hold significant power, sharing responsibilities with the Emperor’s maternal uncle, Wang Feng. Du Qin, an advisor, emphasized the importance of respecting and cooperating with Jia to avoid conflicts that had plagued previous reigns. However, as time passed, Emperor Cheng sought to centralize power and appointed Wang Feng as the sole Grand General, relegating Jia to a less influential position. Jia passed away soon after, earning the posthumous title of Marquis Gong.

Empress Xu was known for her wisdom and literary talent. Throughout her time as empress, she was favored by Emperor Cheng, which limited the advancement of other consorts. However, concerns about the lack of an heir and the occurrence of several natural disasters led to criticisms of the empress. Scholars like Liu Xiang and Gu Yong attributed these issues to the empress’s influence over the emperor. Consequently, the emperor reduced the expenditures of the imperial household and ordered the empress to limit her privileges.

Despite her reduced status, Empress Xu appealed to the emperor, arguing that her frugality and adherence to traditional values were in line with previous customs. She defended her actions and sought to maintain her dignity and respect within the palace. Nonetheless, the political climate continued to shift, and the empress’s influence waned as new favorites emerged in the harem.

Empress Xu’s downfall was precipitated by the actions of her sister, Lady Xie, and other relatives who engaged in witchcraft and conspiracies against favored concubines. When these plots were discovered, Lady Xie and her accomplices were executed, and Empress Xu was deposed and confined to the Changding Palace. Her brother was sent back to his fiefdom. After years of exile, Empress Xu’s family was eventually pardoned, but she was forced to commit suicide by imperial decree.

Empress Ban (孝成班婕妤)

Empress Ban, known for her virtue and intellect, entered the palace during Emperor Cheng’s reign. Initially serving as a low-ranking attendant, she quickly rose to the rank of consort due to her talents and demeanor. Empress Ban was renowned for her understanding of classical texts and her adherence to Confucian principles.

One notable incident that highlights Empress Ban’s character occurred when Emperor Cheng invited her to ride in the same carriage. Empress Ban respectfully declined, citing historical precedents where wise rulers were always accompanied by virtuous ministers rather than favored consorts. Her refusal impressed both the emperor and the empress dowager, who compared her to the virtuous consorts of ancient times.

Empress Ban’s influence extended beyond the court as she mentored other consorts, including Li Ping, who later became favored by the emperor and was granted the title of Consort Wei. Despite her rising influence, Empress Ban maintained her modesty and continued to adhere to traditional values.

The latter part of Empress Ban’s life was marked by the rise of Zhao Feiyan and her sister, who captivated Emperor Cheng with their beauty and charm. As new favorites, they overshadowed Empress Ban and other consorts. Despite the changing dynamics of the harem, Empress Ban continued to uphold her principles and remained a respected figure within the palace.

Empress Ban’s legacy is one of wisdom, virtue, and resilience. Her life serves as a testament to the enduring values of Confucianism and the importance of maintaining one’s integrity in the face of adversity.

The lives of Empress Xu and Empress Ban reflect the complex interplay of power, politics, and personal virtues within the Han Dynasty. These empresses navigated the treacherous waters of court intrigue, leaving behind legacies that continue to be remembered and studied. Their stories offer valuable insights into the roles of women in ancient Chinese society and the enduring impact of their actions on the history of the empire.