The Works of Ban Zhao brings together the surviving writings of one of the most remarkable scholars in Chinese history. Ban Zhao (45-116 CE) was a historian, philosopher, educator, poet, and the first known female historian of China. Following the death of her brother Ban Gu, she completed the monumental Book of Han, preserving one of the greatest historical works ever written.
This collection includes Ban Zhao's most influential writings, most notably Lessons for Women (Nü Jie), alongside her memorials, essays, poems, and other surviving works. Together, they explore themes of education, morality, family, governance, and personal virtue, revealing the breadth of her intellectual interests.
Although often remembered for her advice on women's conduct, Ban Zhao presents a more nuanced vision. She advocates education for women, emphasizes virtue, humility, learning, and mutual respect, and demonstrates the historical insight and political wisdom that earned her the respect of the Eastern Han imperial court.
The Works of Ban Zhao offers an invaluable window into Han Dynasty society, Confucian thought, classical Chinese literature, and the life of one of antiquity's greatest female scholars. You can find more on our YouTube channel Nerdjacker's Vault.