Chinese courtesans (妓女, or more euphemistically 伎女) were among the most educated and accomplished women in traditional Chinese society — trained in poetry, music, calligraphy, and the art of conversation.
The Education of Courtesans
Unlike ordinary women who were confined to domestic life, courtesans received education in the “Four Accomplishments” (琴棋书画) — music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Many became celebrated poets, calligraphers, and musicians.
Famous Courtesans
Xue Tao (薛涛) of the Tang Dynasty is perhaps the most famous courtesan-poet — her poetry was collected and admired for centuries. Liu Rushi (柳如是) of the Ming-Qing transition was both a renowned poet and a figure in political resistance.
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