Jay, I see your point(s). I don't have the reference readily available, but
in my scant research on the footbinding practice (because of the missionary
work), I understand that the pain was lifelong -- now I don't know if that
was true for all or just for some. I'm sure it was akin to arthritis. Are
there any Chinese cultural experts out there who might weigh in? One
question, though; I knew you'd come back with your comment on the demands of
society on 19th century women, and I do agree, however, isn't it a little
different from being 2(or whatever age it was) and having your feet bound?
Candace

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