The Dowager and the Dynasty: A Walk and Discussion at the Summer Palace
Date: Friday, December 2
Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Cost: 300 RMB, 260 RMB for members includes all entrance tickets.
She ruled China for nearly a half century and is one of the most feared and reviled rulers in all of Chinese history. She is also blamed still for taking money that should have gone to build a navy in defense of the realm and using it instead to construct an elaborate pleasure garden. But the real story of the Empress Dowager Cixi — and the Summer Palace she had built — is far more complicated and fascinating.
Who was the Empress Dowager? Why is she blamed for bringing down the last dynasty? How did an imperial consort rise to become the most powerful person in the empire? How do we separate fact and fiction, truth from trope, when discussing such a controversial figure?
We’ll examine these questions and the last days of dynastic rule as we explore the gardens and pavilions of Beijing’s famous Summer Palace.
Spaces for this walk are limited and registration is required. Details about the walk including meeting points and payment information will be sent in your reservation confirmation.
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