Nu Shu is a type of language that was/is used exclusively by women. Still considered mysterious – especially by men. There is a Case File on p. 367 in the WRT text called “Women’s Writing, Women’s Religiosity, and Popular Religion in China.” Please read this short piece as well and discuss why women invented and used their own form of language. Answer at least one of the study questions on this Case Study on page 377.
Study Questions
1. Explain in your own words the relationship between popular religion and the major religions of China. Can you use other examples from China or elsewhere to illuminate your argument?
2. Try to imagine a unique form of religion practiced by men in contemporary New York or Beijing. What would it look like?
3. Using nu shu as an example, how can we understand the interplay between religious text, religious belief, and religious practice? What roles do texts play for religious adherents?
*** watch these videos as well
*** LINK TO VIDEO 1https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjeO8LHjpko
*** LINK TO VIDEO 2https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUrjisa-H_s